Is Your Sierra Denali Stalling or Refusing to Start? The Culprit Might Be Hiding in Plain Sight.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM trucks and SUVs roll into the bay with frustrating, intermittent issues: one day they run fine, the next they’re dead on the side of the road. A common, yet often overlooked, cause is a failing Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM). This small but critical component regulates the voltage sent to your fuel pump, ensuring your engine gets the precise amount of fuel it needs. When it fails, it can cause everything from poor performance and hesitation to a complete no-start condition, leaving you stranded.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a genuine GM-spec FPCM and program it with the latest factory software updates specifically for your vehicle’s VIN. This eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a reliable part that restores proper fuel pressure and engine performance right out of the box. For anyone tackling this job, from the seasoned pro to the weekend DIYer, this is the most efficient way to solve the problem correctly the first time.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Machine
A customer brought in his ’08 Escalade with a complaint that baffled two other shops: it would randomly stall at stoplights, but only when the weather was hot. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a history log of a U0109 (Lost Communication with FPCM). We checked wiring and fuel pressure, which seemed fine in the cool morning air. I suspected the FPCM was failing under heat soak. We mounted a new, pre-programmed module and let the truck idle for an hour in the sun. The stalling issue was completely gone. The original FPCM’s internal electronics were breaking down when they got hot, a classic failure I’ve seen dozens of times on these platforms.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A failing FPCM can mimic other fuel system problems. Here are the most common signs I see in the shop that point directly to this module:
- ✔ Engine cranks but will not start
- ✔ Stalling, especially under load or when coming to a stop
- ✔ Rough idling or engine hesitation upon acceleration
- ✔ Reduced engine power and poor fuel economy
- ✔ Check Engine Light with codes like P069E, P0230, or U0109
Your Straightforward Guide to a 2008-2009 Sierra Denali FPCM Swap
Replacing the FPCM is a manageable job for most DIYers. On most GM trucks and SUVs from this era, it’s located on the driver-side frame rail, near the spare tire.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the Module: Find the FPCM mounted to the frame rail. It’s a small, finned aluminum box with electrical connectors. It may be necessary to lower the spare tire for better access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully press the release tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out. Then, remove the bolts or nuts holding the module to the frame.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed FPCM into place. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle is now ready to start. No further programming is required.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. It is compatible with part numbers 13501024, 15213110, 20759945, 20850907, 25785013, 25854536, 25866052, and 25967325. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below.
- ACADIA 2009
- AVALANCHE 1500 2008-2009
- CANYON 2009
- COLORADO 2009
- ENCLAVE 2009
- ESCALADE & ESV & EXT 2008-2009
- EXPRESS 1500 VAN 2008-2009
- HUMMER H2 2008-2009
- HUMMER H3 2009
- OUTLOOK 2009
- SAVANA 1500 VAN 2008-2009
- SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 2007 (New Body Style) & 2008-2009
- SIERRA DENALI 2008-2009
- SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 2007 (New Body Style) & 2008-2009
- SUBURBAN 1500 2008-2009
- TAHOE 2008-2009
- TRAVERSE 2009
- VUE 2008-2009
- YUKON & YUKON XL 1500 2008-2009
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming after I install this?
No. We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before we ship it. It is a true plug-and-play installation, with no dealer visit required.
Where do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the part until we receive your VIN.
What happens if I install this without it being programmed?
An unprogrammed FPCM will not communicate correctly with your vehicle’s other computers. This will typically result in a no-start condition and set communication fault codes.
Is this the same as a fuel pump driver module?
Yes, the terms Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM), Fuel System Control Module (FSCM), and Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) are often used interchangeably for this component.
How do I know my old FPCM is actually bad?
Common symptoms include stalling, no-start, and a Check Engine Light with codes like P069E or U0109. A technician can also check for proper voltage output from the module to the fuel pump as a definitive test.