Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Workhorse
Is your 2008 Savana 1500 Van running rough, refusing to start, or throwing baffling check engine light codes? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I know how frustrating a down vehicle can be, especially when it’s your primary work tool. The Engine Control Module (ECM), or PCM, is the brain of your vehicle, managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifts. When it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose. This is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running reliably again.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
I remember a 2008 Express vanânearly identical to the Savanaâthat came into my bay. The owner, a plumber, was losing business because his van would randomly refuse to start. No crank, no click, nothing. An hour later, it would fire right up. We checked the battery, starter, and ignition switchâall were fine. After connecting my scan tool, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the ECM. We swapped in a new module, and the problem vanished. Internal circuit board failure in the original ECM was causing the thermal-related intermittent fault. For that business owner, a reliable start was everything, and this part provided the fix he needed.
Why Choose Our Pre-Programmed ECM?
The biggest hurdle in replacing an ECM has always been the expensive and time-consuming programming required at a dealership. We eliminate that step completely. When you purchase this module, we flash it with the latest official GM software updates specific to your vehicle’s VIN. This isn’t just a convenience; it ensures your engine and transmission operate with the most current calibrations for efficiency and performance. Your new 2008 Savana 1500 ECM arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you hundreds in dealer fees and vehicle downtime.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- â Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, P0606 (Internal Control Module Failure) or U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM).
- â The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- â Poor or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- â A significant drop in fuel economy.
- â Stalling, rough idling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- â Communication issues with diagnostic scan tools.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- â Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- â Locate the ECM: On your 2008 Savana 1500 Van, the ECM is located in the left-hand (driver’s side) rear of the engine compartment.
- â Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once unplugged, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- â Install the New Module: Bolt the new ECM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- â Reconnect and Start: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may require a security relearn procedure, which can typically be done without special tools (instructions are widely available online or in your service manual). Start the engine and check for proper operation.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 12612384, is a direct replacement for part numbers 12622141 and 12617568. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles with the specified options:
- 2008-2009 EQUINOX (3.4L)
- 2008-2009 TORRENT (3.4L)
- 2008-2009 VUE (3.5L)
- 2008 AURA (3.5L)
- 2008 AVALANCHE 1500
- 2011 CAPRICE (ID 12612384)
- 2008 CORVETTE
- 2009 CORVETTE (Z06)
- 2008 CTS (3.6L, VIN 7, ID 12612384)
- 2008 ESCALADE, ESV, EXT
- 2008 EXPRESS 1500 VAN (5.3L)
- 2008 EXPRESS 2500/3500 VAN (Gasoline)
- 2008 G6 (3.5L or 3.9L)
- 2008 HUMMER H2
- 2008 IMPALA (3.5L or 3.9L)
- 2008 MALIBU (3.5L, Classic or New Style)
- 2008 SAVANA 1500 VAN (5.3L)
- 2008 SAVANA 2500/3500 VAN (Gasoline)
- 2008 SIERRA 1500 PICKUP (w/o 4.3L)
- 2008 SIERRA 2500/3500 PICKUP (6.0L)
- 2008 SIERRA DENALI
- 2008 SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP (w/o 4.3L)
- 2008 SILVERADO 2500/3500 PICKUP (6.0L)
- 2008 SUBURBAN 1500/2500
- 2008 TAHOE (w/o hybrid)
- 2008 YUKON & YUKON XL 1500/2500 (w/o hybrid)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming work?
After you place your order, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). We use this number to access the official GM database and load the exact software and calibrations your vehicle requires. This ensures perfect compatibility.
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