Restore Peak Performance to Your 2008 Savana 3500 Van
Is your workhorse Savana 3500 suddenly unreliable? Experiencing frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, poor fuel mileage, stalling, or a complete no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As the central computer for your engine, its proper function is non-negotiable for performance and dependability. When it falters, it can bring your work or travels to a grinding halt. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s lost time and money.
This is a direct-fit, VIN-programmed replacement ECM, designed to get your vehicle running right without a costly trip to the dealership. We take the guesswork out of the repair. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash the module with the latest, most stable GM factory software specific to your van. This ensures all engine, fuel, and transmission parameters are set perfectly, restoring the smooth operation you depend on. This is the most efficient way to replace your faulty 2008 Savana 3500 Engine Control Module and get back on the road with confidence.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Failure Signs?
- â Check Engine Light is on with no obvious cause
- â Engine cranks but refuses to start
- â Stalling, stumbling, or hesitation during acceleration
- â Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- â Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- â Communication error codes stored, such as P0601, P0606, or U0100
- â Intermittent issues that get worse as the engine warms up
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2008 Express vanâa sibling to the Savanaâthat came into my bay with a truly frustrating intermittent no-start. The owner, a contractor, was losing jobs because of it. We’d test it, and it would start fine ten times in a row. He’d take it, and an hour later, it would leave him stranded. After checking all the usual suspects (fuel pressure, crank sensor, wiring), I noticed the problem only happened after the van had been sitting in the sun. On a hunch, I used a heat gun to carefully warm the ECM. Sure enough, after a few minutes, it refused to start. The internal circuits were failing under thermal stress. A new, properly programmed ECM like this one solved the problem permanently. Itâs a perfect example of how a failing 2008 Savana 3500 Engine Control Module can cause phantom issues that are impossible to pin down without experience.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- â Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- â Locate the ECM: On the 2008 Savana/Express vans, the ECM is typically located in the engine compartment, on the driver’s side, often near the rear of the engine bay.
- â Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves. There are usually two or three large connectors.
- â Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- â Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed ECM into place. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- â Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- â Perform Security Relearn: A key or security relearn procedure is often required. A common GM method is to turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (without starting) for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle 3 times. The vehicle should then start and run normally.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module is a guaranteed fit for the following vehicles and options. It is a direct replacement for part numbers 12612384, 12622141, and 12617568. Please confirm your vehicle is on this list before ordering.
- AVALANCHE 1500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
- AURA 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.5L
- CAPRICE 11 Electronic Control Module; ID 12612384
- CORVETTE 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment)
- CORVETTE 09 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), Z06
- CTS 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), (3.6L), VIN 7 (8th digit), ID 12612384
- EQUINOX 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.4L
- ESCALADE 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
- ESCALADE ESV 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
- ESCALADE EXT 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
- EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 5.3L
- EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
- EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
- G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.5L
- G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.9L
- HUMMER H2 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
- IMPALA 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L or 3.9L
- MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; classic style (emblem in grille), 3.5L
- MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 3.5L
- SAVANA 1500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 5.3L
- SAVANA 2500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
- SAVANA 3500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
- SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o 4.3L
- SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
- SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
- SIERRA DENALI 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
- SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o 4.3L
- SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
- SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
- SUBURBAN 1500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
- SUBURBAN 2500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
- TAHOE 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option
- TORRENT 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.4L
- VUE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; 3.5L
- YUKON 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option
- YUKON XL 1500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
- YUKON XL 2500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this module programmed?
No. We handle the programming for you before shipment. Simply provide your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN when you order, and it will arrive ready to install with the latest GM software.
What is the security relearn procedure?
This is a simple process that syncs the new ECM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system. It typically involves cycling the ignition key and waiting, as described in the installation steps. It requires no special tools.
Where is the ECM located on my 2008 Savana 3500?
On the 2008 gasoline Savana vans, the ECM is located in the engine bay, on the driver’s side (LH) towards the firewall.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module will correct issues directly caused by a faulty ECM, such as internal processor errors (P0606), memory faults (P0601), and related running problems. It’s a critical part of the diagnostic process, but please ensure other components like sensors and wiring have been checked.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested recycled OEM part. It has been verified to meet or exceed original factory specifications and is programmed with the newest software available for your VIN.