Restore Your Workhorse Van’s Reliability
Is your 2010-2014 Chevy Express or GMC Savana van suddenly unreliable? A failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can bring your work or daily life to a screeching halt, causing frustrating issues like stalling, poor fuel economy, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a complete no-start condition. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can sideline a perfectly good vehicle. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s lost time and money.
This is your direct-fit, hassle-free solution. We are offering a genuine replacement Engine Control Module, part number 12653246, that arrives at your door fully programmed for your specific vehicle. Simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) after your purchase, and our experts will flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This critical step ensures seamless communication with your van’s other systems and restores its original performance and efficiency. You get to skip the expensive tow to the dealership and the high labor costs for programming. This is the smart, efficient way to get your van back in service.
Is Your Van Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling or rough idling, especially when warm.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel mileage.
- ✔ The Check Engine Light is illuminated with communication or internal processor codes (e.g., P0601, P0606, U0100).
- ✔ Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration.
- ✔ Transmission shifting feels harsh or erratic, as the ECM communicates with the TCM.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Phantom No-Start
I remember a 2012 Express 1500 work van that came into the shop on a flatbed. The owner said it would randomly fail to start, but after sitting for an hour, it would fire right up. There were no consistent codes, just a history of a U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM). After checking all the power and ground circuits to the module—which is always the first step—we found they were solid. On a hunch, we monitored the ECM’s internal temperature data. We discovered the module was overheating internally, causing a temporary shutdown. Replacing the faulty unit with a properly programmed 2010-2014 Express 1500 ECM solved the problem for good. It’s a classic case of how an internal module failure can present as an elusive, intermittent issue.
Plug-and-Play Installation: Get Back on the Road Fast
Installing your new 2010-2014 Express 1500 ECM is a straightforward job for a confident DIYer or any professional mechanic. On the Express and Savana vans, the module is located in the left-hand rear of the engine compartment.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental contact.
- Locate the ECM: Find the module in the LH rear of the engine bay. It will have several large electrical connectors attached.
- Disconnect Wiring: Carefully release the locking tabs on each electrical harness connector and pull them straight out from the module. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware that secures the old ECM to its bracket. Set the old module aside.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in place and tighten the hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: In some cases, a security or crank relearn procedure may be required using a capable scan tool. However, with our VIN-specific programming, the vehicle will often start and run immediately.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module is a guaranteed fit for the following vehicles equipped with the 4.3L V6 engine. It is a direct replacement for service numbers 12635043, 12639471, and 12653246.
- 2010-2014 Chevrolet Express 1500 Van (4.3L)
- 2010-2014 GMC Savana 1500 Van (4.3L)
- 2010-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Pickup (4.3L)
- 2010-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup (4.3L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipping. We flash the module with the latest GM software using the VIN you provide, making it ready for installation right out of the box.
Where do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship the part until we receive this information.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, tested, and verified replacement part that has been programmed to function to OEM specifications. It is guaranteed to restore your vehicle’s performance.
What tools are needed for installation?
Basic hand tools, such as a socket set, are typically all that’s required to physically replace the module. No special programming tools are needed on your end.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module will correct issues directly caused by a faulty ECM, such as internal processor errors (P0601), communication faults, and driver circuit failures. Always ensure a proper diagnosis has been performed to confirm the ECM is the point of failure.