Is Your Work Van Unreliable? Get Back on the Road, Fast.
For a business owner, a 2016 Chevy Express 3500 that’s down isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s lost revenue. When the Engine Control Module (ECM), the computer brain of your vehicle, starts to fail, it can cause a host of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. You’re likely experiencing issues that are costing you time and money, making you question if you can even make it to the next job site.
Common Symptoms of a Failing ECM:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with multiple, seemingly unrelated trouble codes.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Stalling, hesitation, or rough idling for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy, costing you more at the pump.
- ✔ Transmission shifting issues or communication errors with other modules.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with diagnostic scan tools.
Real-World Diagnosis: The Phantom Problem
“A customer’s 2016 Express 3500 came in last week with these exact symptoms. It was randomly stalling and throwing codes for the transmission, ABS, and fuel system. The previous shop had already replaced a few sensors with no luck. After confirming power and grounds were good, we diagnosed a failing ECM. The internal processor was failing intermittently, sending corrupt data across the network. A pre-programmed module like this one was the direct solution, and we had his van running perfectly and back in his fleet the very next day.”
The Plug-and-Play Solution: A Programmed 2016 Express 3500 ECM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a genuine GM Engine Control Module and flash it with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. By programming it to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before we ship, we eliminate the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a module that is truly plug-and-play.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
Installing your new ECM is a straightforward process. For the Express 3500 Van, the module is typically located in the left-hand rear of the engine compartment.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the ECM: Find the module in the LH rear engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old ECM. Inspect them for any dirt or corrosion.
- Remove Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket.
- Install New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed ECM into place.
- Reconnect Everything: Securely plug the wiring harnesses into the new module and reconnect your battery terminal.
- Start the Engine: Your vehicle will now start and run with the correct software. You may need to perform a security relearn procedure, which can typically be done without special tools (instructions available online or in your service manual).
Expert Pro Tip: Check Your Connections
Before you swap the module, take a wire brush to the ECM connector pins and the main chassis ground connection. On work vans like the Express, I’ve seen corrosion build up on these points, causing intermittent power loss that perfectly mimics a bad ECM. A few minutes of cleaning can save you a headache and ensure your new module has a perfect connection.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers. It is guaranteed to function correctly if your vehicle is listed below and uses one of the following part numbers:
- Interchangeable Part Numbers: 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, 12692200
- Fits a Wide Range of Models Including: Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana (2500/3500), Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra (2500/3500), Chevrolet Cruze, Sonic, Trax, Volt, Spark, ELR, Suburban 3500, and Buick Encore. Please verify your specific model and options in the fitment chart.
Important: After you complete your purchase, please send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your part until we have programmed it.