Restore Peak Performance to Your 2016 Express 3500 Van
Is your workhorse van suddenly unreliable? Dealing with a persistent Check Engine Light, frustrating stalls, or a no-start condition that’s costing you time and money? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can bring a perfectly good vehicle to a dead stop. The ECM is the brain of your engine, and when it falters, it can create a cascade of confusing and costly problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a direct hit to your productivity. That’s why we offer this fully programmed, VIN-matched 2016 Express 3500 ECM as a direct, reliable solution.
Forget the expensive trip to the dealership and the days of vehicle downtime. We take the complexity out of the repair. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our experts will program this module with the very latest GM factory software updates specific to your van. This ensures optimal fuel efficiency, emissions compliance, and engine performance right out of the box. This is the same process a dealer would perform, but delivered directly to your door, ready for a straightforward installation.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Gremlin
A local delivery company brought in their 2016 Express 3500 with a problem that was driving their driver nuts. The van would randomly lose power and sometimes stall at intersections, but with no consistent Check Engine Light codes. They had already replaced the fuel pump and a few sensors with no luck. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner and monitoring live data, I noticed erratic voltage readings from the ECM’s 5-volt reference circuit, but only intermittently. On a hunch, I gently tapped the ECM housing with a screwdriver handle, and the engine immediately stumbled. The issue was an internal failure in the module’s circuit board—a common problem I’ve seen in hundreds of these work vans due to heat cycles and vibration. We replaced it with a pre-programmed unit like this one, and the van was back in reliable service the same afternoon. It’s often the central component, not the sensors, causing the most elusive issues.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty module is a likely culprit:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with communication-related codes (e.g., U0100) or internal processor fault codes (e.g., P0601, P0606).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ The engine stalls, stumbles, or runs rough for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifts harshly or at the wrong times.
- ✔ Loss of power or poor acceleration.
- ✔ Problems with other electronic systems, as the ECM communicates with dozens of other modules.
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
Installing your new 2016 Express 3500 ECM is a manageable job for a DIYer or any professional technician. Follow these general steps to get back on the road quickly.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2016 Express Van, the ECM is typically located in the engine compartment, on the driver’s side near the firewall or inner fender.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Do not force them. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it with the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new ECM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step (If Required): In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary for the vehicle to start. This can often be done without special tools by cycling the key in the ignition. Consult your vehicle’s service information for specific instructions.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Engine Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 12668991 and is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. It also interchanges with part numbers 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, and 12692200. Please confirm your vehicle is on the list below:
SAVANA 2500/3500 VAN (2016) – 4.8L, 6.0L
SILVERADO 2500/3500 PICKUP (2012-2016) – 6.0L
SIERRA 2500/3500 PICKUP (2012-2016) – 6.0L
SIERRA DENALI 2500/3500 (2012-2016) – 6.0L
SUBURBAN 3500 (2016)
CRUZE (2012-2016) – Various options
SONIC (2012-2016) – Various options
TRAX (2013-2016)
ENCORE (2013-2016) – 1.4L
VOLT (2011-2015)
ELR (2014-2016)
SPARK (2014-2015) – Gasoline
Note: This is a partial list. Always verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure perfect fitment.
How does the VIN programming work?
How does the VIN programming work?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our technicians use this VIN to access the latest official GM software for your specific vehicle and load it onto the ECM before shipping. This ensures it works correctly with your engine, transmission, and options.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, because we program it to your VIN, it is designed to be a direct-install part. In some GM vehicles, an additional anti-theft or security relearn procedure may be required after installation. This procedure is simple and typically involves a sequence of key cycles, not requiring a special scan tool.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module will correct issues directly caused by a faulty ECM, such as internal processor errors (P0606), no-start conditions, and erratic engine behavior. While the ECM is a common point of failure, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the ECM is the root cause of your vehicle’s issues before ordering.
Do I need to send my old ECM back?
No core charge or return is required for this part. You can keep or responsibly dispose of your old module.