Restore Peak Performance to Your Workhorse Van
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I know that when your 2016 Savana 2500 is down, your business is down. Intermittent stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a van that just won’t start can be incredibly frustrating. Often, the culprit is a failing Engine Control Module (ECM), the brain of your vehicle’s powertrain. This isn’t just another part; it’s the central command for your engine’s fuel delivery, ignition timing, and transmission shifting. When it falters, everything falters.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution: a genuine GM Engine Control Module, part number 12663405, professionally programmed to your specific vehicle. Forget about expensive towing fees and long waits at the dealership. Simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) after purchase, and we’ll flash the module with the latest factory software from GM. This ensures it’s 100% plug-and-play, ready for installation right out of the box. This is the same service a dealer provides, but delivered directly to your door.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
I once had a 2016 Express van—the Savana’s cousin—in my bay with a maddeningly intermittent no-start condition. The owner had replaced the battery, starter, and fuel pump. All the usual suspects. Scans showed random communication loss codes (U0100) that would disappear. After hours of tracing wires, I hooked up a scope to the ECM’s power and ground feeds. During a key cycle, I saw a momentary voltage drop right at the module’s internal processor. The ECM was failing internally, but only under specific conditions. Replacing it with a pre-programmed unit like this one solved the problem instantly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most complex symptoms have a simple, core cause.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty module could be the root cause. This is especially true if you see diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0606, or U0100.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on or flashing
- ✔ Vehicle will not start or is very difficult to start
- ✔ Rough idling or stalling
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Engine misfires or loss of power
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 2016 Savana 2500 Engine Control Module is a job most DIYers or any professional mechanic can handle. Following these steps ensures a smooth process.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2016 Savana/Express vans, the ECM is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need it for the new installation.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it.
- 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 CASE relearn procedure may be required with a capable scan tool. However, with our VIN programming, the vehicle will often start and run immediately.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 12663405 and other interchangeable numbers. It is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to confirm fitment.
Compatible Part Numbers: 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, 12692200
Fits Select Models Including:
- ✔ 2016 Savana / Express 2500 & 3500 Vans (4.8L, 6.0L)
- ✔ 2012-2016 Silverado / Sierra 2500 & 3500 Pickups (6.0L)
- ✔ 2011-2015 Chevrolet Volt
- ✔ 2012-2016 Chevrolet Sonic (1.4L)
- ✔ 2012-2016 Chevrolet Cruze (1.4L / Gasoline)
- ✔ 2013-2016 Buick Encore (1.4L)
- ✔ 2013-2016 Chevrolet Trax
- ✔ And many more. Please check the detailed fitment list or contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) allows us to program the Engine Control Module with the exact software and calibrations for your vehicle’s specific options, engine, and transmission. This ensures perfect compatibility and performance without needing a trip to the dealer.
Is any additional programming required after installation?
In most cases, no. Our programming service makes this a plug-and-play part. However, on some GM vehicles, a security relearn or Crankshaft Variation (CASE) relearn may be needed, which can be performed with most professional-grade scan tools.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested used OEM part that has been programmed with the latest software for your vehicle, ensuring reliability and proper function.
Will this fix my Check Engine Light?
If the Check Engine Light is caused by an internal failure of the ECM (common codes include P0601-P0606), then this part is the correct fix. It’s crucial to properly diagnose the vehicle first, as other sensors or wiring issues can also trigger the light.
What is your warranty policy?
We stand by our parts and programming. This module comes with a standard warranty covering defects in the part and our programming service. Please see our warranty page for full details.