Restore Peak Performance to Your 2016 GMC Savana 3500
Is your work van or passenger van running poorly, stalling, or showing a persistent check engine light? The Engine Control Module (ECM), often called the vehicle’s brain, is the central command for all critical engine and transmission functions. When it begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and difficult-to-diagnose issues, costing you time and money. This direct replacement Engine Control Module, part number 12643636, is the definitive solution to get your 2016 Savana 3500 back in reliable working order.
This isn’t just a part in a box. We provide a crucial service that makes your repair job significantly easier. Before this module ships, we use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) you provide to program it with the latest, most up-to-date factory software directly from GM. This ensures that the module is perfectly matched to your vehicle’s specific options and systems, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready for installation.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2016 Express van (the Savana’s cousin) come into the shop with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights. No specific codes were stored, just a few random communication errors. The owner had already replaced the throttle body and a couple of sensors with no luck. After hours of chasing wires, we monitored the live data stream and noticed the ECM would momentarily drop offline right before the stall. A new, properly programmed ECM fixed the issue on the first try. These intermittent electrical faults are a classic sign of a failing computer, and starting with a reliable, correctly programmed 2016 Savana 3500 ECM saves immense diagnostic headaches.
Common Symptoms of a Failing ECM
- âś” Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear, often with communication codes (like U0100).
- âś” Unexplained drop in fuel mileage.
- âś” Engine misfires, stumbles, or runs rough.
- âś” Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- âś” Vehicle cranks but refuses to start (no-start condition).
- âś” Intermittent stalling for no apparent reason.
- âś” Inability for diagnostic scan tools to communicate with the engine computer.
Your Plug-and-Play Solution: The 2016 Savana 3500 ECM
Choosing this module means you’re getting more than just a replacement part. You’re getting a comprehensive solution. By handling the programming in-house before shipment, we save you hundreds of dollars in dealer fees and eliminate the logistical challenge of getting your vehicle to a service center. The software we install is the most current version available from General Motors, which often includes critical updates to improve engine efficiency, transmission logic, and overall vehicle reliability that your old module may be missing. This is a vital step in ensuring your van operates exactly as the engineers intended.
This module is a direct fit for a wide range of GM vehicles beyond the Savana, including the Chevrolet Express, Silverado & Sierra HD pickups, Chevrolet Cruze, Sonic, and Buick Encore. This broad application is a testament to its proven reliability across millions of vehicles on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN is like its fingerprint. It tells us everything about the options it was built with, including the engine, transmission, emissions system, and more. We use the VIN to load the precise, correct GM software onto the ECM so that it works seamlessly with your specific vehicle configuration right out of the box.
Is this part difficult to install?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, the physical installation is straightforward. On the 2016 Savana, the ECM is located in the left-hand rear of the engine compartment. The process involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connectors, unbolting the old module, and installing the new one. The most critical part is ensuring the battery is disconnected to prevent electrical damage.
Will I need to do anything after installing the module?
In many cases, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, also known as a Passlock or anti-theft relearn. This procedure typically involves a sequence of turning the key on and off and can be done in your driveway without any special tools. This syncs the new ECM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Instructions for this are widely available online or in service manuals.
How can I be sure my ECM is the problem?
While the symptoms listed above are strong indicators, it’s always best to have a proper diagnosis performed. A qualified technician can rule out other potential causes like wiring issues, sensor failures, or power/ground problems. If other components have been checked and the issue points to the computer, replacing the ECM is the next logical step.
Is this compatible with other part numbers?
Yes, this ECM is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 12668866, 12668994, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, and 12692200. If your original module has any of these numbers, this part will work for your vehicle.