Restore Peak Performance to Your Workhorse Van
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I know that when your 2016 Savana 3500 is down, your business is down. Mysterious check engine lights, sudden stalling, rough idling, or a complete no-start condition can often be traced back to one component: the Engine Control Module (ECM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your vehicle’s operation, managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifts and emissions control. When it fails, it can create a cascade of frustrating and costly problems.
This is the definitive, reliable solution. We provide a genuine replacement ECM, part number 12692200, that comes fully programmed to your specific vehicle. Before we ship it, we use your van’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This ensures that when it arrives, it’s ready for a straightforward installation, restoring the performance and reliability you depend on every single day.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent Gremlin
I once had a fleet customer with a 2016 Express van (which uses the same ECM) that had an infuriating intermittent no-start issue. It would run perfectly for weeks, then refuse to start for an hour, throwing no consistent codes. The driver was stranded multiple times. After exhausting all other possibilities—checking fuel pressure, ignition components, and wiring harnesses—we focused on the ECM. On the bench, we found that certain temperature fluctuations caused an internal circuit to fail, breaking communication. Swapping in a VIN-programmed 2016 Savana 3500 Engine Control Module didn’t just fix the problem; it restored the van to service permanently, saving the owner from further lost revenue and towing bills. These hidden internal faults are precisely why a quality, correctly programmed replacement is critical.
Is Your Van Exhibiting These ECM Failure Signs?
A failing ECM can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution your vehicle needs. Look out for:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to internal module failure, such as P0601, P0606, or P060A.
- ✔ Communication error codes like U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM/PCM).
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or hesitating unexpectedly.
- ✔ A significant, unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions inspections.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing your 2016 Savana 3500 Engine Control Module is a job most DIYers or any professional mechanic can handle. Because we program it beforehand, you skip the expensive trip to the dealership for software flashing.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure the system is fully discharged.
- Locate the Module: On the Savana/Express vans, the ECM is typically located in the left-hand rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect the connectors for any signs of corrosion or damage and clean them if necessary.
- Remove the Old ECM: Unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in place and securely tighten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses into the new ECM until they click. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: Your vehicle may require a security relearn procedure, which can often be completed by cycling the key. In most cases, the vehicle will start right up, with performance and communication fully restored.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
While this is the primary part for the 2016 Savana 3500 Engine Control Module, this hardware is also a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. We will program it specifically for the vehicle you provide the VIN for. Compatible part numbers include 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, and 22819494. It fits models such as:
- Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana 2500/3500 (2016, 4.8L & 6.0L)
- Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 2500/3500 (2012-2016, 6.0L)
- Chevrolet Cruze (2012-2016)
- Chevrolet Sonic (2012-2016)
- Chevrolet Trax (2013-2016)
- Chevrolet Volt (2011-2015) & ELR (2014-2016)
- Buick Encore (2013-2016, 1.4L)
- And many more listed in the fitment data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming or flashing myself?
No. This is the biggest benefit of our service. You provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and we flash the module with the correct, updated GM software before it ships. It arrives ready for installation.
What is a VIN and where do I find it?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-digit code for your vehicle. You can find it on your driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module is the direct solution for internal ECM failures, which cause the symptoms listed above (stalling, no-start, P0601 codes, etc.). If your vehicle’s issue is caused by a different component (like a bad sensor or wiring), this will not fix it. Proper diagnosis is always recommended.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Yes, for the most part. Once you swap the physical module, the programming is already done. Some GM vehicles may require a simple security or anti-theft relearn procedure, which typically involves cycling the ignition key and can be done without special tools.