SB-10043859-6465

Bulletin No.: 12009
Date: February 2012

Recall Bulletin

PRODUCT EMISSION RECALL
SUBJECT:

Incorrect Engine Control Module Calibration

MODELS:

2008 Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe
2008 GMC Sierra, Yukon
Equipped with a 4.8L/6.0L Engine (LY2/L76) and Previously Serviced

CONDITION
General Motors has decided to conduct a Voluntary Emission Recall involving certain 2008
model year Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, and Tahoe vehicles, and GMC Sierra
and Yukon vehicles, equipped with a 4.8L/6.0L engine (LY2/L76). This affects only those
vehicles that were serviced between September 24, 2011, and December 15, 2011, and
received an incorrect calibration in the Engine Control Module (ECM). The incorrect service
calibration included incorrect spark calibrations relating to knock detection and could result in
reduced engine power under certain high load conditions, such as when towing or hill
climbing.
CORRECTION
Dealers are to reprogram the ECM.
VEHICLES INVOLVED
Involved are certain 2008 model year Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe;
GMC Sierra and Yukon vehicles equipped with 4.8L/6.0L engine (LY2/L76) and previously
serviced.
Important: Dealers are to confirm vehicle eligibility prior to beginning repairs by using the
Required Field Actions section in the Global Warranty system. Not all vehicles
may be involved.
For dealers with involved vehicles, a listing with involved vehicles containing the complete
vehicle identification number, customer name, and address information has been prepared
and will be provided to US and Canadian dealers through the GM GlobalConnect Recall
Reports, or sent directly to export dealers. Dealers will not have a report available if they have
no involved vehicles currently assigned.

Copyright 2012 General Motors. All Rights Reserved .

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February 2012

Bulletin No.: 12009

The listing may contain customer names and addresses obtained from Motor Vehicle
Registration Records. The use of such motor vehicle registration data for any purpose other
than follow-up necessary to complete this recall is a violation of law in several
states/provinces/countries. Accordingly, you are urged to limit the use of this report to the
follow-up necessary to complete this recall.
PART INFORMATION
No parts are required for this recall.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
Do not attempt to order the calibration number from GM Customer Care and Aftersales. The
calibration numbers required for this service procedure are programmed into control modules
via a Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI) or Tech 2 with the calibration update. When using a
MDI or Tech 2 for reprogramming, ensure that it is updated with the latest software version.
Use TIS2WEB on or after 01/25/12 to obtain the calibration. If you cannot access the
calibration, call the Techline Customer Support Center and it will be provided.
For step-by-step programming instructions, please refer to SI and the Techline Information
System (TIS) terminal.
1.

Verify that there is a battery charge of 12 to 15 volts. The battery must be able to
maintain a charge during programming. Only use an approved Midtronics® PSC 550
Battery Maintainer (SPS Programming Support Tool EL-49642) or equivalent to
maintain proper battery voltage during programming.

2.

Reprogram the engine control module (ECM). Refer to SI and Service Programming
System (SPS) documentation for programming instructions, if required.
2.1

Connect the MDI or Tech 2 to the vehicle.

2.2

Select J2534 MDI or J2534 Tech 2 and Reprogram ECU from the Select
Diagnostic Tool and Programming Process screen.

2.3

Select ECM Engine Control Module from the Supported Controllers screen.

2.4

Follow the on-screen instructions.

3.

Clear all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

4.

California, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont vehicles only:
Install a Recall Identification Label. Also, for California vehicles complete a “Proof of
Correction” certificate upon recall completion.

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February 2012

Bulletin No.: 12009

RECALL IDENTIFICATION LABEL California/Connecticut/Maryland/Massachusetts/Maine/
Vermont Vehicles Only
Place a Recall Identification Label on each vehicle corrected in accordance with the
instructions outlined in this Product Recall Bulletin. Each label provides a space to include
the recall number and the five-digit dealer code of the dealer performing the recall service.
This information may be inserted with a ballpoint pen.
Put the Recall Identification Label on a clean and dry surface of the
radiator core support in an area that will be visible to people servicing
the vehicle.
When installing the Recall Identification Label, be sure to pull the tab to
allow adhesion of the clear protective covering. Additional Recall
Identification Labels for US dealers can be obtained from Dealer Support
Materials
by ordering
on
the
web
from
DWD Store,
www.gmglobalconnect.com, and then click on the DWD Store link.
Request Item Number S-1015 when ordering.

GM
RECALL

12009
COMPLETED
DEALER CODE

99-999
DO N OT REMOVE

COURTESY TRANSPORTATION – For US and Canada
The General Motors Courtesy Transportation program is intended to minimize customer
inconvenience when a vehicle requires a repair that is covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranties. The availability of courtesy transportation to customers whose vehicles are
within the warranty coverage period and involved in a product program is very important in
maintaining customer satisfaction. Dealers are to ensure that these customers understand
that shuttle service or some other form of courtesy transportation is available and will be
provided at no charge. Dealers should refer to the General Motors Service Policies and
Procedures Manual for Courtesy Transportation guidelines.
WARRANTY TRANSACTION INFORMATION
Submit a transaction using the table below.
Labor
Code
V2530

Description
Reprogram ECM

Labor
Time
0.4

CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION – For US and Canada
General Motors will notify customers of this recall on their vehicle (see copy of customer letter
included with this bulletin).
In order to ensure full protection under the emission warranty, and the right to participate in
future recalls, the customer notification letter recommends that customers have their vehicles
serviced as soon as possible. It also advises that failure to do so could legally be determined
to be lack of proper maintenance. The vehicle may fail a state or local emission inspection
test if the recall work is not completed.

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February 2012

Bulletin No.: 12009

CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION - For Export
Letters will be sent to known owners of record located within areas covered by the US
National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. For owners outside these areas, dealers
should notify customers using the attached sample letter.
In order to ensure full protection under the emission warranty, and the right to participate in
future recalls, the customer notification letter recommends that customers have their vehicles
serviced as soon as possible. It also advises that failure to do so could legally be determined
to be lack of proper maintenance. The vehicle may fail a state or local emission inspection
test if the recall work is not completed.
DEALER RECALL RESPONSIBILITY
All unsold new vehicles in dealers' possession and subject to this recall must be held and
inspected/repaired per the service procedure of this recall bulletin before customers take
possession of these vehicles.
Dealers are to service all vehicles subject to this recall at no charge to customers, regardless
of mileage, age of vehicle, or ownership, from this time forward.
Customers who have recently purchased vehicles sold from your vehicle inventory, and for
which there is no customer information indicated on the dealer listing, are to be contacted by
the dealer. Arrangements are to be made to make the required correction according to the
instructions contained in this bulletin. A copy of the customer letter is provided in this bulletin
for your use in contacting customers. Recall follow-up cards should not be used for this
purpose, since the customer may not as yet have received the notification letter.
In summary, whenever a vehicle subject to this recall enters your vehicle inventory, or is in
your dealership for service in the future, you must take the steps necessary to be sure the
recall correction has been made before selling or releasing the vehicle.
***THE FOLLOWING 2 PARAGRAPHS ARE NOT FOR CANADA OR EXPORT***
When a California emissions recall is completed by a GM dealer, the dealer must provide the
vehicle owner a “Proof of Correction Certificate” which the owner may need to present to the
California Department Of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when renewing their vehicle registration.
Without this correction certificate, the owner may be unable to renew their vehicle
registration.
Additional Certificates can be obtained, at no charge, from Dealer Support Materials by
ordering on the web from the DWD Store, www.gmdealerworld.com, and then click on the
DWD Store link; request GM Item Number 1825 when ordering.

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of
conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained
technicians have the tools, equipment, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT
assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your dealer for information on whether your
vehicle may benefit from the information.

We Support
Voluntary
Technician
Certification

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February 2012

Bulletin No.: 12009
February 2012

Dear General Motors Customer:
This notice is sent to inform you that General Motors is conducting a voluntary emission recall
that includes your vehicle.
Reason For This Recall: Your 2008 model year Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban,
or Tahoe vehicle; GMC Sierra or Yukon vehicle may have received an incorrect Engine
Control Module (ECM) calibration when it was previously serviced. The incorrect calibration
could result in reduced engine power under certain high load conditions, such as towing or
hill climbing.
What Will Be Done: Your GM dealer will reprogram the ECM. This service will be performed
for you at no charge.
What You Should Do: Please contact your GM dealer as soon as possible to arrange a
service date. Instructions for making this correction have been sent to your dealer. Please
ask your dealer if you wish to know how much time will be needed to schedule, process, and
repair your vehicle.
If you have any questions or need any assistance, just contact your dealer or the appropriate
Customer Assistance Center at the number listed below.
Division

Number

Chevrolet
GMC
Guam
Puerto Rico – English
Puerto Rico – Español
Virgin Islands

1-800-222-1020
1-800-462-8782
65-6267-1752
1-800-496-9992
1-800-496-9993
1-800-496-9994

Text Telephones
(TTY)
1-800-833-2438
1-888-889-2438

Courtesy Transportation: If your vehicle is within the New Vehicle Limited Warranty, your
dealer may provide you with shuttle service or some other form of courtesy transportation
while your vehicle is at the dealership for this repair. Please refer to your Owner Manual and
your dealer for details on Courtesy Transportation.
Emission Law Information: In order to ensure your full protection under the emission
warranty made applicable to your vehicle by state and federal law, and your right to participate
in future recalls, it is recommended that you have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
Failure to do so could legally be determined to be lack of proper maintenance of your vehicle.
Also, your vehicle may fail a state or local emission inspection if this recall is not
accomplished.

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February 2012

Bulletin No.: 12009

IMPORTANT MESSAGE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) requires vehicle emission recalls be completed
prior to California registration renewal. Uncorrected emission recalls will result in the inability
to renew your California vehicle registration.
At the time of emission recall completion, your California dealer will issue a "Proof of
Correction Certificate". Keep this certificate and, if required, present it to the Department of
Motor Vehicles when renewing your California registration as proof of recall completion.
We are sorry to cause you this inconvenience; however, we have taken this action in the
interest of your continued satisfaction with our products.
Jim Moloney
General Director,
Customer and Relationship Services
12009