Is Your GM Vehicle Running Rough? The PCM Might Be the Culprit.
If your 1998 Buick Century, Grand Prix, or another GM vehicle from that era is suddenly giving you headachesโlike refusing to start, shifting gears erratically, or displaying a stubborn Check Engine Lightโthe problem often points to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a mechanic with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen this exact scenario play out hundreds of times. The PCM is the brain of your vehicle, and when it starts to malfunction, it can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating issues.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the guesswork and dealer expense out of the equation. By providing us with your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, we program this module with the latest GM factory software specifically for your car. It arrives at your door ready to be installed, no further programming required.
Common Symptoms of a Failing GM PCM:
Over the years, I’ve diagnosed countless faulty PCMs. The symptoms are often mistaken for bad sensors or transmission problems. Hereโs what to look for:
- โ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various codes
- โ Engine cranks but refuses to start (no-start condition)
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- โ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- โ Engine stalling or running poorly
- โ Loss of communication with a diagnostic scan tool
Expert Pro Tip from a 20-Year Veteran
Before you install your new PCM, take a close look at the wiring harness connectors. Over decades, moisture can cause green or white corrosion to form on the pins, leading to a poor connection that can mimic the symptoms of a failed module. I always recommend using a small nylon brush and a quality electrical contact cleaner to scrub the vehicle’s harness connectors clean. This five-minute step ensures a perfect connection and prevents future headaches.
Easy Installation for Your 1998 Century Powertrain Control Module
You don’t need to be a master technician to replace this module. Our VIN programming makes this a straightforward, plug-and-play process. Follow these simple steps to get your car back in top shape:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter box, or under the passenger side of the dashboard.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the old PCM and remove it.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed PCM into place. Firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal. In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and is compatible with several original service numbers. Please verify your part number against this list to ensure a perfect match.
Replaces Part Numbers: 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, 9366314
Vehicle Fitment List:
This module fits the following vehicles (please verify your specific engine and options):
- Alero 99: (3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440)
- Achieva 98: (6-191, 3.1L)
- Bonneville 98
- Camaro 98: (6-231, 3.8L)
- Century 98: (6-191, 3.1L)
- Cutlass 98-99: (Verify ID for 99 models)
- Eighty Eight 98
- Firebird 98: (6-231, 3.8L)
- Grand Am 98: (6-191, 3.1L)
- Grand Am 99: (3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9366314, 9357034, 9347440)
- Grand Prix 98
- Intrigue 98
- LeSabre 98: (6-231, 3.8L)
- Lumina Car 98
- Malibu 98: (6-191, 3.1L)
- Monte Carlo 98
- Park Avenue 98: (6-231, 3.8L)
- Regal 98
- Riviera 98: (6-231, 3.8L)
- Silhouette 98
- Skylark 98: (6-191, 3.1L)
- Trans Sport 98
- Venture 98: (6-207, 3.4L)