Is Your 1998 Buick Century Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with a persistent check engine light, frustrating no-start conditions, poor fuel mileage, or erratic transmission shifting, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty PCM can turn a reliable car into a source of constant headaches. It’s the brain of your vehicle, and when it starts to fail, the symptoms can be confusing and widespread.
From the Shop Floor: “A customer’s 1998 Buick Century with the 3.1L was towed into my bay last week. It would crank but not start, and the owner had already replaced the battery and spark plugs. My professional scan tool couldn’t establish communication with the engine computer—a tell-tale sign of a dead PCM. After confirming the module had power and ground, we knew the internal processor had failed. We installed a correctly programmed module just like this one, and the car fired right up and ran smoothly. It’s a common failure on these GM vehicles, but thankfully, it’s a straightforward fix with the right part.”
The Direct Solution: A Plug-and-Play PCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take a high-quality, tested PCM and professionally program it with the latest official GM software updates specifically for your vehicle. All we need is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout. This means you get a module that is ready to install right out of the box, restoring your vehicle’s original performance and efficiency.
Key Benefits of This Programmed Module:
- ✔ VIN-Programmed for You: Arrives ready for installation, no expensive dealer programming required.
- ✔ Fixes Common Issues: Solves problems like false sensor codes (especially O2 and crank sensor codes), harsh shifting, engine stumbling, and no-start scenarios.
- ✔ Latest GM Software: We flash the module with the most current calibrations from General Motors, which can resolve factory-known bugs and improve drivability.
- ✔ Broad Compatibility: A direct replacement for multiple service numbers, ensuring a perfect match.
Symptoms of a Failing 1998 Century Powertrain Control Module
A failing computer can manifest in many ways. If your Century is experiencing one or more of the following, a faulty PCM is a likely culprit:
- The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- Check Engine Light is on with various, seemingly unrelated trouble codes.
- Noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- The automatic transmission shifts harshly, late, or not at all.
- Engine stalling or running rough for no apparent reason.
- Loss of communication with a diagnostic scan tool.
Expert Pro Tip: Before installing your new PCM, take a moment to inspect the electrical connector plugs on your car’s wiring harness. Over time, moisture can cause corrosion (a green or white powdery substance) on the pins. This creates poor contact and can cause the same symptoms as a bad module or even damage the new one. Use a small brush and some quality electronic contact cleaner to ensure the connections are pristine before plugging in your new part.
Simple Installation Process
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On the 1998 Century, the PCM is typically located under the dashboard on the passenger side or in the engine bay, often near the air filter housing.
- Disconnect Harnesses: Carefully release the locking tabs and unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Unbolt and Remove: Remove the bolts or screws holding the old PCM in its bracket and take it out.
- Install New Module: Seat the new, programmed PCM in the bracket, secure it with the bolts, and firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses until they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle may require a simple security relearn procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for the following GM service part numbers:
09356741, 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440, 9366314
It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- 1998-1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass
- 1998-1999 Pontiac Grand Am (3.1L, 3.4L)
- 1998 Buick LeSabre (3.8L)
- 1998 Buick Park Avenue (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Venture (3.4L)
- 1999 Oldsmobile Alero (3.4L)
- 1998 Buick Riviera (3.8L)
- 1998 Buick Century (3.1L)
- 1998 Buick Skylark (3.1L)
- 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
- 1998 Oldsmobile Achieva (3.1L)
- 1998 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight
- 1998 Oldsmobile Silhouette
- 1998 Pontiac Firebird (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (3.1L)
- 1998 Oldsmobile Intrigue
- 1998 Chevrolet Lumina
- 1998 Pontiac Bonneville
- 1998 Chevrolet Camaro (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1998 Buick Regal
- 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport
Please provide your VIN upon purchase so we can program the module for your specific vehicle before shipping.