Restore Your Vehicle’s Performance and Reliability
Are you experiencing frustrating and unpredictable issues with your 1999 Buick Century or another compatible GM vehicle? Symptoms like a persistent check engine light, erratic engine behavior, poor shifting, or even a no-start condition can often be traced back to a single, critical component: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer for your engine and transmission, a failing PCM can disrupt your vehicle’s entire operation. This genuine GM PCM, service number 09361735, is the definitive solution to get your car running smoothly and efficiently again.
This isn’t just a part pulled from a shelf. Each module is meticulously programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This crucial step ensures that the computer has the correct software and calibrations for your engine, transmission, and factory options. We install the latest available updates from General Motors, which can resolve common drivability issues and improve overall performance. By matching the PCM to your VIN, we eliminate the guesswork and costly trips to the dealership for programming.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I once had a 2000 Impala with the 3.8L V6 come into the shop on a tow truck. The customer said it would crank but never start, and the security light was flashing wildly. They had already replaced the battery and the ignition switch to no avail. After hooking up the scan tool, I found a “No Communication with PCM” error. Instead of spending hours tracing wires, I checked the power and ground feeds to the computer, which were solid. This pointed to an internal failure in the PCM itself. We ordered a VIN-programmed module just like this one. Once it arrived, the physical swap took about 15 minutes. After performing the simple 30-minute security relearn procedure right in the bay, the car fired up on the first try and ran perfectly. The customer was thrilled to avoid a massive diagnostic bill and a long wait at the dealer.
Is Your Powertrain Control Module Failing?
A faulty engine computer can manifest in numerous ways, often mimicking other problems. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a failing PCM could be the culprit:
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The light is illuminated with codes related to internal module failure, memory errors, or communication faults (U-codes).
- ✔ Engine Performance Issues: Unexplained stalling, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, or engine misfires that don’t resolve with new spark plugs or coils.
- ✔ Transmission Problems: Harsh, delayed, or erratic shifting between gears, or the transmission getting stuck in one gear (limp mode).
- ✔ No-Start Condition: The engine will crank over but refuses to start, often accompanied by a lack of spark or fuel injector pulse.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: A sudden and significant drop in your vehicle’s gas mileage without any change in driving habits.
- ✔ Failed Emissions Test: Inability to pass a smog check due to monitor readiness issues or persistent trouble codes.
Your Plug-and-Play 1999 Century PCM Solution
Replacing the brain of your vehicle can seem daunting, but our process makes it simple. This is a tested, functional computer sourced from a salvaged vehicle, providing OEM reliability at a fraction of the cost of a new unit. The real value is in our VIN programming service. A PCM from a junkyard won’t work in your car without being programmed, a service that dealerships can charge hundreds for. We handle that for you. When you receive your part, it’s ready for installation. In most cases, the only additional step is a security relearn procedure (for the VATS or Passlock anti-theft system), which you can typically perform yourself without any special tools. This saves you time, money, and the headache of coordinating with a repair shop for programming.
Wide-Ranging GM Compatibility
While this is a perfect fit for the 1999 Buick Century, service number 09361735 was used across a wide array of popular GM vehicles from the era. It is a compatible Electronic Control Module for models such as:
- 1999-2000 Buick LeSabre & Park Avenue
- 1999 Buick Regal & Riviera
- 1999-2000 Chevrolet Impala, Lumina & Monte Carlo
- 1999 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight, Cutlass & Intrigue
- 1999-2000 Pontiac Bonneville & Grand Prix
- 1999 Chevrolet Venture, Oldsmobile Silhouette, Pontiac Montana & Trans Sport
Please verify that your original module’s part number is 09361735 to ensure perfect compatibility. After purchase, simply provide us with your VIN, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is VIN programming?
VIN programming is the process of loading your vehicle’s specific software and calibration files onto the replacement PCM. This information is tied to your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and tells the computer about your car’s engine, transmission, tire size, and other options. Without the correct programming, the vehicle will not start or run properly.
Do I need to do anything after installing this PCM?
Yes, in most cases you will need to perform a security relearn procedure. This syncs the replacement PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system (VATS/Passlock). This procedure typically involves cycling the ignition key and can be done by the vehicle owner in about 30 minutes without special tools. We can provide instructions for this simple process.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, used OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part that has been sourced from a salvaged vehicle. Each unit is inspected and tested to ensure it is fully functional before being programmed and shipped.
Where can I find my VIN?
Your 17-digit VIN can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on the vehicle itself. Look for a small metal plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard visible through the windshield, or on the sticker inside the driver’s door jamb.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty PCM, then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, it’s crucial to properly diagnose the vehicle first. This PCM will not fix problems related to other failed components like sensors or wiring.