Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your Pontiac Sunfire, Chevy Cavalier, or Oldsmobile Alero suffering from perplexing engine issues? A faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central brain of your vehicle’s engine management system, is often the culprit behind problems like a persistent check engine light, stalling, rough idling, or a no-start condition. This genuine, used GM PCM, part number 09356249, is the reliable and cost-effective solution to get your car running smoothly again.
The PCM is responsible for calculating and managing critical functions like fuel injection timing, spark advance, and transmission shift points. When it fails, the entire powertrain can behave erratically. Replacing it with a generic, unprogrammed module from a local auto parts store often leads to more headaches, as it won’t have the specific software your vehicle needs. We eliminate that problem by programming this module specifically to your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your car’s other systems, just like the original unit from the factory.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We once had a 2001 Grand Am with the 2.4L engine come in with an intermittent stalling issue that no one could figure out. The owner had already replaced the crankshaft position sensor, the ignition control module, and a set of spark plugs, but the car would still randomly die at stoplights. After hooking up our diagnostic scanner and monitoring live data, we noticed the PCM was momentarily losing its 5-volt reference signal to the sensors right before a stall. The issue wasn’t the sensors themselves, but the internal circuitry of the PCM failing under heat. We installed one of these VIN-programmed PCMs, performed the security relearn, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where chasing parts can cost more than correctly diagnosing a faulty engine computer from the start.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear
- ✔ Engine stalling or shutting off while driving
- ✔ No-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire
- ✔ Poor engine performance, hesitation, or misfiring
- ✔ Drastically reduced fuel economy
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test
Why Choose Our 2000-2002 Sunfire PCM?
This isn’t just a used part pulled from a shelf. It’s a complete, plug-and-play solution. We take a fully tested, functional PCM from a salvaged vehicle and flash it with the latest GM-certified software for your exact make and model. By providing your VIN upon purchase, you guarantee that the module you receive is 100% compatible with your vehicle’s specific configuration, including engine type, transmission, and emissions equipment. This saves you a costly trip to the dealership for programming and ensures a seamless installation process.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for the following part numbers:
- 09356249
- 16268310
- 9392873
It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- 2000-2001 Chevrolet Cavalier (Electronic Control Module; RH front engine compartment)
- 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (Electronic Control Module; RH front engine compartment, ID 9356249)
- 2000-2001 Pontiac Grand Am (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash, 2.4L)
- 2000-2001 Pontiac Sunfire (Electronic Control Module; RH front engine compartment)
- 2002 Pontiac Sunfire (Electronic Control Module; RH rear engine compartment, ID 9356249)
- 2000-2001 Oldsmobile Alero (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash, 2.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this module ready to install when I receive it?
Yes! This PCM is programmed to the VIN you provide, so it is ready for installation. In most cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a VATS relearn) which can be done without any special tools and typically takes about 30 minutes. We can provide instructions for this process.
How do I provide my vehicle’s VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you can send us a message with your 17-digit VIN. You can also add it as a note during the checkout process. We cannot ship the part until we have your VIN to program it correctly.
What if my original part number isn’t an exact match?
This module replaces several part numbers, including 09356249, 16268310, and 9392873. As long as your vehicle is on the fitment list and your original module has one of these numbers, this part will work perfectly once programmed to your VIN.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, used OEM part that has been sourced from a salvaged vehicle. Each unit is thoroughly inspected and tested to ensure it is fully functional before being programmed and shipped.
Where is the PCM located on my vehicle?
On the Sunfire and Cavalier, it’s typically in the right-hand (passenger side) front of the engine compartment. On the Grand Am and Alero, it’s usually located in the left-hand (driver side) center dash area. Always disconnect the battery before attempting to remove or install the module.