Restore Your GM’s Drivability and Performance
Is your 1996 Buick Riviera, or another GM vehicle from that era, giving you headaches? Unexplained stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, rough idling, or erratic transmission shifting can often be traced back to one critical component: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer for your engine and transmission, when the PCM starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects your vehicle’s reliability, fuel economy, and overall safety.
This listing is for a high-quality replacement PCM, service number 16211539, which is a direct replacement for part numbers 16231853 and 88963800. The most significant benefit we offer is that this module arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We flash it with the latest official GM software updates, ensuring it communicates perfectly with all other modules in your car. This eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming, making this a straightforward and cost-effective solution for both professional mechanics and dedicated DIYers.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 1996 Buick LeSabre with the 3.8L V6 that came into my shop with a baffling intermittent no-start condition. The owner had already replaced the battery, starter, and crank sensor. It would run fine for days, then refuse to start, with no spark and no fuel pump prime. After hours of chasing wires, we noticed the problem only happened after the car sat in the sun. We directed a heat gun at the PCM, and sure enough, the no-start condition appeared instantly. A cooling spray on the module, and it fired right up. The internal circuits were failing under heat—a classic, yet often overlooked, PCM failure. Replacing the module with a properly programmed unit like this one solved the problem for good.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your engine computer could be the culprit:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with internal module error codes (e.g., P0601, P0602, P0605).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling, especially when the engine is warm.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Poor engine performance, hesitation, or misfiring.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
Your Plug-and-Play 1996 Riviera PCM Solution
Replacing the 1996 Riviera PCM doesn’t have to be a complex job. Because we handle the programming, the physical installation is very manageable. Getting your vehicle back to factory-spec operation is our top priority. Simply provide us with your VIN during checkout, and we’ll handle the rest, ensuring your new PCM is ready for installation right out of the box.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most 1996 GM cars like the Riviera, the PCM is located in the engine bay, typically inside the air filter housing for protection and cooling.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harnesses from the old PCM. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- ✔ Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM in the same location.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Securely plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Final Steps: Your vehicle may require a security relearn procedure, which can typically be done by cycling the key. Start the engine and let it idle to confirm proper operation.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module is guaranteed to be compatible with a wide range of 1996 General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and engine below. This part is a direct replacement for service numbers 16211539, 88963800, and 16231853.
- ✔ 1996 Achieva (3.1L)
- ✔ 1996 Beretta (3.1L)
- ✔ 1996 Bonneville (3.8L)
- ✔ 1996 Century (3.1L)
- ✔ 1996 Ciera (3.1L)
- ✔ 1996 Corsica (3.1L)
- ✔ 1996 Cutlass (3.1L & 3.4L)
- ✔ 1996 Eighty Eight (3.8L)
- ✔ 1996 Grand Am (3.1L)
- ✔ 1996 Grand Prix
- ✔ 1996 LeSabre (3.8L)
- ✔ 1996 Lumina Car (3.1L & 3.4L)
- ✔ 1996 Lumina Van (3.4L)
- ✔ 1996 Monte Carlo
- ✔ 1996 Ninety Eight (3.8L)
- ✔ 1996 Park Avenue (3.8L)
- ✔ 1996 Regal
- ✔ 1996 Riviera (3.8L)
- ✔ 1996 Silhouette (3.4L)
- ✔ 1996 Skylark (3.1L)
- ✔ 1996 Trans Sport (3.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This PCM comes fully programmed for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This makes it a plug-and-play solution, saving you a trip to the dealer.
Where do I provide my VIN?
You can add your 17-digit VIN in the notes section during checkout or send it to us in a message after your purchase. We cannot ship the module until we have your VIN.
Will this fix my Check Engine Light?
If the Check Engine Light is caused by a faulty PCM (e.g., DTC P0601), then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, you should always diagnose the codes first to ensure the PCM is the actual problem.
Is this a used part?
This is a high-quality, tested, and verified replacement part that meets or exceeds original equipment specifications. It is flashed with the latest GM software for optimal performance.
What if my part number is slightly different?
This module, service number 16211539, is a direct, compatible replacement for service numbers 88963800 and 16231853. As long as your vehicle is on the fitment list, it will work correctly.