Is Your Truck or Car Running Rough? Let’s Get It Fixed.
If you’re dealing with a frustrating no-start condition, erratic engine behavior, a check engine light that won’t quit, or poor fuel mileage in your Isuzu Hombre, S10, Cavalier, or other compatible GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. Over my 20+ years as a diagnostician, I’ve seen hundreds of these specific modules cause headaches for owners. The constant heat cycles in the engine bay, especially on models where it’s mounted on the firewall, eventually take a toll on the internal electronics. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a solution to get your vehicle running reliably again.
This isn’t just any replacement module. This is a direct-fit PCM, part number 16245305, that we professionally program to your vehicle’s exact Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures 100% compatibility and loads the latest, most stable software updates from General Motors. This means you’re getting a module that corrects known factory bugs and optimizes performance right out of the boxโsomething a generic, unprogrammed part from a local store simply can’t offer.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM:
- โ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various communication or sensor codes.
- โ Engine stalls unexpectedly or refuses to start at all.
- โ Rough idling, hesitation, or misfires.
- โ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- โ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- โ Failure to pass an emissions test.
Expert Pro Tip: Pre-Installation Connector Check
Before you even think about plugging in your new PCM, take a bright flashlight and carefully inspect the vehicle’s wiring harness connectors. Over two decades, moisture and dirt can cause subtle corrosion on the pins, which can lead to poor connections and even damage your new module. I recommend using a dedicated electronics contact cleaner spray and a small nylon brush to gently scrub the female terminals on the harness side. Ensuring a clean, tight connection is one of the most important steps for a successful and long-lasting repair.
Diagnosing and Replacing Your 1996-2000 Isuzu Hombre PCM
A faulty PCM can mimic many other issues, but if you’ve already checked your basics like battery, alternator, and fuel delivery, the computer is the next logical step. This module is the brain of your engine, controlling everything from fuel injection to spark timing. When it fails, the symptoms can be widespread and confusing. Our VIN-programmed module eliminates the guesswork and the need for expensive dealership programming.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
Installing your new PCM is a straightforward process you can do in your own driveway. Just follow these simple steps:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for any residual power to discharge.
- Locate the Module: On most S10/Sonoma and Cavalier/Sunfire models, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the passenger side firewall or inner fender. On some sedans like the Grand Am or Malibu, it may be under the dash.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect them for any damage or corrosion as mentioned in our pro tip.
- Remove Old PCM: Unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install New PCM: Bolt your new, VIN-programmed module into place.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly seat the wiring harness connectors onto the new PCM until they click into place. Reconnect your negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Your vehicle will perform a self-learning process. The check engine light should be off, and your vehicle should be running smoothly.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This module, programmed correctly to your VIN, is a direct replacement for service numbers 16228016, 8162280160, and 16245305. It is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. Please provide your VIN upon purchase to ensure we send you a perfectly matched unit for one of the following applications:
- Isuzu Hombre: 1996, 1997-1998 (2.2L), 1999-2000 (2.2L)
- Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma: 1997-1998 (2.2L), 1999 (2.2L), 2000 (2.2L, VIN 4)
- Chevrolet Cavalier: 1997-1999
- Pontiac Sunfire: 1997-1999
- Chevrolet Malibu: 1997-1998 (2.4L), 1999 (2.4L)
- Pontiac Grand Am: 1997-1998 (2.4L), 1999 (2.4L, ID 16228016)
- Buick Skylark: 1997-1998 (2.4L)
- Oldsmobile Achieva: 1997-1998 (2.4L)
After your purchase, please send us your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we have this information to program the module specifically for your vehicle.