Is Your GM Vehicle Running Rough, Stalling, or Refusing to Start?
If you’re dealing with frustrating and unpredictable issues in your 1996 GM car or van, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen how a faulty PCM can create a cascade of problems that seem unrelated, from a persistent Check Engine Light to erratic transmission shifting and poor fuel economy. It’s the central computer of your vehicle, and when it fails, nothing works right.
A Real-World Scenario
“A customer’s ’96 LeSabre came in last week with a no-start condition that stumped two other shops. They had replaced the fuel pump and crank sensor to no avail. After confirming power and ground to the PCM, my diagnostic scanner couldn’t communicate with the module at all. It was completely unresponsive. A new, programmed PCM like this one, part number 16211539, had the engine firing up on the first crank and running smoothly in under 15 minutes. It’s a common failure point I’ve diagnosed hundreds of times on these 3.1L, 3.4L, and 3.8L engines.”
The Direct Solution for Your 1996 Bonneville PCM Problems
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a genuine OEM module, part number 16211539, and flash it with the latest official GM software calibration specifically for your vehicle. All you need to do is provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during checkout. This critical step ensures that the module communicates perfectly with your engine, transmission, and all related systems right out of the box.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various codes
- ✔ Engine cranks but will not start
- ✔ Stalling, hesitation, or rough idling
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage
- ✔ No communication with diagnostic scan tools
- ✔ False sensor codes that return even after replacing the sensor
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
One of the biggest advantages of our service is that it completely bypasses the need for expensive dealership programming or specialized tools. Your new PCM arrives ready for installation. Follow these simple steps to get your vehicle back in top condition.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electronic repair.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these 1996 GM models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter housing or mounted to the firewall.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect the pins on the harness side for any signs of corrosion or damage. Clean them with a dedicated electronic cleaner if necessary.
- Remove Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install New Module: Mount the new, programmed PCM in the same location and securely fasten it.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect your vehicle’s negative battery terminal.
- Final Check: Start the vehicle. It may take a moment to idle smoothly as it completes its initial learning cycle. The Check Engine Light should be off, and the vehicle should run properly.
Part Number Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for the following GM service and part numbers. Verifying your original part number is the best way to ensure compatibility.
- 16211539 (Primary)
- 88963800
- 16231853
TRANS SPORT 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-207, 3.4L)
GRAND PRIX 96 Electronic Control Module
LUMINA CAR 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
SKYLARK 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
ACHIEVA 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
SILHOUETTE 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-207, 3.4L)
LUMINA VAN 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-207, 3.4L)
BERETTA 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
CUTLASS 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-207 (3.4L)
BONNEVILLE 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
EIGHTY EIGHT 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
LUMINA CAR 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-207 (3.4L)
MONTE CARLO 96 Electronic Control Module
NINETY EIGHT 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
RIVIERA 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
CUTLASS 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
CIERA 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
CENTURY 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
LESABRE 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
GRAND AM 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
PARK AVENUE 96 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
CORSICA 96 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)