Is Your 1996 GM Vehicle Running Rough, Stalling, or Refusing to Start?
If you’re dealing with frustrating engine problems in your 1996 Buick Century, Chevy Cavalier, or Pontiac Sunfire, the root cause is often the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing PCM can mimic a dozen other issues, leading to wasted time and money on incorrect repairs. When this central computer starts to fail, it can throw your entire engine’s operation into chaos.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM:
- โ Unexplained stalling or cutting out while driving
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- โ A persistent Check Engine Light with no obvious cause
- โ Poor fuel economy and sluggish performance
- โ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire
- โ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
The Direct Solution: A Pre-Programmed 1996 Century PCM
Forget the hassle and high cost of a dealership visit. This Powertrain Control Module is the definitive solution, arriving at your door fully programmed and ready for installation. We use your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This critical step ensures the PCM communicates perfectly with your car’s specific systems, restoring its original performance and reliability.
Expert Pro Tip: Inspect Your Connectors Before Installation
Before you even think about plugging in the new module, take a bright flashlight and carefully inspect the vehicle’s harness connectors. On these mid-90s GM vehicles, I’ve seen countless PCM failures caused by moisture intrusion that leads to green or white corrosion on the pins. This corrosion creates resistance and can damage the new module. Use a small pick and some quality electrical contact cleaner to gently clean every pin and ensure a perfect connection. This five-minute check can save you from a repeat failure.
Simple Plug-and-Play Installation
Installing your replacement PCM is a straightforward process that you can do in your own driveway. No advanced programming tools are required.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often near the firewall or air filter housing.
- Disconnect the Harness: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical connectors from the old module.
- Swap the Modules: Unbolt the old PCM and secure the new one in its place.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the harness connectors into your new, pre-programmed PCM and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘On’ position for 10-15 minutes.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This module, part number 16215830 (also fits 16231851), is a direct replacement for a wide range of 1996 General Motors vehicles. Please provide your VIN upon purchase to ensure perfect programming for your specific model:
- ACHIEVA 96 (Electronic Control Module; 4-146 2.4L)
- BERETTA 96 (Electronic Control Module; 4-134 2.2L)
- CAVALIER 96 (Electronic Control Module)
- CENTURY 96 (Electronic Control Module; 4-134 2.2L)
- CIERA 96 (Electronic Control Module; 4-134 2.2L)
- CORSICA 96 (Electronic Control Module; 4-134 2.2L)
- GRAND AM 96 (Electronic Control Module; 4-146 2.4L)
- S10/S15/SONOMA 96 (Electronic Control Module; 4-134 2.2L)
- SKYLARK 96 (Electronic Control Module; 4-146 2.4L)
- SUNFIRE 96 (Electronic Control Module)