Is Your 1996 Buick Century Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with a persistent check engine light, unexplained stalling, rough idling, or a sudden drop in fuel economy, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the brain of your vehicle’s engine, when the PCM starts to fail, it can create a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a solution to get your reliable GM vehicle back on the road.
An Expert’s Real-World Diagnostic Story
“A customer’s 1996 Chevy S10 with the 2.2L engine came into my shop last month. It had the classic symptoms: intermittent stalling at red lights and a check engine light that came and went. The owner had already replaced the fuel filter and spark plugs with no luck. After connecting my scanner, I saw erratic data from multiple sensors, a tell-tale sign of a confused computer. The root cause wasn’t the sensors themselves, but the PCM processing the information incorrectlyโa common failure I’ve diagnosed on dozens of these mid-90s GM platforms. We swapped in a correctly programmed PCM, and the truck has been running perfectly ever since. This is the exact fix for that scenario.”
The Simple, Reliable Solution: A Programmed PCM
Forget about expensive dealership visits and the hassle of finding a shop that can flash an old computer. We take the guesswork out of the repair. This PCM is professionally programmed with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. It arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation.
- โ VIN-Programmed for You: We flash the module with your vehicle’s exact VIN, ensuring it communicates perfectly with your engine and transmission.
- โ Resolves Common Failures: Directly addresses issues like harsh shifting, no-start conditions, inaccurate gauge readings, and persistent diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
- โ No Extra Programming Needed: This is a true plug-and-play solution. Install it, and you’re ready to go.
- โ Broad GM Compatibility: This unit is a direct replacement for part numbers 16215830 and 16231851.
Fixing Your 1996 Century PCM Issues at Home
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to complete this job. With basic hand tools, you can have your vehicle running smoothly in under an hour. This is one of the most impactful DIY repairs you can perform.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On most 1996 GM models like the Century or Cavalier, the PCM is typically found in the engine bay, on the passenger side firewall, or under the passenger side of the dashboard.
- Disconnect the Old Module: Carefully unbolt and unplug the wiring harness connectors from your old PCM. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or bent pins before proceeding.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM in the same location. Securely plug in the wiring harnesses until they click into place.
- Reconnect and Start: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position for 10 seconds before starting the engine to allow the systems to initialize. Your check engine light should be off, and your vehicle should run smoothly.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This Electronic Control Module is guaranteed to be the correct part for the following 1996 GM models. Please verify your engine size to ensure compatibility.
- Buick Century: 1996 (with 2.2L 4-Cyl Engine)
- Buick Skylark: 1996 (with 2.4L 4-Cyl Engine)
- Chevrolet Beretta: 1996 (with 2.2L 4-Cyl Engine)
- Chevrolet Cavalier: 1996
- Chevrolet Corsica: 1996 (with 2.2L 4-Cyl Engine)
- Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma: 1996 (with 2.2L 4-Cyl Engine)
- Oldsmobile Achieva: 1996 (with 2.4L 4-Cyl Engine)
- Oldsmobile Ciera: 1996 (with 2.2L 4-Cyl Engine)
- Pontiac Grand Am: 1996 (with 2.4L 4-Cyl Engine)
- Pontiac Sunfire: 1996
IMPORTANT: After your purchase, please send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we have this information to program the module correctly.