Is Your 1996 GM Vehicle Running Poorly?
Are you battling a persistent Check Engine Light, poor fuel economy, or frustrating stalling issues in your 1996 Chevrolet Corsica or another classic GM car? The brain of your vehicle’s engine management system, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), is often the root cause of these complex electronic problems. This is a direct replacement PCM, part number 16211539, professionally programmed with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle. By providing your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), you receive a module that is ready to install, restoring your engine’s performance and reliability.
We had a 1996 Buick Regal come in that had been to three other shops. The owner had replaced the spark plugs, wires, ignition coils, and even the mass airflow sensor chasing a random misfire and stalling problem. No one could figure it out. When we hooked up our scanner, we noticed erratic data from the PCM and communication dropouts. On a hunch, we installed a correctly programmed module. The car immediately fired up and ran perfectly. It was a classic case of a failing computer mimicking sensor issues, costing the owner hundreds in unnecessary parts before finding the real cause.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
A faulty engine computer can cause a wide range of symptoms that can be easily mistaken for other issues. If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a failing PCM could be the culprit:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling or cutting out unexpectedly while driving or at idle.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Rough idling, hesitation, or engine misfires.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions tests.
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but will not fire up.
- ✔ Intermittent electrical issues that seem to have no other cause.
The Simple Solution for Your 1996 Corsica PCM
Avoid the high costs and scheduling hassles of a dealership visit. Our service provides a straightforward and effective solution. We take the guesswork out of the repair by programming this replacement 1996 Corsica PCM to your specific vehicle using your VIN. This critical step ensures that all the unique software parameters for your engine, transmission, and emissions systems are correctly loaded, making for a seamless installation. This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 88963800, 16211539, and 16231853.
How The Process Works:
- ✔ Confirm Fitment: Verify that your vehicle is on the compatibility list and that your original module carries one of the compatible service numbers.
- ✔ Place Your Order: Add this item to your cart and complete the checkout process.
- ✔ Provide Your VIN: After your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. This is essential for the programming service.
- ✔ Install: Installation is typically straightforward. Disconnect the vehicle’s battery, remove the old PCM, install the newly programmed one, and reconnect the battery. In some cases, a simple security relearn procedure may be necessary, which can be done without special tools.
Broad Compatibility Across the 1996 GM Lineup
While this is the correct computer for a 1996 Corsica with the 3.1L engine, its application is much wider. This electronic control module fits a large number of popular 1996 GM vehicles equipped with the 3.1L, 3.4L, and 3.8L engines. Please see the detailed fitment list below:
- ACHIEVA 96 (3.1L)
- BERETTA 96 (3.1L)
- BONNEVILLE 96 (3.8L)
- CENTURY 96 (3.1L)
- CIERA 96 (3.1L)
- CORSICA 96 (3.1L)
- CUTLASS 96 (3.1L & 3.4L)
- EIGHTY EIGHT 96 (3.8L)
- GRAND AM 96 (3.1L)
- GRAND PRIX 96
- LESABRE 96 (3.8L)
- LUMINA CAR 96 (3.1L & 3.4L)
- LUMINA VAN 96 (3.4L)
- MONTE CARLO 96
- NINETY EIGHT 96 (3.8L)
- PARK AVENUE 96 (3.8L)
- REGAL 96
- RIVIERA 96 (3.8L)
- SILHOUETTE 96 (3.4L)
- SKYLARK 96 (3.1L)
- TRANS SPORT 96 (3.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a VIN and why do you need it?
The VIN is your vehicle’s unique 17-digit identification number. We use it to access the exact GM software and calibrations for your car’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures the replacement PCM works perfectly.
Is this part difficult to install?
For most DIY mechanics, the installation is straightforward. It involves disconnecting the battery and swapping the module. The most important part is ensuring the connectors are clean and seated properly. A security relearn may be needed, which typically involves a sequence of key turns.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to an internal failure of the original PCM, this replacement will solve the problem. However, if the light is on because of a faulty sensor or other component, that issue will still need to be addressed.
What if my original part number is different?
This module, 16211539, is also a direct replacement for service numbers 88963800 and 16231853. If your number is not one of these, please contact us to ensure you are ordering the correct part for your vehicle.
Do I need to send my old computer back?
No core charge is required for this part. You do not need to return your old, faulty module to us.