Is Your 1996 GM Vehicle Running Rough, Stalling, or Refusing to Start?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless 1996 GM cars and vans come into the shop with frustrating, intermittent problems. The owner has often replaced sensors, checked the fuel pump, and is at their wit’s end. More often than not, the culprit is a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer that manages everything from fuel delivery to transmission shifting. When it starts to go, it can create a cascade of confusing symptoms.
“A customer’s ’96 Lumina van came in last week with a complaint of harsh shifting and occasional stalling at red lights. They were convinced the transmission was shot. After my scan tool showed erratic data from the PCM and no specific transmission codes, we swapped in a pre-programmed module like this one. The van immediately ran and shifted perfectly. It saved them from a thousand-dollar transmission job they didn’t need. It’s a classic case of a faulty computer mimicking a major mechanical failure.”
The Direct Solution: A VIN-Programmed 1996 Regal PCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a quality-tested PCM (Part #16211539) and flash it with the latest official GM software calibration specifically for your vehicle. All we need is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout. This ensures perfect communication between the engine, transmission, and all related systems, restoring the performance and reliability you expect.
Symptoms This Module Can Resolve:
- โ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL)
- โ Engine stalling or cutting out unexpectedly
- โ Hard starting or no-start conditions
- โ Poor fuel economy
- โ Erratic or harsh automatic transmission shifting
- โ Failed emissions testing
- โ Communication errors with scan tools
Simple, Plug-and-Play Installation
One of the biggest advantages of our service is that this module arrives ready to install. There is no need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You can perform this replacement right in your own driveway with basic hand tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- 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 unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove Old Module: Unbolt the original PCM and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed PCM into place.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses into the new module and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Start the Vehicle: Your vehicle is now ready to run with its new, correctly programmed computer.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This PCM is a direct replacement for the following service part numbers. If your original module has any of these numbers on its label, this part is a 100% compatible fit:
- 88963800
- 16211539
- 16231853
Extensive Vehicle Fitment
This Electronic Control Module is compatible with a wide range of 1996 General Motors vehicles. Please verify your specific model and engine option below: