Is Your 1996 GM Vehicle Running Rough, Stalling, or Showing a Check Engine Light?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless mid-90s GM cars and vans sidelined by a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The symptoms can be frustrating and often intermittent: one day it’s a hard start, the next it’s a random stall at a stoplight, poor fuel economy, or a failed emissions test. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a solution to get your trusted vehicle running reliably again. This is a direct-fit, VIN-programmed PCM, part number 16211539, designed to restore your vehicle’s performance and dependability.
The Brain of Your Vehicle, Programmed Specifically For You
This isn’t a generic, one-size-fits-all module. Before we ship it, we flash it with the latest official GM software updates using the unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from your car. This critical step ensures that the PCM communicates perfectly with your engine, transmission, and all related sensors, just as it did from the factory. It’s the key to a successful and lasting repair, eliminating the guesswork and the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
Expert Pro Tip: Check the Ignition Control Module (ICM)
I’ve seen this dozens of times in my shop, especially on the 3.8L V6 engines. A customer will replace a failed PCM, only to have the new one fail a few weeks later. The hidden culprit is often a failing Ignition Control Module located under the coil packs. When the ICM shorts out, it can send a voltage spike back to the PCM, damaging the internal drivers. Before installing your new PCM, it’s a smart, inexpensive preventative measure to inspect or replace the ICM to protect your investment and ensure a one-time fix.
Solving Common 1996 Riviera PCM Failures
A faulty engine computer can manifest in numerous ways. This replacement module is the definitive solution for issues such as:
- âś” Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated for internal module faults.
- âś” Vehicle will not start or has intermittent starting problems.
- âś” Rough idling, stalling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- âś” Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- âś” Failure to pass state emissions testing.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
We’ve made this repair as straightforward as possible. Since the module arrives programmed to your VIN, you won’t need any specialized scan tools. Just follow these simple steps:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these vehicles, the PCM is located in the air filter box. You may need to remove the air filter assembly for access.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. Inspect the pins on the harness side for any corrosion or damage and clean them if necessary.
- Swap the Module: Remove the old PCM from its mounting bracket and install the new one.
- Reconnect Everything: Securely plug the wiring harnesses into your new PCM and reinstall the air filter assembly.
- Final Step: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle is now ready to start.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This PCM, part number 16211539, is a direct replacement for service numbers 88963800, 16211539, and 16231853. It is guaranteed to fit and function correctly in the following 1996 model year vehicles:
- Buick: Century (3.1L), LeSabre (3.8L), Park Avenue (3.8L), Regal, Riviera (3.8L), Skylark (3.1L)
- Chevrolet: Beretta (3.1L), Corsica (3.1L), Lumina Car (3.1L & 3.4L), Lumina Van (3.4L), Monte Carlo
- Oldsmobile: Achieva (3.1L), Ciera (3.1L), Cutlass (3.1L & 3.4L), Eighty Eight (3.8L), Ninety Eight (3.8L), Silhouette (3.4L)
- Pontiac: Bonneville (3.8L), Grand Am (3.1L), Grand Prix, Trans Sport (3.4L)
After your purchase, simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN, and we’ll handle the programming. Get your car back on the road with confidence. Order today!