Is Your GM Vehicle Stalling, Shifting Erratically, or Showing a Check Engine Light?
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen countless mid-90s GM vehicles like the Skylark, Cavalier, and S10 come into the shop with baffling issues. The owner reports intermittent stalling, hard starting, poor fuel mileage, or a transmission that just won’t shift right. More often than not, the root cause isn’t a bad sensor or a faulty fuel pumpโit’s the brain of the operation: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution. We take a quality-tested PCM, part number 16215830, and professionally program it with the latest official GM software updates specifically for your vehicle’s VIN. This critical step ensures all the engine and transmission parameters are perfectly matched to your car or truck, eliminating the guesswork and the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
The Right Solution for Your 1996 Skylark PCM Failure
A failing PCM can turn a reliable car into a constant headache. By replacing your old, worn-out computer, you’re restoring the precise control your vehicle needs to run efficiently and dependably. This module is the key to resolving those frustrating, hard-to-diagnose electronic gremlins.
- โ VIN-Programmed for You: We handle all the programming before we ship. Just provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout, and it arrives ready to install.
- โ Latest GM Software: Your module comes loaded with the newest software updates from General Motors, which often correct factory bugs and improve performance and efficiency.
- โ Solves Common Issues: Directly addresses symptoms like check engine lights, no-start conditions, erratic idle, harsh shifting, and poor fuel economy.
- โ Broad Compatibility: A direct replacement for part numbers 16215830 and 16231851, fitting a wide range of popular 1996 GM models.
Expert Pro Tip: Check Your Grounds First
Before you install your new PCM, take 10 minutes to inspect and clean the main engine-to-chassis ground strap. I’ve seen it countless times in my shop: on these mid-90s GM platforms, a corroded or loose ground causes voltage drops that can perfectly mimic PCM failure. A simple cleaning with a wire brush can save you from misdiagnosing the problem and ensures your new module has a clean electrical foundation to work from.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
You can do this replacement right in your own driveway. Follow these simple steps to get your vehicle back in top shape:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these vehicles (like the Cavalier, Sunfire, and S10), the PCM is located in the engine bay, typically mounted to the firewall or inner fender, sometimes near the air filter box.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install Your New PCM: Secure the new, programmed module in place, then firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses until they click and lock.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition key to the ‘ON’ position (without starting the engine) for 10-15 seconds to allow the system to initialize before starting the vehicle.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This Electronic Control Module is the correct part for the following 1996 models. Please verify your engine size where noted.
- 1996 Buick Skylark (2.4L Engine)
- 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
- 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva (2.4L Engine)
- 1996 Chevrolet Beretta (2.2L Engine)
- 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
- 1996 Oldsmobile Ciera (2.2L Engine)
- 1996 Pontiac Grand Am (2.4L Engine)
- 1996 Chevrolet Corsica (2.2L Engine)
- 1996 Buick Century (2.2L Engine)
- 1996 Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma (2.2L Engine)
Don’t let a faulty computer keep you off the road. Order this pre-programmed 1996 Skylark PCM today and restore your vehicle’s reliability and performance with confidence.