Is Your 1996 Sunfire Running Rough? You’ve Found the Solution.
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. If your 1996 Pontiac Sunfire, Cavalier, or S10 is experiencing bizarre issues like stalling for no reason, harsh shifting, a persistent check engine light, or even a complete no-start condition, the PCM is often the culprit. It’s the brain of your vehicle, and when it starts to fail, the symptoms can be confusing and lead to costly, incorrect repairs.
Expert Pro Tip: Before you install your new PCM, take a moment to inspect and clean the electrical harness connectors. Over the years, corrosion and dirt can build up on the pins, causing poor connections that mimic PCM failure. Use a dedicated electronics cleaner and a small brush to gently scrub the terminals. This simple five-minute step ensures a solid connection and prevents future headaches.
The Easiest Way to Restore Your Engine’s Performance
Forget about expensive dealership visits and the hassle of finding a shop with the right programming equipment for a vintage vehicle. This PCM is the direct, straightforward solution you need. We take all the guesswork out of the process. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and our technicians will program the module with the latest official GM software updates specific to your car. When it arrives, it’s ready to install right out of the box.
Key Benefits of This Programmed 1996 Sunfire PCM:
- โ Plug & Drive: Arrives pre-programmed to your exact VIN. No additional programming is required.
- โ Solves Common Issues: A direct fix for no-start conditions, poor fuel economy, erratic engine behavior, and false sensor codes.
- โ Latest GM Software: Flashed with the most current calibrations from General Motors for improved performance and reliability.
- โ Saves Time & Money: Skip the diagnostic fees and programming charges at a dealership or repair shop.
- โ Broad Compatibility: A single, reliable solution for a wide range of 1996 GM vehicles.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
Installing this module is a job most DIY mechanics can handle in their own driveway with basic tools. Follow these simple steps to get your car back on the road:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often near the firewall or air filter housing.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the electrical wiring harnesses from the old module. Inspect them for any damage or corrosion as mentioned in our pro tip.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the original PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in place, securely reconnect the wiring harnesses, and then re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes. Your check engine light should be off, and the engine should run smoothly.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This Electronic Control Module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16231851 and 16215830. It is guaranteed to fit and function correctly in the following 1996 models:
- 1996 Buick Skylark (with 2.4L 4-Cylinder)
- 1996 Buick Century (with 2.2L 4-Cylinder)
- 1996 Chevrolet Beretta (with 2.2L 4-Cylinder)
- 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
- 1996 Chevrolet Corsica (with 2.2L 4-Cylinder)
- 1996 Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma (with 2.2L 4-Cylinder)
- 1996 Oldsmobile Achieva (with 2.4L 4-Cylinder)
- 1996 Oldsmobile Ciera (with 2.2L 4-Cylinder)
- 1996 Pontiac Grand Am (with 2.4L 4-Cylinder)
- 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
Don’t let a faulty computer keep you off the road. Order today and restore your vehicle’s reliability with a professionally programmed, ready-to-install PCM.