Is Your 1997 GM Truck or SUV Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with a 1997 Chevy Blazer, GMC Jimmy, or another GM truck from that era, you know they’re built to last. But after more than two decades on the road, the electronic brainโthe Powertrain Control Module (PCM)โcan start to show its age. I’ve seen it hundreds of times in my shop: a customer comes in with a vehicle that’s suddenly stalling at red lights, idling erratically, or refusing to start altogether. The check engine light might be on with codes that don’t make sense, or worse, your scan tool can’t even communicate with the module. These are classic signs of a failing PCM.
The Heart of the Problem: Why 90s PCMs Fail
The PCM in your 1997 GM vehicle is essentially the central computer for the engine and transmission. It lives in a harsh environment under the hood, constantly exposed to engine heat, vibration, and moisture. Over 25+ years, these factors take a toll. Internal solder joints can crack, capacitors can leak, and processing chips can degrade. This leads to intermittent connections and data corruption, causing symptoms like:
- โ Unexplained stalling or shutting off while driving
- โ Rough or unstable idle
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- โ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire
- โ Multiple, unrelated diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- โ A persistent Check Engine Light
- โ Failure to pass an emissions test
- โ Loss of communication with diagnostic scan tools
Expert Pro Tip: Check the Basics First
Before you condemn your PCM, I always tell my customers to do a 10-minute check. A failing PCM can mimic other problems. Grab a multimeter and verify you have solid battery voltage (12.4V+) and clean, tight connections at the battery terminals. Then, locate the PCM (usually in the engine bay on the driver’s side, near the battery or firewall) and inspect the main ground wires connected to the engine block or chassis. A corroded or loose ground is the #1 cause of strange electrical issues on these trucks. If your power and grounds are good and the problems persist, it’s highly likely the PCM itself is the culprit.
The Direct, Programmed Solution
This Powertrain Control Module is the definitive solution for your 1997 GM vehicle. It’s not just a replacement part; it’s a fully prepared component that eliminates the guesswork and extra cost of a dealership visit. We take your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and program the module *before* it ships. This process ensures two critical things:
- It’s an exact match for your vehicle’s specific configuration (engine, transmission, emissions, and options).
- It is loaded with the newest available software updates from General Motors. These updates often contain vital improvements for drivability, fuel economy, and emissions that your original module never had.
This means when you receive the part, it’s ready for a straightforward, plug-and-play installation. No special tools, no dealer appointments for flashingโjust a reliable fix to get you back on the road.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16229684 and 8162296840. It is guaranteed to be the correct fit for the following 1997 vehicles. Simply provide your VIN after purchase, and we’ll handle the rest.
- โ ASTRO 97 (Electronic Control Module; LH front by battery)
- โ BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 97 (Electronic Control Module; 6-262, 4.3L)
- โ BRAVADA 97 (Electronic Control Module; 6-262, 4.3L)
- โ CHEVROLET 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 97 (Electronic Control Module; gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
- โ EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN 97 (Electronic Control Module; gasoline)
- โ GMC 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 97 (Electronic Control Module; gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
- โ ISUZU HOMBRE 97 (Electronic Control Module; 4.3L, 6 cylinder)
- โ S10/S15/SONOMA 97 (Electronic Control Module; 6-262, 4.3L)
- โ SAFARI (GMC) 97 (Electronic Control Module; LH front by battery)
- โ SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN 97 (Electronic Control Module; gasoline)
- โ SUBURBAN 1500/2500 97 (Electronic Control Module; gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
- โ TAHOE 97 (Electronic Control Module; gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
- โ YUKON 97 (Electronic Control Module; gasoline, LH front engine compartment)