Restore Peak Performance to Your 1997 GM Vehicle
Is your 1997 Buick Skylark, Grand Prix, or Lumina suffering from erratic behavior, a persistent check engine light, or a no-start condition? The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), often called the Engine Control Module (ECM), is the electronic brain of your vehicle. It manages everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting and emissions control. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating problems. This replacement PCM, part number 16217058, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s reliability and drivability.
The Heart of Your Engine’s Operation: A Programmed Solution
Unlike a generic part from a salvage yard, this module isn’t just a piece of hardware. It’s a comprehensive solution. We flash this computer with the latest official GM software updates specifically for your vehicle. By providing us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout, you ensure that the module arrives ready for your specific engine, transmission, and options package. This critical programming step eliminates compatibility issues and ensures the computer communicates flawlessly with all other vehicle systems, just as it did from the factory.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 1997 Buick LeSabre come in that had its owner completely stumped. The car would randomly stall at stoplights, had a rough idle, and the transmission would occasionally shift harshly. The owner had already replaced the spark plugs, wires, and even the fuel pump with no improvement. After hooking up our scanner, we saw some erratic data from the crank sensor, but the sensor itself tested fine. Experience pointed us to the PCM. The internal processors were failing intermittently, sending corrupt signals that mimicked other component failures. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a classic case of the ‘brain’ causing problems that look like they’re coming from somewhere else.
Symptoms of a Failing 1997 Skylark Control Module
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways, often mimicking other sensor or component failures. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your engine computer may be the culprit:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Drastic decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire.
- ✔ Failure to communicate with a diagnostic scan tool.
- ✔ Intermittent issues that get worse as the engine warms up.
Direct Fit and Function for a Wide Range of GM Models
This module is a direct replacement for original part numbers 16217058 and 16218070. It is engineered to fit a broad selection of 1997 General Motors vehicles, ensuring precise compatibility. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below:
- 1997 Buick Century (3.1L)
- 1997 Buick LeSabre (3.8L, w/o supercharger)
- 1997 Buick Regal (3.8L, w/o supercharger)
- 1997 Buick Skylark (3.1L)
- 1997 Chevrolet Lumina (3.1L)
- 1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (3.1L)
- 1997 Chevrolet Venture (3.4L)
- 1997 Oldsmobile 88 (3.8L, w/o supercharger)
- 1997 Oldsmobile Achieva (3.1L)
- 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme
- 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette (3.4L)
- 1997 Pontiac Bonneville (3.8L, w/o supercharger)
- 1997 Pontiac Grand Am (3.1L)
- 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (3.1L or 3.8L w/o supercharger)
- 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport (3.4L)
Ordering is simple: place your order, provide us with your VIN, and we’ll handle the programming. Your new module will arrive ready for installation, getting you back on the road quickly and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this module difficult to install?
The physical installation is straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills. It typically involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connectors, and unbolting the old module. However, after installation, you will likely need to perform a security relearn procedure (often called a VATS or Passlock relearn) to allow the vehicle to start. This procedure can usually be done without special tools and instructions are widely available online.
What is the difference between a PCM, ECM, and ECU?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM (Engine Control Module) traditionally referred to a computer that only controlled engine functions. PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is a more modern term for a computer that controls both the engine and the automatic transmission. ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is a generic term for any electronic module in a car. For this 1997 GM application, PCM is the most accurate term.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for the part to function in your vehicle.
Will this fix my specific check engine light codes?
If the codes are a result of a faulty computer, then yes, this will resolve them. However, a PCM can set codes because of failing sensors or wiring elsewhere in the vehicle. It’s always best to perform a thorough diagnosis. Common codes related to internal PCM failure include P0601-P0606, but it can also cause false codes for other components.
Is this part new or used?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested original equipment part that has been professionally prepared and programmed for your vehicle. Each unit undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets or exceeds OEM specifications for performance and reliability.