Restore Peak Performance to Your 1997 GM Vehicle
Is your trusty 1997 Buick Century, Grand Prix, or Lumina suddenly giving you trouble? If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like a persistent Check Engine Light, rough idling, stalling, or poor fuel mileage, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the electronic brain of your vehicle, the PCM is responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it falters, the entire driving experience suffers.
Over my 20+ years in the garage, I’ve seen countless mid-90s GM vehicles with these exact symptoms. The original PCMs can develop internal faults from age, heat cycles, and vibration. This isn’t just an inconvenience; a faulty module can leave you stranded. We offer a dependable and straightforward solution: a replacement 1997 Century Powertrain Control Module, professionally programmed with the latest GM software updates specifically for your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in his ’97 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight with an intermittent no-start condition that two other shops couldn’t solve. It would run fine for days, then refuse to start, with no spark and no fuel pump prime. The codes were inconsistent. After checking all the basics—crank sensor, grounds, power feeds—I focused on the PCM. On these specific GM models, I’ve seen the internal processors fail under certain temperature conditions. We swapped in one of our VIN-programmed modules, and the problem vanished instantly. It’s a classic failure that often gets misdiagnosed, costing owners time and money on unnecessary parts.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or other communication errors.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough, erratic idling.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or delayed automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the biggest benefits of our service is that this module arrives ready to install. No need for expensive dealership programming or specialized scan tools. Just follow these simple steps to get your vehicle back on the road.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these 1997 GM models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter housing for protection.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. These connectors have locking tabs, so be gentle to avoid damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Secure your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the mounting bracket.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Your vehicle is now ready to start. In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘On’ position for 10-15 minutes.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for part numbers 16217058 and 16218070. It is guaranteed to fit the following 1997 models:
- Achieva: 1997 (3.1L V6)
- Bonneville: 1997 (3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- Century: 1997 (3.1L V6)
- Cutlass: 1997 (Supreme models)
- Eighty Eight: 1997 (3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- Grand Am: 1997 (3.1L V6)
- Grand Prix: 1997 (3.1L V6 or 3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- LeSabre: 1997 (3.8L V6)
- Lumina Car: 1997 (3.1L V6)
- Monte Carlo: 1997 (3.1L V6)
- Regal: 1997 (3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- Silhouette: 1997 (3.4L V6)
- Skylark: 1997 (3.1L V6)
- Trans Sport: 1997 (3.4L V6)
- Venture: 1997 (3.4L V6)
Choosing this pre-programmed 1997 Century Powertrain Control Module is the smartest way to solve complex electronic issues, restore factory performance, and ensure your vehicle runs reliably for years to come. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we’ll handle the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This module arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN with the latest GM software. It is a true plug-and-play solution, saving you a trip to the dealership.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship your part until we receive this information.
Where is the PCM located on a 1997 Buick Century?
On the 1997 Century, the PCM is typically located inside the air cleaner assembly box in the engine compartment. This protects it from heat and moisture.
Will this also replace part number 16218070?
Yes, this module is a fully compatible, direct replacement for both 16217058 and 16218070. We will program it to function perfectly for your vehicle’s original specifications.
What happens if I continue driving with a bad PCM?
Continuing to drive with a failing PCM can lead to more severe problems, including catalytic converter damage from an incorrect air/fuel mixture, poor engine performance, and eventually a no-start condition that could leave you stranded.