Is Your 1997 GM Truck or Van Running Rough? It Could Be The PCM.
If you’re dealing with a no-start condition, erratic shifting, a persistent check engine light, or just poor engine performance in your 1997 Chevy Express 1500 or a similar GM vehicle, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is a prime suspect. As the central computer for your engine and transmission, when it starts to fail, it can create a host of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. Over my 20+ years in the shop, I’ve seen these specific PCMs cause everything from intermittent stalling to complete transmission failure because of bad signals.
A Real-World Scenario
“A customer’s 1997 Tahoe came in last week with these exact symptoms. It would start fine cold, but after 15 minutes of driving, the transmission would start shifting hard and the engine would hunt for idle. The owner had already replaced the throttle position sensor and the idle air control valve with no luck. We hooked up our diagnostic scanner and found we were losing communication with the PCM intermittently. After verifying the power and ground feeds to the module were solid, we knew the internal processor was failing from heat soak—a classic failure mode for these units. A replacement, correctly programmed PCM fixed all his issues in one shot.”
Why a Used PCM from a Junkyard is a Bad Idea
You might be tempted to grab a used module to save a few bucks. Here’s why that’s a gamble I never recommend. These 1997 GM PCMs are programmed specifically to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the original vehicle. Installing a used one without proper programming will, at best, result in a check engine light and incorrect engine/transmission parameters. At worst, the vehicle won’t start at all due to the anti-theft system (Passlock) mismatch. You’d still have to pay a dealership or specialized shop to flash it, wiping out any initial savings.
The Direct, Reliable Solution: A VIN-Programmed PCM
This is the correct, hassle-free way to solve your vehicle’s electronic woes. We take a fully tested, reliable PCM and program it specifically for your truck or van using the VIN you provide. This ensures it works seamlessly with your vehicle’s specific configuration—engine size, transmission type, and emissions equipment.
- ✔ Guaranteed Compatibility: Programmed with the latest GM software updates for your exact VIN.
- ✔ Saves Time and Money: No need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
- ✔ Plug-and-Play Installation: Once you receive the module, the physical installation is straightforward. In most cases, it’s ready to go.
- ✔ Restores Original Performance: Fixes common issues like rough idle, poor fuel economy, shifting problems, and false trouble codes.
How It Works
The process is simple. After you purchase the PCM, just send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians will use certified equipment to load the correct GM calibration file onto the module. We then verify the programming was successful before shipping it directly to you. When it arrives, it’s ready for installation.
Installation Note
On these 1997 GM vehicles, the PCM is typically located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the battery or firewall. After installing the new module, you may need to have a Crankshaft Position System Variation Relearn (also known as a CASE relearn) performed. This procedure requires a compatible professional scan tool and synchronizes the new PCM with the crankshaft position sensor. Many vehicles will start and run without it, but may have a check engine light for code P1336 until the relearn is completed.
This PCM Fits The Following 1997 Models:
- ✔ Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana Vans (1500, 2500, 3500)
- ✔ Chevrolet & GMC Pickups (1500, 2500, 3500)
- ✔ Chevrolet Suburban & Tahoe
- ✔ GMC Yukon
- ✔ Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma (4.3L V6)
- ✔ Chevrolet Blazer / GMC Jimmy (4.3L V6)
- ✔ Oldsmobile Bravada (4.3L V6)
- ✔ Chevrolet Astro / GMC Safari
- ✔ Isuzu Hombre (4.3L V6)
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16229684 and 8162296840. Verify the part number on your original module to ensure a perfect match.