Is Your 1997 GM Truck or Van Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with a no-start condition, a persistent check engine light that won’t go away, erratic engine behavior, or transmission shifting problems in your 1997 Chevrolet Express 1500 or another compatible GM vehicle, the root cause is often the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen countless cases where these exact symptoms point directly to a failing engine computer.
From the Shop Floor: A Real-World Diagnostic
“A customer’s 1997 GMC Safari came in last week with these exact symptoms. It would crank but wouldn’t start, and when it occasionally did, it ran incredibly rich, blowing black smoke. We checked fuel pressure, spark, and all the basic sensorsโeverything looked good. After connecting our diagnostic tool, we found communication with the PCM was intermittent. We knew right away. After swapping in a properly programmed module, the van fired up on the first try and ran perfectly. Itโs a classic failure mode for these workhorse vehicles.”
The Brain of Your Engine: Why the PCM Fails
The PCM is the central command center for your engine and transmission. It controls everything from fuel injection and spark timing to emission systems and automatic transmission shift points. Located in the harsh environment of the engine bay, these modules are subjected to constant heat, vibration, and electrical stress. Over 25+ years, internal components like capacitors can leak, and solder joints can develop microscopic cracks, leading to a host of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 1997 GM PCM:
- โ Engine cranks but will not start.
- โ Unexplained check engine light with various codes.
- โ Poor fuel economy and rough idling.
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- โ Intermittent stalling or hesitation during acceleration.
- โ Complete loss of communication with diagnostic scan tools.
The Solution: A Pre-Programmed, Ready-to-Install PCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair. When you purchase this PCM, we use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) you provide to flash the module with the latest, most stable software calibrations directly from GM. This is a critical step that cannot be skipped.
Why Pre-Programming is Essential:
- โ Vehicle Security: The PCM is tied to your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Our programming ensures it communicates correctly, allowing your engine to start.
- โ Engine & Transmission Calibration: Your VIN tells us the exact engine, transmission, and options your vehicle has. We load the precise software to ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance.
- โ No Dealer Visit Required: Without this service, you would have to get the vehicle towed to a dealership for expensive programming with their specialized tools. Our process saves you hundreds of dollars and significant downtime.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This module, part number 8162296840 (also compatible with 16229684), is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of 1997 GM and Isuzu models. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below. The module is typically located in the left-hand (driver’s side) front of the engine compartment, often near the battery.
Compatible 1997 Models:
- โ Chevrolet Vans: EXPRESS 1500, EXPRESS 2500 (Gasoline), EXPRESS 3500 (Gasoline)
- โ Chevrolet Trucks: C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 PICKUP (Gasoline)
- โ Chevrolet SUVs: BLAZER S10 (4.3L), SUBURBAN 1500/2500 (Gasoline), TAHOE (Gasoline)
- โ GMC Vans: SAVANA 1500, SAVANA 2500 (Gasoline), SAVANA 3500 (Gasoline)
- โ GMC Trucks: C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 PICKUP (Gasoline), S15/SONOMA (4.3L)
- โ GMC SUVs: JIMMY S15 (4.3L), YUKON (Gasoline)
- โ Other GM Models: ASTRO, SAFARI, Oldsmobile BRAVADA (4.3L), Isuzu HOMBRE (4.3L)
Ordering is simple. After your purchase, just send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN, and we’ll handle the programming. We’ll then ship a module that is ready for a straightforward installation, getting your reliable GM vehicle back on the road where it belongs.