Is Your 1997 GM Truck or Van Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with persistent check engine lights, erratic engine behavior, or transmission shifting problems in your 1997 Chevrolet Express 3500 or other compatible GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. As the central computer, the PCM is responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shift points and emissions controls. When it begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and difficult-to-diagnose issues. This replacement PCM is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We once had a ’97 GMC Yukon come into the shop with a complaint of poor fuel economy and a check engine light for multiple oxygen sensor heater circuits. The owner had already replaced all four O2 sensors, the catalytic converter, and even the fuel pump, with no success. After verifying the wiring was intact, we hooked up a scope to the PCM outputs for the heater circuits and found they were dead. A quick swap with a correctly programmed PCM like this one, and all the codes vanished. The truck ran perfectly and passed emissions with flying colors. It’s a classic case of chasing symptoms when the root cause lies within the vehicle’s brain.
Symptoms of a Failing 1997 GM PCM
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed transmission shifting.
- ✔ A complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but will not fire.
- ✔ Noticeably decreased fuel economy.
- ✔ Failure to communicate with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ Multiple random trouble codes for various sensors.
The Reliable Solution: A Programmed 1997 Express 3500 PCM
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your reliable GM truck off the road. This Powertrain Control Module is a direct-fit replacement, tested to ensure functionality and durability. The critical advantage of our service is that we program the module specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This process loads the latest GM-certified software and vehicle-specific parameters, ensuring the module works seamlessly with your engine, transmission, and all related systems right out of the box. This eliminates the need for an expensive trip to a dealership for programming.
Installation is straightforward for anyone with basic mechanical skills. The module is typically located in the engine bay on the driver’s side. Simply disconnect the battery, carefully unplug the old module’s wiring harnesses, unbolt it, and install the new one in its place. After reconnecting the battery, your vehicle will be ready to start. In some cases, a Crankshaft Position System Variation (CASE) relearn procedure may be necessary with a compatible scan tool to clear specific codes, but the vehicle will be fully operational.
Wide-Ranging Compatibility
This module, identified by part numbers 8162296840 and 16229684, is compatible with a vast array of 1997 model year GM trucks, vans, and SUVs. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below to ensure proper fitment:
- Astro / Safari (4.3L)
- Blazer S10 / Jimmy S15 (4.3L)
- Bravada (4.3L)
- Chevrolet / GMC C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickups (Gasoline)
- Express / Savana 1500, 2500, 3500 Vans (Gasoline)
- Isuzu Hombre (4.3L)
- S10 / Sonoma (4.3L)
- Suburban 1500, 2500 (Gasoline)
- Tahoe / Yukon (Gasoline)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this module truly plug-and-play?
Yes, because we program it with your vehicle’s specific VIN, it is ready for installation upon arrival. It will have the correct software and calibrations for your engine and transmission. While the vehicle will start and run, a CASE relearn procedure is sometimes required with a scan tool to optimize performance and clear a P1336 code if it appears.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need 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 transmission shifting problems?
If the transmission issues are caused by faulty signals or processing within the PCM, then yes, this part is very likely to solve the problem. The PCM controls shift solenoids and line pressure based on sensor inputs. However, this will not fix internal mechanical failures within the transmission itself.
What if my original part number is 16229684?
This module is a fully compatible replacement for service number 16229684. Both numbers refer to the same hardware, and our module will function identically once programmed for your vehicle.
Where is the PCM located on my 1997 GM truck?
On most models covered by this part, including the Express/Savana vans and C/K pickups, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, often near the battery or firewall.