Restore Peak Performance to Your 1997 GM Vehicle
Is your 1997 Buick Regal, Pontiac Grand Prix, or Chevrolet Camaro suffering from perplexing issues like a persistent check engine light, erratic shifting, poor fuel economy, or a no-start condition? These are classic symptoms of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle. This replacement PCM, part number 19109047, is the definitive solution to restore your engine and transmission’s factory-specified operation and get you back on the road with confidence.
The PCM is the master controller for your vehicle’s most critical systems. It precisely manages fuel injection, ignition timing, transmission shift points, and emissions controls based on a constant stream of data from sensors throughout your vehicle. When it begins to fail, the entire powertrain can be affected, leading to a frustrating and unreliable driving experience. Rather than continuing to chase down individual symptoms, replacing the core component is often the most direct and effective repair.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a ’97 Bonneville SSEi with the supercharged 3.8L come in with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights and a weird hesitation under light acceleration. No codes were stored, and all the live data looked normal during our initial tests. The owner had already replaced the plugs, wires, and MAF sensor. We drove it for two days before we finally caught it acting up. We noticed the injector pulse width would suddenly drop to almost zero right before it stalled. We suspected the PCM was losing its reference signal or the driver for the injectors was failing internally under thermal stress. We swapped in a known-good, correctly programmed PCM, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a great reminder that when all the components check out, you have to look at the controller itself. This is a common failure mode for the 1997 GM PCM.
Is Your Powertrain Control Module Failing?
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways, often mimicking other component failures. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your PCM may be the culprit:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with various communication or sensor codes (e.g., P0601, P0605).
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel mileage.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling, stumbling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Misfires or rough idling even after replacing spark plugs and coils.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test.
The Importance of a VIN-Programmed 1997 GM PCM
You cannot simply take a PCM from another vehicle and install it in yours. Each module is programmed with software specific to your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This programming accounts for your exact engine, transmission, emissions equipment, and other factory options. Our service eliminates all guesswork. We flash this module with the latest GM-certified software updates using your specific VIN. This ensures that upon installation, the module communicates flawlessly with all other systems in your vehicle, just as it did when it left the factory. This plug-and-play solution saves you a trip to the dealership and the high costs associated with their programming services.
Simple Ordering and Installation Process
Step 1: Place Your Order.
Complete your purchase for this module.
Step 2: Provide Your VIN.
After ordering, simply send us your 17-digit VIN. Our technicians will use this to load the precise software for your vehicle onto the module.
Step 3: Install the Module.
Once you receive your pre-programmed PCM, disconnect your vehicle’s battery. Locate and remove the old module, then install the new one. Reconnect the battery. In many cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary, which can typically be done without special tools. This simple process involves cycling the key in the ignition and is detailed in many vehicle service manuals or online resources.
Guaranteed Fitment
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 19109047 and 16227797. It is guaranteed to fit the following 1997 models with the specified engine options:
- Bonneville: Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L), w/supercharged option
- Camaro: Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L)
- Eighty Eight: Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L), w/supercharged option
- Firebird: Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L)
- Grand Prix: Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L), w/supercharged option
- Lumina Car: Electronic Control Module; 6-207 (3.4L)
- Monte Carlo: Electronic Control Module; 6-207 (3.4L)
- Park Avenue: Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
- Regal: Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L), w/supercharged option
- Riviera: Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send you my old PCM?
No, there is no core charge or need to return your old, faulty module. This is a direct purchase.
What happens if I don’t provide my VIN?
We cannot ship the module without your vehicle’s VIN. The programming is essential for the part to function in your car. We will hold your order and contact you to get the necessary information before shipping.
Is this a plug-and-play installation?
Yes, because we program it to your VIN, it is designed to be a plug-and-play part. However, some GM vehicles of this era require a security relearn procedure (often called a VATS relearn) after installation. This procedure syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system and can usually be done in your driveway without any special tools.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module will resolve issues directly caused by a failing PCM. While the symptoms we’ve listed are very common for a bad 1997 GM PCM, it’s always recommended to have a proper diagnosis performed to rule out other potential causes like faulty wiring, sensors, or mechanical problems.
What is the difference between a PCM, ECM, and ECU?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM (Engine Control Module) and ECU (Engine Control Unit) typically refer to a module that only controls the engine. A PCM (Powertrain Control Module) controls both the engine and the automatic transmission, which is the case for this GM part.