Is Your 1997 GM Vehicle Running Poorly?
If you’re experiencing baffling issues like stalling, rough idling, a persistent check engine light, or poor fuel economy in your 1997 Buick Century, Pontiac Grand Prix, Chevy Lumina, or another compatible GM model, the culprit is often the very brain of your vehicle: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This vital component is responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated problems. Don’t let a faulty computer keep your reliable vehicle off the road. This is your direct, effective solution.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 1997 Buick LeSabre come into the shop with an intermittent no-start condition that was driving the owner crazy. It would be fine for days, then refuse to start, only to fire right up an hour later. There were no consistent trouble codes, and the fuel and spark seemed fine during testing. After checking all the wiring harnesses for corrosion and loose connections, we hooked up a scope to the PCM outputs. We discovered that the injector control signals were dropping out randomly. We swapped in a known-good, programmed PCM, and the problem vanished instantly. It was a classic case of internal PCM failure that simple code readers can’t always detect. This highlights why a quality, correctly programmed 1997 GM Powertrain Control Module is crucial for a definitive repair.
The Simple, Reliable Fix: A VIN-Programmed 1997 GM Powertrain Control Module
Getting your vehicle back to factory-spec performance is easier than you think. This replacement Powertrain Control Module, part number 16217058, is the definitive answer to your engine management woes. The most critical part of the process is the programming, and we handle that for you. Before we ship your part, our technicians will flash it with the latest, most stable software updates directly from General Motors, using the unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from your car. This ensures perfect compatibility and communication with all other modules in your vehicle, just like the original part did when it left the factory. This is not a generic, one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a component prepared specifically for your exact vehicle.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 1997 GM PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with various, often inconsistent, trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine stalls unexpectedly or struggles to start.
- ✔ Rough or erratic idling and poor engine performance.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ The vehicle fails to pass an emissions test.
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16217058 and 16218070. It is guaranteed to fit and function in the following 1997 models:
- Buick Century: 3.1L (6-191)
- Buick LeSabre: 3.8L (6-231)
- Buick Regal: 3.8L (6-231), w/o supercharged option
- Buick Skylark: 3.1L (6-191)
- Chevrolet Lumina Car: 3.1L (6-191)
- Chevrolet Monte Carlo: 3.1L (6-191)
- Chevrolet Venture: 3.4L (6-207)
- Oldsmobile Eighty Eight: 3.8L (6-231), w/o supercharged option
- Oldsmobile Achieva: 3.1L (6-191)
- Oldsmobile Cutlass: Supreme models
- Oldsmobile Silhouette: 3.4L (6-207)
- Pontiac Bonneville: 3.8L (6-231), w/o supercharged option
- Pontiac Grand Am: 3.1L (6-191)
- Pontiac Grand Prix: 3.1L (6-191) or 3.8L (6-231) w/o supercharged option
- Pontiac Trans Sport: 3.4L (6-207)
By ordering this 1997 GM Powertrain Control Module, you are taking the most important step to restoring your vehicle’s reliability and drivability. The process is simple: place your order, provide us with your VIN, and we’ll ship a fully programmed, ready-to-install module directly to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this part difficult to install?
The physical installation is straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills. It typically involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connectors, and unbolting the old module. The most important benefit of our service is that the unit arrives programmed to your VIN, which eliminates the need for expensive dealer-only programming tools. You may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which can be done without special tools and instructions are readily available online.
What happens after I place my order?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. You can typically add this in the notes section at checkout or send it in a follow-up message. Once we have your VIN, our technicians will program the module with the correct GM software for your specific vehicle. We will then ship the part to you, ready for installation.
How do I find my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found in several places: on a metal plate on the driver’s side dashboard visible through the windshield, on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, and on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light and associated codes are caused by a faulty PCM, then yes, this part will resolve the issue. It’s always recommended to have the codes professionally diagnosed to ensure the PCM is the root cause, but the symptoms listed above are strong indicators of PCM failure.
Do I need to send my old part back?
This listing does not require a core return. You can keep or dispose of your old module at your convenience.