Restore Peak Performance to Your 1997 GM Truck or Van
Is your trusty 1997 GMC 3500, Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, or Suburban running rough, stalling, or showing a persistent check engine light? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission. A faulty PCM can lead to a cascade of frustrating issues, from poor fuel economy to a complete no-start condition. This replacement PCM, part number 16229684, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s reliability, power, and efficiency.
This isn’t just a generic part off the shelf. We provide a fully programmed module tailored specifically to your vehicle. Upon purchase, you simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and our technicians will flash the unit with the latest, most stable GM factory software for your exact configuration. This critical step ensures seamless communication with all other modules in your vehicle, eliminating compatibility errors and guaranteeing a smooth, plug-and-play installation process. Get back on the road with confidence, knowing your engine is operating precisely as the manufacturer intended.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a customer bringing in his ’97 Chevy K1500 that had been to three other shops. It had a random misfire, shifted hard from first to second, and the check engine light was a permanent fixture on his dash. They had thrown parts at it: new plugs, wires, cap, rotor, even a fuel pump. Nothing worked. When it got to my bay, I checked the basics first—power and ground to the PCM. The grounds were solid. But when I monitored the 5-volt reference signal from the PCM to the sensors, it was erratic. Instead of a steady 5V, it was jumping all over. That’s a tell-tale sign of an internal PCM failure. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the truck ran like it just rolled off the assembly line. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most complex problems have a straightforward solution if you correctly identify the root cause: the computer itself.
Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The light is on, and you may have codes related to sensor circuits, misfires, or internal module failure.
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: Your engine may run rough, stall unexpectedly, or hesitate during acceleration.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: The engine cranks but refuses to start, often due to a lack of fuel injector pulse or spark command from the PCM.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: A failing module can’t properly manage the air-fuel mixture, leading to a noticeable drop in MPG.
- ✔ Harsh or Incorrect Shifting: The PCM plays a vital role in controlling the automatic transmission, and failure can cause erratic shifting or getting stuck in one gear.
- ✔ Failed Emissions Test: Inability to properly manage engine parameters will almost certainly lead to a failed smog check.
Why Choose Our 1997 GMC 3500 PCM?
Choosing the right replacement module is critical for these classic GM vehicles. Our process is designed to provide a reliable, long-term solution. The 1997 GMC 3500 PCM you receive is meticulously prepared to meet and exceed original factory specifications. By flashing it with your vehicle’s VIN, we ensure all optional equipment (like transmission type, gear ratio, and emissions components) is correctly accounted for. This prevents the compatibility issues that plague non-programmed or incorrectly programmed modules, saving you time, money, and the headache of a return trip to the shop.
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16229684 and 8162296840 and fits a wide array of 1997 General Motors vehicles, including:
- Chevrolet & GMC Pickups (1500, 2500, 3500)
- Chevrolet & GMC Suburban / Tahoe / Yukon
- Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana Vans (1500, 2500, 3500)
- Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma / Isuzu Hombre (4.3L V6)
- Chevrolet Blazer / GMC Jimmy / Oldsmobile Bravada (4.3L V6)
- Chevrolet Astro / GMC Safari Vans
Take the guesswork out of your repair. With our VIN-programmed 1997 GMC 3500 PCM, you are getting a component that is ready for installation right out of the box, restoring the heart of your vehicle’s management system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) allows us to program the PCM with the exact software and calibrations for your truck’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and function without needing a trip to the dealership.
Is this part difficult to install?
The physical installation is straightforward for a DIYer with basic tools. It’s typically located in the engine bay. After installation, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a CASE learn or Passlock relearn), which can usually be done without special tools. Instructions are widely available online.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of your original PCM, then yes, this will resolve the issue. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the codes are not being caused by a faulty sensor or wiring issue. Always diagnose the trouble codes before ordering.
Is this a plug-and-play module?
Yes, because we program it to your VIN, it is designed to be plug-and-play. In some cases, a security relearn procedure is required after installation for the vehicle to start, which is a simple process you can do yourself.
What if my original part number is slightly different?
This module is a compatible replacement for service numbers 16229684 and 8162296840. If your number is different, please contact us with your VIN and original part number to confirm compatibility before ordering.