Is Your 1997 GM Truck or Van Running Rough?
If you’re behind the wheel of a classic 1997 GMC Yukon, Chevy Truck, or one of the many other compatible vehicles, you know it’s a workhorse. But when the central computerโthe Powertrain Control Module (PCM)โstarts to fail, it can bring your entire vehicle to a standstill. Over my 20+ years in the shop, I’ve seen these exact modules cause some of the most frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. The symptoms often appear out of nowhere, leaving you stranded or dealing with a vehicle that’s just not reliable anymore.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 1997 PCM
A faulty PCM is the root cause of many performance problems. Because it controls everything from fuel mixture and spark timing to transmission shift points, its failure can manifest in numerous ways. Look out for these tell-tale signs:
- โ Check Engine Light: The most obvious sign, often with codes related to communication loss, sensor circuits, or processor faults.
- โ No-Start or Hard Starting: The engine cranks but won’t fire up, or takes an excessive amount of time to start. This is often due to the PCM not commanding the fuel pump or ignition system correctly.
- โ Engine Stalling: Your vehicle may stall unexpectedly while driving or when coming to a stop.
- โ Poor Fuel Economy: A failing module can’t properly calculate the air-fuel ratio, leading to a significant drop in MPG.
- โ Erratic Shifting or Transmission Issues: The PCM on these models works in tandem with the transmission. You might experience harsh shifts, getting stuck in a gear, or failure to shift at all.
- โ No Communication with Scan Tool: If your mechanic plugs in a diagnostic tool and can’t communicate with the engine computer, it’s a strong indicator the module itself has failed.
Expert Pro Tip: Don’t Mistake a Bad PCM for a Fuel Problem
On these 1997 GM trucks with Vortec engines, I’ve seen countless hours and dollars wasted chasing what looks like a fuel delivery issue. The original “spider” injection system is complex, but a failing PCM can mimic its symptoms perfectlyโerratic injector pulses, hard starts, and stalling. Before you tear into the intake manifold, connect a high-quality scan tool. If you see communication loss with the PCM or get nonsensical data readings, the module itself is the likely culprit. A simple voltage check at the PCM connector can also confirm if the unit is getting power but not responding.
The Direct, Programmed Solution
This isn’t just a part in a box. This is a fully programmed Powertrain Control Module, ready to restore your vehicle’s factory performance. We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the repair. Hereโs what makes this the right choice:
- โ VIN-Specific Programming: After your purchase, you simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We then flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates from GM specific to your truck or van. This ensures perfect compatibility with your engine, transmission, and factory options.
- โ Simple Installation: Because the programming is done beforehand, you don’t need a trip to the dealership or a specialized scan tool. In most cases, installation is straightforward. Disconnect the battery, locate the old PCM (typically in the engine bay on the driver’s side), swap the modules, and reconnect the battery. A security relearn procedure may be required, which is a simple process you can do yourself.
- โ Guaranteed Compatibility: This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16229684 and 8162296840.
Guaranteed Fitment For Your Vehicle
This Electronic Control Module is verified to fit the following 1997 models. Please confirm your vehicle is on this list before ordering.
- โ Astro Van: 1997 (Located LH front by battery)
- โ Blazer S10/Jimmy S15: 1997 (with 4.3L V6)
- โ Bravada: 1997 (with 4.3L V6)
- โ Chevrolet/GMC Pickup (1500, 2500, 3500): 1997 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
- โ Express/Savana Van (1500, 2500, 3500): 1997 (Gasoline)
- โ Isuzu Hombre: 1997 (with 4.3L V6)
- โ S10/S15/Sonoma Pickup: 1997 (with 4.3L V6)
- โ Safari (GMC): 1997 (Located LH front by battery)
- โ Suburban (1500, 2500): 1997 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
- โ Tahoe/Yukon: 1997 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your reliable GM vehicle off the road. Order this pre-programmed PCM today and restore the performance and dependability you count on.