Restore Peak Performance to Your 1997 GM Vehicle
Is your 1997 Buick LeSabre, Pontiac Grand Prix, or Chevy Venture running rough, stalling, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light? The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), often called the Engine Control Module (ECM), is the central computer responsible for managing your vehicle’s engine and transmission. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and difficult-to-diagnose issues. This replacement PCM, part number 16218070, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s original performance, reliability, and efficiency.
This isn’t just a generic part off a shelf. We professionally program this module specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide at checkout. This critical step ensures that the computer has the correct software and calibrations for your car’s specific engine, transmission, and options. It also includes the latest software updates from General Motors, which can resolve factory-known issues and improve overall drivability. By ordering from us, you bypass the expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you time and money.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time to replace your engine computer:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or hesitating during acceleration.
- ✔ Rough or erratic idling.
- ✔ A sudden, unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start (no-start condition).
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I once had a 1997 Pontiac Bonneville come into the shop with a classic no-start complaint. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and the ignition control module, and was convinced his PCM was fried. He’d bought a used one online, but the car still wouldn’t start. Before condemning his new part, I did a basic check. I found the main engine ground strap, located near the transmission bellhousing, was corroded and barely making contact. After cleaning the connection point and reattaching the ground, the car fired right up with its original PCM. This is a crucial lesson: a bad ground can mimic a dead PCM by starving it of a stable connection. Always check your main power and ground connections at the battery, engine block, and chassis before replacing a major electronic component.
Why Choose a VIN-Programmed 1997 LeSabre PCM?
The key to a successful repair is a correctly configured module. The 3.1L, 3.4L, and 3.8L engines used across the GM lineup in 1997 had subtle but important differences in their software needs. Our VIN-specific programming ensures this 1997 LeSabre PCM is a true plug-and-play solution for your vehicle. Once you provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number, our technicians will flash the module with the exact GM-certified software for your car. This process accounts for everything from your engine size and transmission type to your final drive ratio and tire size, ensuring every system operates exactly as the manufacturer intended.
Simple Installation Process
Installation is straightforward for a DIY mechanic or a professional technician. After receiving your pre-programmed module:
- Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any vehicle electronics.
- Locate and Replace the PCM: On most of these vehicles, the PCM is located inside the air filter housing for protection and cooling. Simply unclip the housing, disconnect the electrical connectors, and swap the module.
- Perform Security Relearn: After installation, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called Passlock or Passkey relearn) to sync the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This typically involves a 30-minute process of cycling the ignition key and does not require any special tools.
Guaranteed Fitment
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16217058 and 16218070 and is confirmed to fit the following 1997 models with the specified options:
- Buick Century: 3.1L V6 (6-191)
- Buick LeSabre: 3.8L V6 (6-231)
- Buick Regal: 3.8L V6 (6-231), w/o supercharged option
- Buick Skylark: 3.1L V6 (6-191)
- Chevrolet Lumina: 3.1L V6 (6-191)
- Chevrolet Monte Carlo: 3.1L V6 (6-191)
- Chevrolet Venture: 3.4L V6 (6-207)
- Oldsmobile Achieva: 3.1L V6 (6-191)
- Oldsmobile Cutlass: Supreme models
- Oldsmobile Eighty Eight: 3.8L V6 (6-231), w/o supercharged option
- Oldsmobile Silhouette: 3.4L V6 (6-207)
- Pontiac Bonneville: 3.8L V6 (6-231), w/o supercharged option
- Pontiac Grand Am: 3.1L V6 (6-191)
- Pontiac Grand Prix: 3.1L V6 (6-191) or 3.8L V6 (6-231) w/o supercharged option
- Pontiac Trans Sport: 3.4L V6 (6-207)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This PCM comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. You just need to provide us with your 17-digit VIN during or after checkout.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple, tool-free process to sync the new PCM with your car’s anti-theft system. It typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeating this cycle three times. Your vehicle will not start until this is completed.
Where can I find my VIN?
Your 17-digit VIN is located on a tag on the driver’s side of the 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 car’s hard shifting?
A faulty PCM is a very common cause of transmission shifting problems, as it controls the shift solenoids and line pressure. While this module often resolves such issues, it’s important to ensure the transmission fluid is clean and at the correct level, and that there are no mechanical issues with the transmission itself.
Is this part difficult to install?
The physical replacement is one of the easier repairs. It typically involves removing the air filter box lid, unplugging a few connectors, and swapping the module. The most important step is performing the security relearn correctly after installation.
How can I be sure my old PCM is the problem?
The best way is with a professional diagnosis. However, if you’ve ruled out more common issues like bad sensors, poor wiring connections, and fuel or spark delivery problems, and the symptoms match those of a failing PCM, this is the most likely culprit.