Is Your 1997 GM Vehicle Running Poorly?
If your 1997 Chevrolet Lumina, Monte Carlo, or another GM vehicle from that era is experiencing frustrating issues like stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a no-start condition, the root cause is often a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM is the central computer of your vehicle, managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shift points and emissions controls. When it begins to fail, it can create a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose and can sideline your car indefinitely.
This replacement Powertrain Control Module, part number 16218070, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability. Unlike a generic part from a salvage yard, this module is professionally programmed specifically for your car using your unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures that the computer has the correct software and calibrations for your engine, transmission, and factory options, eliminating compatibility issues and ensuring a seamless integration with your vehicle’s systems.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 1997 Buick Regal come into the shop with a classic complaint: it would run fine for about 15 minutes, then suddenly stall and refuse to restart until it cooled down completely. The owner had already replaced the crank sensor and the ignition control module based on some forum advice, but the problem persisted. After hooking up our scanner, we noticed that communication with the PCM would drop out completely right when the engine stalled. We suspected heat was causing an internal failure in the module. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a textbook example of how a failing computer can mimic other component failures, making a correctly diagnosed and programmed module the only true fix.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 1997 Lumina PCM
- โ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various trouble codes.
- โ Engine stalling unexpectedly or failing to start at all.
- โ Rough or erratic idling and poor engine performance.
- โ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- โ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- โ Intermittent loss of power or hesitation during acceleration.
- โ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
The Importance of VIN Programming
For vehicles from this era, simply swapping a computer from another car is not a viable solution. The PCM contains specific software tailored to your vehicle’s engine size (3.1L, 3.4L, or 3.8L), transmission type, and other factory-installed systems. Our process ensures this module is a perfect match. When you place your order, you will provide us with your VIN. We then use that information to load the latest official GM software updates onto the module. This means you receive a part that is not only a direct replacement but also contains the most refined and stable software available, correcting many of the known issues from the factory.
Guaranteed Fitment for a Wide Range of GM Models
This electronic control module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16218070 and 16217058. It is confirmed to fit the following 1997 models with the specified engine options:
- Achieva: 6-191 (3.1L)
- Bonneville: (6-231, 3.8L), w/o supercharged option
- Century: (6-191, 3.1L)
- Cutlass: Supreme
- Eighty Eight: (6-231, 3.8L), w/o supercharged option
- Grand Am: 6-191 (3.1L)
- Grand Prix: 6-191 (3.1L) & 6-231 (3.8L), w/o supercharged option
- LeSabre: (6-231, 3.8L)
- Lumina Car: 6-191 (3.1L)
- Monte Carlo: 6-191 (3.1L)
- Regal: (6-231, 3.8L), w/o supercharged option
- Silhouette: (6-207, 3.4L)
- Skylark: 6-191 (3.1L)
- Trans Sport: (6-207, 3.4L)
- Venture: (6-207, 3.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PCM and what does it do?
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is your car’s main computer. It controls the engine and transmission functions, managing fuel delivery, spark timing, emissions systems, and shift patterns to ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and low emissions.
Why does this module need to be programmed to my VIN?
Programming the module with your vehicle’s VIN is essential. It loads the specific software and calibrations for your car’s engine, transmission, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and prevents performance issues or warning lights that would occur with a non-programmed unit.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Because we pre-program the module, the physical installation is straightforward. However, some GM vehicles of this era may require a security relearn procedure (often called a CASE learn or anti-theft relearn) after installation. This is a simple procedure that can typically be done without special tools and instructions can be readily found online.
How do I provide my VIN after purchase?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship the module until we receive this information, as the programming is a required step.
My original part number is 16217058. Will this part work?
Yes, this module, part number 16218070, is a fully compatible and interchangeable replacement for part number 16217058. It will function identically once programmed to your vehicle’s VIN.