Restore Peak Performance to Your 1997 GM Vehicle
Is your 1997 Buick Regal, Grand Prix, or another classic GM car suffering from frustrating engine problems? Stalling, erratic idling, poor fuel economy, and a persistent check engine light are often signs that the vehicle’s brain—the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)—is failing. This isn’t just an annoyance; it affects your car’s reliability and performance. We offer a dependable, direct-fit solution: a replacement 1997 Regal Powertrain Control Module, part number 16227797, that arrives ready for installation.
The biggest hurdle in replacing a PCM has always been the expensive and time-consuming programming required at a dealership. We eliminate that step entirely. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN after purchase, and our technicians will flash the module with the latest official GM software updates specific to your car. This ensures all engine and transmission parameters are set correctly, restoring the smooth, efficient operation you expect. It’s a professional-grade fix you can perform right in your own garage.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent Stall Mystery
A while back, a 1997 Pontiac Bonneville with the supercharged 3.8L came into my shop with a tricky complaint: it would randomly stall at stoplights, but only after it was fully warmed up. There were no consistent check engine light codes, making it a diagnostic headache. After checking fuel pressure, spark, and for vacuum leaks, everything seemed fine. On a hunch, I monitored the live data stream from the PCM. I noticed the injector pulse width would suddenly drop to zero just before a stall. This pointed to the PCM itself. After installing a VIN-programmed module just like this one, the stalling issue was completely resolved. It’s a classic example of how a failing PCM can cause baffling issues without leaving obvious clues.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated, often with internal processor codes like P0601, P0605, or P0606.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Rough or unpredictable engine idling.
- ✔ Vehicle stalling for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test.
- ✔ Loss of communication with the scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these 1997 GM models, the PCM is located under the hood, typically inside the air filter housing or mounted near it.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. There are usually several large, multi-pin connectors with locking tabs.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed 1997 Regal Powertrain Control Module and securely reconnect all wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn: You may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle three times. This allows the new PCM to sync with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Your car should now start and run correctly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16227797 and 19109047. It is guaranteed to fit the following 1997 models with the specified options:
- Bonneville: 1997, Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L), w/supercharged option
- Camaro: 1997, Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L)
- Eighty Eight: 1997, Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L), w/supercharged option
- Firebird: 1997, Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L)
- Grand Prix: 1997, Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L), w/supercharged option
- Lumina Car: 1997, Electronic Control Module; 6-207 (3.4L)
- Monte Carlo: 1997, Electronic Control Module; 6-207 (3.4L)
- Park Avenue: 1997, Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
- Regal: 1997, Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L), w/supercharged option
- Riviera: 1997, Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
Do I need to program this PCM?
Do I need to program this PCM?
No. This is the main benefit of our service. We program the module to your car’s specific VIN before we ship it. It arrives ready to install, saving you a trip to the dealer and avoiding expensive programming fees.
How do I provide my Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
Do I need to program this PCM?
No. This is the main benefit of our service. We program the module to your car’s specific VIN before we ship it. It arrives ready to install, saving you a trip to the dealer and avoiding expensive programming fees.
What is the security relearn procedure?
Do I need to program this PCM?
No. This is the main benefit of our service. We program the module to your car’s specific VIN before we ship it. It arrives ready to install, saving you a trip to the dealer and avoiding expensive programming fees.
Is this module compatible with part number 19109047?
Do I need to program this PCM?
No. This is the main benefit of our service. We program the module to your car’s specific VIN before we ship it. It arrives ready to install, saving you a trip to the dealer and avoiding expensive programming fees.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
Do I need to program this PCM?
No. This is the main benefit of our service. We program the module to your car’s specific VIN before we ship it. It arrives ready to install, saving you a trip to the dealer and avoiding expensive programming fees.