Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your trusty 1997 Buick Regal—or another classic GM car—suffering from frustrating and unpredictable issues? Problems like random stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, poor fuel mileage, or a no-start condition can often be traced back to a single, critical component: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer of your vehicle, a failing PCM can create a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed. This replacement Powertrain Control Module, part number 16217058, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running smoothly and reliably again.
This isn’t just a generic part off a shelf. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair by professionally programming the module to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This ensures perfect compatibility with your engine, transmission, and factory options, using the latest software updates from General Motors. You get a component that’s ready for installation right out of the box, saving you a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 1997 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight that came into my shop with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights and occasional harsh shifting. The owner had already replaced the crankshaft position sensor and the mass airflow sensor with no luck. Scans showed no hard codes, only pending ones that would clear themselves. After checking the wiring for the fifth time, I focused on the PCM. On these older GM platforms, heat cycles and vibration can cause microscopic cracks in the PCM’s internal solder joints. We swapped in a VIN-programmed 1997 Regal Powertrain Module (which also fits the Eighty Eight), and the car ran perfectly. It’s a classic example of how a failing computer can mimic sensor or mechanical failures, making a direct replacement the only real fix.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Signs?
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need. Over my 20 years of diagnostics, these are the most common symptoms I’ve linked directly to a failing engine computer on these platforms:
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light illumination
- ✔ Stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0602, P0605, or P0606, which point to internal module failure
- ✔ Engine stalling, sputtering, or hesitation
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the best features of this module is its simple, DIY-friendly installation process. Since the programming is already done, you won’t need any special scan tools. Just basic hand tools and about 30 minutes of your time.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM vehicles, the PCM is located inside the air filter box in the engine compartment. You may need to remove the air intake ducting for access.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harnesses from the old module. These connectors are color-coded to prevent mix-ups.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket or housing and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Seat your new, pre-programmed PCM into the mounting bracket and secure it.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click securely in place. Reinstall the air filter housing and intake ducting.
- Final Step: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle is now ready to start. In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary, which can typically be done without special tools (consult your vehicle’s service manual).
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16217058 and 16218070. It is guaranteed to fit the following 1997 models with the specified engines. Please provide your VIN upon purchase to ensure correct programming.
- ✔ 1997 Buick Century (3.1L V6)
- ✔ 1997 Buick LeSabre (3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- ✔ 1997 Buick Regal (3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- ✔ 1997 Buick Skylark (3.1L V6)
- ✔ 1997 Chevrolet Lumina Car (3.1L V6)
- ✔ 1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (3.1L V6)
- ✔ 1997 Chevrolet Venture (3.4L V6)
- ✔ 1997 Oldsmobile Achieva (3.1L V6)
- ✔ 1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass (Supreme)
- ✔ 1997 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight (3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- ✔ 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette (3.4L V6)
- ✔ 1997 Pontiac Bonneville (3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- ✔ 1997 Pontiac Grand Am (3.1L V6)
- ✔ 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (3.1L or 3.8L V6, w/o supercharger)
- ✔ 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport (3.4L V6)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) contains critical information about your car’s engine, transmission, emissions system, and other factory-installed options. We use your VIN to load the exact, correct GM software onto the module, ensuring it works perfectly with your specific vehicle, just like the original part did.
What is the difference between a PCM and an ECM?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM stands for Engine Control Module, while PCM means Powertrain Control Module. A PCM is a more advanced computer that controls both the engine and the transmission functions, which is what these 1997 GM vehicles use. This part serves as the complete powertrain computer.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
Not at all. Because we handle all the programming, the physical installation is very straightforward for a DIYer with basic hand tools. It primarily involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the old module, swapping it with the new one, and plugging it back in. Please see our installation guide above.
Will this fix my car’s check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the existing PCM (common codes include P0601-P0606), then yes, this replacement module will resolve the issue. However, if the light is on due to a faulty sensor or another mechanical problem, that separate issue will still need to be addressed.