Is Your 1997 GM Truck or Van Experiencing Unexplained Problems?
If you’re dealing with a no-start condition, intermittent stalling, erratic shifting, or a check engine light that just won’t go away on your 1997 GM vehicle, the culprit is often the heart of the electronics: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Over my 20+ years in the shop, I’ve seen hundreds of these mid-90s GM trucks and vans come in with symptoms that leave owners scratching their heads. The issue frequently traces back to a failing PCM, the central computer that manages everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shift points.
The Common Signs of a Failing 1997 GM PCM
These modules live in a harsh environmentโthe engine bay. Decades of heat cycles, vibration, and moisture can take their toll on the internal circuitry. When they start to fail, the symptoms can be confusing because the PCM controls so many different systems. You might be chasing what you think is a bad sensor, but the root cause is the computer itself.
- โ No communication with your scan tool.
- โ Engine cranks but refuses to start.
- โ Unexplained stalling, especially after the engine warms up.
- โ Harsh or delayed automatic transmission shifts.
- โ A persistent Check Engine Light with multiple, seemingly unrelated trouble codes.
- โ Poor fuel economy and a noticeable loss of power.
Expert Pro Tip: Check Your Grounds First!
Before you condemn your PCM, do yourself a favor and check the main engine and body ground connections. On these 90s GM trucks, a corroded or loose ground strap (especially the one from the engine block to the firewall or frame) can create electrical chaos that perfectly mimics a bad PCM. I’ve saved customers hundreds of dollars by spending 10 minutes cleaning a ground connection. It’s a critical first step in any electrical diagnosis.
The Solution: A Reliable, Programmed PCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We are offering a high-quality Powertrain Control Module, part number 8162296840, that is fully tested for reliability. The most critical part of the service is that we program it specifically for your vehicle using your VIN.
Why is this so important? Back in 1997, the PCM was coded to your truck’s specific engine, transmission, and options. Simply swapping in a used module from a junkyard won’t work correctlyโif at all. Our process ensures that the module you receive has the latest GM software updates and is a true plug-and-play installation. This saves you a costly trip to the dealership and the hassle of needing a specialized scan tool like a Tech 2 for programming.
What We Do For You:
- โ VIN Programming: We flash the module with your vehicle’s exact calibration file from GM.
- โ Software Updates: We install the newest software, which can resolve factory bugs related to idle quality and transmission performance.
- โ Plug-and-Play Installation: Once you receive the module, you simply disconnect the battery, swap the part, and reconnect. No further programming is required.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your 1997 GM Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 8162296840 and 16229684. It is located in the left-hand (driver’s side) front of the engine compartment, often near the battery. It is compatible with a wide range of popular 1997 gasoline-powered models:
- โ Astro / Safari (GMC)
- โ Blazer S10 / Jimmy S15 (4.3L)
- โ Bravada (4.3L)
- โ Chevrolet 1500 / 2500 / 3500 Pickup
- โ Express 1500 / 2500 / 3500 Van
- โ GMC 1500 / 2500 / 3500 Pickup
- โ Isuzu Hombre (4.3L)
- โ S10 / S15 / Sonoma (4.3L)
- โ Savana 1500 / 2500 / 3500 Van
- โ Suburban 1500 / 2500
- โ Tahoe / Yukon