Restore Your Minivan’s Reliability and Performance
Is your 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette or other GM vehicle experiencing frustrating issues like stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent Check Engine Light, or even a no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the computer that acts as your vehicle’s brain. When it falters, everything from fuel delivery to transmission control can become unpredictable. This replacement PCM, part number 16218070, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s proper operation and your peace of mind.
Unlike generic modules that require expensive trips to the dealership for programming, this unit arrives at your door ready for installation. We handle the critical programming for you. Simply provide your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash the module with the latest, most stable GM software specific to your vehicle. This ensures seamless communication between all vehicle systems and resolves software-related bugs that may have been present in the original factory programming. This is the most direct path to getting your reliable GM vehicle back on the road.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent No-Start Nightmare
I remember a 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport—same platform as the Silhouette—that came into my shop with an issue that was driving the owner crazy. It would start and run perfectly for weeks, then suddenly refuse to start. No crank, no communication with the scan tool. The battery was new, and the starter checked out. After hours of tracing wires, we noticed that on a hot day, wiggling the PCM connectors would sometimes bring it back to life. The culprit was internal solder joint failure inside the original PCM. Heat expansion caused an open circuit, killing communication. Swapping in a properly programmed module like this one solved the problem permanently. These intermittent electrical faults are a hallmark of a failing PCM from this era.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light (CEL) is on with communication error codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0605 (Internal Control Module Read Only Memory (ROM) Error).
- ✔ The engine cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ The engine stalls unexpectedly while driving or at idle.
- ✔ Noticeable loss of power and poor acceleration.
- ✔ Communication failure with diagnostic scan tools.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the 1997 Silhouette Powertrain Module is a job most DIY mechanics can handle in their own driveway. With our pre-programming service, you eliminate the most complicated step.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM vans and cars, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter housing assembly for protection. Consult a vehicle-specific repair manual if you are unsure.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and disconnect all electrical wiring harnesses from the old module. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage and clean them if necessary.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. It’s typically held in place by a few small bolts or screws.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely reconnect all wiring harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to complete a security relearn procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. This allows other modules to recognize the new PCM.
- Start and Verify: Start the engine and check for a smooth idle and ensure the Check Engine Light is off. Your repair is complete.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16218070 and 16217058. It is guaranteed to fit the following 1997 model year vehicles with the specified engines. Please ensure your vehicle is on this list before ordering.
- ✔ Achieva: 1997 w/ 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- ✔ Bonneville: 1997 w/ 3.8L (6-231) Engine (w/o supercharged option)
- ✔ Century: 1997 w/ 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- ✔ Cutlass: 1997 Supreme models
- ✔ Eighty Eight: 1997 w/ 3.8L (6-231) Engine (w/o supercharged option)
- ✔ Grand Am: 1997 w/ 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- ✔ Grand Prix: 1997 w/ 3.1L (6-191) or 3.8L (6-231) Engine (w/o supercharged option)
- ✔ LeSabre: 1997 w/ 3.8L (6-231) Engine
- ✔ Lumina Car: 1997 w/ 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- ✔ Monte Carlo: 1997 w/ 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- ✔ Regal: 1997 w/ 3.8L (6-231) Engine (w/o supercharged option)
- ✔ Silhouette: 1997 w/ 3.4L (6-207) Engine
- ✔ Skylark: 1997 w/ 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- ✔ Trans Sport: 1997 w/ 3.4L (6-207) Engine
- ✔ Venture: 1997 w/ 3.4L (6-207) Engine
Why do you need my VIN?
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the 1997 Silhouette Powertrain Module with the exact software and calibrations for your vehicle’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and function right out of the box, with no additional programming required.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes! Because we program the module to your VIN before shipping, it is a direct, plug-and-play installation. In some cases, a simple security relearn procedure (turning the key on for 10-15 minutes) may be necessary, but no special scan tools are needed.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the PCM (e.g., codes P0601-P0605), this replacement module will solve the problem. However, if the light is on for another reason, such as a faulty sensor, that component will still need to be addressed separately.
Do I need to return my old PCM?
There is no core charge or requirement to return your old, failed module. You can keep it or dispose of it responsibly.