Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain and Get Back on the Road
Is your 1997 GM vehicle suffering from frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, poor fuel economy, stalling, or erratic transmission shifting? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the computer that serves as the central command for your engine and transmission. When it falters, your car’s performance and reliability suffer. This replacement PCM, part number 16217058, is the dependable solution you need to bring your car back to life.
Over my 20+ years in automotive diagnostics, I’ve seen countless vehicles sidelined by a faulty engine computer. The symptoms can be confusing, often mimicking other part failures. But a bad PCM can disrupt everything from fuel delivery to spark timing. Our solution eliminates the guesswork and the costly trip to a dealership. We handle the critical programming for you. Simply provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout, and we will flash this module with the latest GM software updates specific to your car. It arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 1997 Buick LeSabre that came into the shop with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights and a hard 1-2 shift. The owner had already replaced the fuel filter and spark plugs with no improvement. My scan tool showed a P0605 code (Internal Control Module Read Only Memory Error) but it was intermittent. After checking all power and ground circuits to the module—which is a critical first step—we determined the PCM itself was failing internally. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, performed the quick security relearn, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a textbook example of how a failing 1997 Skylark PCM or its equivalent in other GM models can cause driveability headaches that are simple to fix with the right part.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, or P0605 (Internal Module Memory Errors)
- âś” Vehicle will not start or is very difficult to start
- âś” Poor or erratic engine performance and stalling
- âś” Harsh or incorrect transmission shifting
- âś” A noticeable drop in fuel economy
- âś” Communication errors with your scan tool
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- âś” Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- âś” Locate the PCM: On most of these 1997 GM models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter housing or mounted to the firewall.
- âś” Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the electrical wiring harnesses from the old PCM. There are typically two or three large connectors with locking tabs.
- âś” Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- âś” Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- âś” Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- âś” Perform Security Relearn (If Necessary): Some GM vehicles require a simple key-cycle procedure to sync the new PCM with the anti-theft system. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Consult a service manual for your specific model’s procedure.
Expert Diagnosis of a 1997 Skylark PCM
Diagnosing a faulty 1997 Skylark PCM requires a methodical approach. Before condemning the module, always verify that the PCM is receiving proper voltage and has solid ground connections. A corroded ground wire can mimic a bad computer. Use a multimeter to check for 12V+ at the appropriate pins on the connector with the key on. If power and grounds are good, but you have internal module fault codes or a complete lack of communication with a scan tool, it’s a strong indicator that the PCM itself has failed. This pre-programmed unit is the most effective way to complete the repair.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16217058 and 16218070. It is guaranteed to fit the following 1997 models:
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)
GRAND PRIX – 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
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. It arrives ready for installation. In some cases, a simple key-cycle security relearn procedure may be required, which does not need any special tools.
How do I provide my VIN?
Simply enter your 17-digit VIN in the designated box during checkout, or send it to us in a message after your purchase. We cannot ship your order until we receive the VIN.
Is this part new or used?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested recycled OEM part. Each unit is verified for full functionality before being programmed with the latest software for your vehicle.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module will correct issues directly caused by a faulty PCM. While the symptoms listed are common, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle has been properly diagnosed. This part will not fix problems related to other faulty sensors or mechanical issues.
What is the warranty on this part?
This part comes with our standard warranty, guaranteeing it to be free from defects upon arrival and during the warranty period. Please see our warranty page for full details.