Restore Your Vehicle’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 1997 Buick Skylark, or another compatible GM vehicle, suffering from frustrating and unpredictable issues? Problems like stalling at stoplights, erratic engine behavior, poor fuel economy, or a persistent Check Engine Light can often be traced back to a single component: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing PCM can mimic a dozen other problems, leading to wasted time and money on incorrect repairs. This replacement PCM, part number 16218070, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s brain to perfect working order.
What sets this module apart is our commitment to a seamless repair experience. Before this PCM ever leaves our facility, we program it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically matched to your car’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means you receive a true plug-and-play part. There’s no need for an expensive trip to the dealership or for specialized diagnostic tools to perform complicated programming. This is the most direct path to getting your car running smoothly again.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I once had a 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix with the 3.1L V6 in my bay—a vehicle that uses this exact PCM. The owner complained of intermittent stalling that no one could figure out. It would run fine for days, then suddenly die in traffic. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a history of random misfires. After checking fuel pressure, spark, and sensors, everything seemed fine. On a hunch, I monitored the PCM data stream and noticed the 5-volt reference signal would occasionally drop out for a split second, just before the stall. This pointed to an internal failure in the 1997 Skylark PCM. We installed a VIN-programmed module, and the problem was solved for good. It’s a classic example of how a faulty module can cause baffling symptoms.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module may need replacement:
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with codes related to internal module failure (e.g., P0601, P0605)
- âś” Engine stalls, stumbles, or misfires intermittently
- âś” Vehicle won’t start, even with a good battery and starter
- âś” Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- âś” Failure to pass an emissions test
- âś” Inconsistent or non-functional gauges
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the key benefits of this module is its simple, DIY-friendly installation process. Because we handle the programming, you can perform the swap right in your driveway.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM vehicles, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter housing or mounted to the firewall.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that may need to be gently pried up. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed 1997 Skylark PCM into place. Firmly reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring the locking tabs click into place.
- Final Step: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to run for a few minutes to complete its internal relearn processes.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16218070 and 16217058. It is guaranteed to fit the following 1997 models with the specified options:
- âś” Achieva (3.1L)
- âś” Bonneville (3.8L, w/o supercharger)
- âś” Century (3.1L)
- âś” Cutlass (Supreme)
- âś” Eighty Eight (3.8L, w/o supercharger)
- âś” Grand Am (3.1L)
- âś” Grand Prix (3.1L)
- âś” Grand Prix (3.8L, w/o supercharger)
- âś” LeSabre (3.8L)
- âś” Lumina Car (3.1L)
- âś” Monte Carlo (3.1L)
- âś” Regal (3.8L, w/o supercharger)
- âś” Silhouette (3.4L)
- âś” Skylark (3.1L)
- âś” Trans Sport (3.4L)
- âś” Venture (3.4L)
Why is providing my VIN so important?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to load the exact, correct software for your car’s specific engine, transmission, and factory options. This ensures perfect compatibility and function right out of the box.
Do I need any special tools for this job?
No. Basic hand tools like a socket set are all that’s typically required for the physical installation. No programming tools are needed because we do that part for you.
Is this a brand new part?
This is a high-quality, tested replacement part that is guaranteed to meet or exceed original equipment performance. We ensure every module is programmed with the latest software and functions correctly.
What is the difference between a PCM and an ECM?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM (Engine Control Module) traditionally controlled just the engine, while PCM (Powertrain Control Module) controls both the engine and transmission. For these vehicles, PCM is the more accurate term, but you may see it called an ECM.
Will this fix my car’s hard shifting?
In many cases, yes. The PCM directly controls the transmission’s shift points and line pressure. If the module is failing, it can cause erratic shifting, which this replacement part will correct.
How soon will you ship my part?
We program and ship your module after we receive your VIN. Please provide your VIN during or immediately after checkout to ensure the fastest possible processing and shipping.