Is Your 1997 GM Vehicle Running Rough? The PCM Might Be the Culprit.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless 1997 GM vehicles—from the Pontiac Trans Sport to the Buick LeSabre—come into the shop with baffling issues. Intermittent stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent Check Engine Light, and poor fuel economy can often be traced back to one component: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This module is the brain of your engine and transmission, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that are frustrating to diagnose. This isn’t just a part; it’s the solution to restoring your vehicle’s reliability and performance.
We offer a dependable, direct-fit replacement PCM compatible with part numbers 16217058 and 16218070. The best part? We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the equation. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our specialists will program the module with the latest GM software updates specific to your car. This means it arrives at your door ready to install, with no need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. This is the most efficient way to get your car back to factory-spec operation.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 1997 Buick Regal with the 3.8L V6 that had everyone stumped. It had a random, harsh 1-2 shift and would occasionally stall at red lights, but threw no specific transmission codes—only a generic P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error). The owner had already replaced the mass airflow sensor and idle air control valve with no luck. After confirming power and grounds to the PCM were solid, we swapped in a known-good programmed module. The difference was immediate. The shifts smoothed out, the idle stabilized, and the code never returned. It’s a classic case where the internal logic of the original 1997 Trans Sport PCM (and its counterparts) had simply failed after years of heat cycles and electrical stress.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Your vehicle fails to start or starts intermittently.
- ✔ The engine stalls unexpectedly while driving or at idle.
- ✔ Noticeably poor fuel mileage and engine performance.
- ✔ The automatic transmission shifts harshly, late, or erratically.
- ✔ The Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, P0605, or P0606.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to ensure all systems are discharged.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these 1997 GM models, the PCM is located inside the air filter box housing in the engine bay. You will need to remove the air filter cover to access it.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip and disconnect the electrical wiring harnesses from the old module. These connectors have locking tabs, so be gentle to avoid breaking them.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket or housing. It’s typically held in place by a few small bolts.
- ✔ Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in the same location, securing it with the original bolts.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new PCM until they click into place. Reassemble the air filter housing and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Final Step: Depending on your vehicle, a security relearn procedure may be necessary. This often involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Consult your vehicle’s specific procedure if needed.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a guaranteed fit for the following 1997 models. We program it specifically for your VIN to ensure perfect function with your engine and options.
- ✔ Achieva: 1997, 6-191 (3.1L)
- ✔ Bonneville: 1997, (6-231, 3.8L), w/o supercharged option
- ✔ Century: 1997, (6-191, 3.1L)
- ✔ Cutlass: 1997, Supreme
- ✔ Eighty Eight: 1997, (6-231, 3.8L), w/o supercharged option
- ✔ Grand Am: 1997, 6-191 (3.1L)
- ✔ Grand Prix: 1997, 6-191 (3.1L) & 6-231 (3.8L) w/o supercharged option
- ✔ LeSabre: 1997, (6-231, 3.8L)
- ✔ Lumina Car: 1997, 6-191 (3.1L)
- ✔ Monte Carlo: 1997, 6-191 (3.1L)
- ✔ Regal: 1997, (6-231, 3.8L), w/o supercharged option
- ✔ Silhouette: 1997, (6-207, 3.4L)
- ✔ Skylark: 1997, 6-191 (3.1L)
- ✔ Trans Sport: 1997, (6-207, 3.4L) – A perfect replacement 1997 Trans Sport PCM.
- ✔ Venture: 1997, (6-207, 3.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this module programmed?
No. We handle all the programming for you before shipment. Just provide your VIN when you order, and the module will arrive ready to install.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested module that has been restored to full functionality and programmed with the latest software for your vehicle.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM controls engine and transmission functions. If your shifting issues are caused by faulty electronic commands from a failing PCM, this part will resolve them.
Where do I find my VIN?
Your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on a small plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
What if my part number isn’t an exact match?
This module directly replaces part numbers 16217058 and 16218070. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, we will program it to function correctly, even if your original part number differs.