Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your 1998-1999 Chevrolet 2500 Pickup running rough, shifting erratically, or refusing to start? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle. A faulty PCM can cause a cascade of frustrating issues, from poor fuel economy to a persistent Check Engine Light. This replacement PCM, part number 16258815, is the reliable, cost-effective solution to get your truck back to its dependable self.
This isn’t just a part in a box. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair process. Each module is a genuine, used OEM unit sourced from a salvaged vehicle, ensuring factory fit and function. More importantly, before we ship it, we program the unit with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming—it’s ready for installation right out of the box.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a ’99 Suburban come in that the owner had thrown a ton of parts at. New sensors, plugs, wires… you name it. It had an intermittent stalling problem and a weird, delayed shift from 1st to 2nd. No specific codes were pointing to a single sensor. After checking all the wiring and grounds, we suspected the PCM. We swapped in a pre-programmed module like this one, and it was like a new truck. The old PCM’s internal logic had degraded over time, causing it to misinterpret sensor data. It’s a reminder that sometimes the ‘brain’ itself is the issue, not the ‘senses’.
Diagnosing a Faulty 1998-1999 Chevy 2500 PCM
A failing PCM can manifest in numerous ways, often mimicking other component failures. If you’re experiencing several of the following symptoms, your engine computer is a likely culprit. This module is the direct solution for these common problems.
Common Symptoms of PCM Failure
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The light is on, and you may have codes related to multiple, unrelated sensors or communication errors.
- ✔ No-Start or Hard-Start: The engine cranks but won’t start, or takes an unusually long time to fire up, especially when warm.
- ✔ Poor Engine Performance: Noticeable loss of power, hesitation during acceleration, stumbling, or misfiring.
- ✔ Erratic Shifting: The transmission may shift harshly, get stuck in a gear, or shift at the wrong times.
- ✔ Reduced Fuel Economy: A sudden and unexplained drop in your truck’s gas mileage.
- ✔ Failed Emissions Test: Inability to pass smog due to PCM-related codes or improper fuel/air mixture control.
Simple Installation Process
Because we program the module to your VIN, installation is straightforward. Simply disconnect the battery, locate your old PCM in the engine bay (typically on the driver’s side), unplug the connectors, unbolt it, and swap in the new one. Once installed and the battery is reconnected, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which can typically be done without special tools. This plug-and-play solution saves you significant time and money compared to a dealership visit.
This module is a direct replacement for multiple part numbers, including 09355699, 16266645, 9355699, 16250279, 16258815, 09366810, and 9366810. It fits a wide range of GM trucks and vans from 1998-1999, including the Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, Express, GMC Sierra, Yukon, Savana, and Cadillac Escalade. Please verify your part number and check the detailed fitment list to ensure compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything after I order?
Yes. After you place your order, you MUST provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot program or ship the module without it. This ensures the PCM is a perfect match for your truck’s specific configuration.
Is this a brand new part?
No, this is a high-quality, used OEM part that has been tested and inspected. It is sourced from a salvaged vehicle and then programmed with the latest GM software for your VIN.
Will this fix my truck’s problem for sure?
This part is a direct solution for a failed PCM. While the symptoms listed are common for PCM failure, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the PCM is the root cause of your issue before purchasing.
What is the security relearn procedure?
For many GM vehicles of this era, the security system (Passlock/VATS) needs to sync with the new PCM. This usually involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeating this cycle three times. Specific instructions can be easily found online for your model.
What if my part number is not 16258815 but is on the list?
That’s perfectly fine. This module is a hardware equivalent for all the part numbers listed, including 09355699, 16266645, and others. As long as your original part number is in our interchange list, this unit will work correctly once programmed to your VIN.