Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain and Drivability
If you’re dealing with a frustrating check engine light, poor fuel economy, or erratic engine behavior in your 1998-1999 GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. As the central computer for your engine and transmission, a faulty PCM can cause a cascade of problems that are impossible to ignore. I’ve seen it hundreds of times in my shop: a car comes in with what seems like a major transmission issue, but after diagnostics, the root cause is simply a failing PCM that’s sending incorrect signals. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects your vehicle’s performance, reliability, and safety.
This replacement PCM, part number 9357440, is the definitive solution. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair. Before this module ever leaves our facility, we program it with the latest GM software updates specifically matched to your vehicle’s VIN. This means it arrives at your door ready for a straightforward, plug-and-play installation. No need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming—you get a reliable, cost-effective fix that restores your car’s original performance and efficiency.
Case Study: The Grand Am That Wouldn’t Shift
A customer brought in a ’99 Grand Am with the 3.4L engine, complaining of harsh, delayed shifts and a persistent check engine light. The codes pointed to transmission solenoids, but replacing them did nothing. Experience told me to look at the source. We hooked up a scope to the PCM outputs and saw erratic signals being sent to the transmission. The PCM’s internal logic was failing. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the car immediately started shifting smoothly. The problem wasn’t the transmission at all; it was the computer controlling it. This saved the customer thousands on an unnecessary transmission rebuild.
Common Signs of a Failing Powertrain Control Module
If your vehicle is exhibiting any of these symptoms, a failing PCM could be the reason. This module is designed to correct these common issues, including clearing related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0605, or P0606 (Internal Control Module Failure)
- ✔ Vehicle has a no-start or hard-starting condition
- ✔ Erratic or harsh automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy
- ✔ Engine stalling, stuttering, or misfiring
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions inspection
A Straightforward Guide to Your PCM Installation
Installing your new PCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Following these steps will help ensure a smooth process. Always consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle’s torque specs and procedures.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM models, the PCM is located either in the engine compartment (often inside the air filter box) or under the dashboard on the passenger or driver’s side.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unplug the electrical wiring harnesses from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs that must be released before they can be pulled out. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM into the bracket and secure it.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses firmly back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary. This can typically be done by turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times before starting the engine.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and interchanges with service numbers 09356741, 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314. Please confirm your vehicle is on this list:
- ACHIEVA 98 (3.1L)
- ALERO 99 (3.4L, ID 16236757)
- ALERO 99 (3.4L, ID 9356741)
- ALERO 99 (3.4L, ID 9357440)
- BONNEVILLE 98
- CAMARO 98 (3.8L)
- CENTURY 98 (3.1L)
- CUTLASS 98
- CUTLASS 99 (ID 16236757)
- EIGHTY EIGHT 98
- FIREBIRD 98 (3.8L)
- GRAND AM 98 (3.1L)
- GRAND AM 99 (3.4L, ID 16236757)
- GRAND AM 99 (3.4L, ID 9347440)
- GRAND AM 99 (3.4L, ID 9356741)
- GRAND AM 99 (3.4L, ID 9357034)
- GRAND AM 99 (3.4L, ID 9366314)
- GRAND PRIX 98
- INTRIGUE 98
- LESABRE 98 (3.8L)
- LUMINA CAR 98
- MALIBU 98 (3.1L)
- MONTE CARLO 98
- PARK AVENUE 98 (3.8L)
- REGAL 98
- RIVIERA 98 (3.8L)
- SILHOUETTE 98
- SKYLARK 98 (3.1L)
- TRANS SPORT 98
- VENTURE 98 (3.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This is the biggest benefit of our service. We program the module to your specific vehicle using the VIN you provide at checkout. It arrives ready to be installed.
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 metal plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
Is this a direct replacement for my original PCM?
Yes, this module is designed to be a direct-fit replacement for the original equipment on all the vehicles listed in our compatibility chart, provided you have one of the compatible service numbers.
Will this fix my car’s specific problem?
This module will correct any issues directly caused by a faulty PCM. It is crucial to properly diagnose your vehicle’s problem first, as this part will not fix issues with other components like bad sensors or mechanical failures.
What if I order the wrong part?
We strongly encourage you to match your part number and vehicle in the compatibility list. Providing your VIN for programming helps us double-check the fitment, but ensuring the initial selection is correct is the buyer’s responsibility. Contact us if you need help.