Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 1998-1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass, Pontiac Grand Am, or other GM vehicle suffering from perplexing issues like a persistent check engine light, erratic shifting, poor fuel economy, or even a no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle. This replacement PCM, part number 16236757, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s engine and transmission to its original, factory-specified operation.
The PCM is one of the most critical components in your car, responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shift points and emissions controls. When it begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed, leading to costly and unnecessary repairs of other components. By replacing the faulty unit with our pre-programmed module, you are addressing the root cause of the problem, ensuring a reliable and lasting fix.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 1998 Buick LeSabre come into the shop with a complaint of harsh, unpredictable transmission shifting and a check engine light for a transmission pressure control solenoid. The owner had already replaced the solenoid twice at another shop with no success. After confirming the solenoid circuit was intact, we hooked up our scan tool and monitored the data coming from the PCM. We saw the command signals from the computer were erratic and inconsistent. Instead of throwing more parts at the transmission, we installed a VIN-programmed PCM. The shifting immediately returned to normal, and the code never came back. It’s a classic case where the problem wasn’t the component, but the computer controlling it.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- âś” Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) illumination
- âś” Unexplained drops in fuel mileage
- âś” Rough or inconsistent engine idle
- âś” Harsh, delayed, or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- âś” Engine stalling, stumbling, or hesitating during acceleration
- âś” Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire
- âś” Failure to pass state emissions testing
- âś” Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
Why Choose Our Programmed 1998-1999 Cutlass Powertrain Control Module?
This isn’t just a generic, off-the-shelf part. To ensure a seamless installation and proper function, we program this module specifically for your vehicle using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) you provide. This process flashes the unit with the latest GM factory software updates, which can resolve issues that were present even when the car was new. This VIN-specific programming is essential for your vehicle’s systems—including the engine, transmission, and anti-theft system (PassLock/VATS)—to communicate correctly. A non-programmed module simply will not work.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of 1998-1999 General Motors vehicles. It is compatible with multiple service numbers, ensuring it’s the right fit for your car. Compatible service numbers include: 09356741, 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314.
This part will fit the following makes and models with the specified options:
- ACHIEVA 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
- ALERO 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH center dash), 3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9357440
- BONNEVILLE 98 Electronic Control Module
- CAMARO 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L)
- CENTURY 98 Electronic Control Module; (6-191, 3.1L)
- CUTLASS 98-99 Electronic Control Module
- EIGHTY EIGHT 98 Electronic Control Module
- FIREBIRD 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L)
- GRAND AM 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
- GRAND AM 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH center dash), 3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9366314, 9357034, 9347440
- GRAND PRIX 98 Electronic Control Module
- INTRIGUE 98 Electronic Control Module
- LESABRE 98 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
- LUMINA CAR 98 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
- MALIBU 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
- MONTE CARLO 98 Electronic Control Module
- PARK AVENUE 98 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
- REGAL 98 Electronic Control Module
- RIVIERA 98 Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
- SILHOUETTE 98 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
- SKYLARK 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
- TRANS SPORT 98 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
- VENTURE 98 Electronic Control Module; (6-207, 3.4L)
Replacing your failing Cutlass Powertrain Control Module is a straightforward process that can be done with basic hand tools. Once installed, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure to sync the new module with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This procedure does not require any special tools and instructions are readily available. Get your vehicle running right again and order today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PCM and what does it do?
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is your vehicle’s main computer. It controls all aspects of the engine and transmission to ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your part until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for the part to function.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
Yes, because we program it to your VIN, it is a plug-and-play installation. However, you will need to perform a security relearn procedure after installation, which typically takes about 30 minutes and requires only your car key. This syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
What happens if I install a module that isn’t programmed?
An unprogrammed module will not work. The vehicle’s anti-theft system will prevent the car from starting, and the engine and transmission will not have the correct operational data, leading to poor performance or a no-start condition.
How can I be sure this fits my vehicle?
Please match your original part number to one of the compatible service numbers listed (16236757, 09356741, etc.) and verify your vehicle’s make, model, and year against the fitment list provided. Providing your VIN for programming is the final check that guarantees compatibility.