Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your 1998-1999 GMC 3500, Chevrolet Silverado, or Express/Savana van running rough, stalling, or showing a persistent check engine light? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM is the brain of your vehicle’s engine, controlling everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shift points. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. This genuine, used OEM engine computer, part number 16258815, is the reliable and cost-effective solution to get your vehicle back on the road and running like new.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a ’99 Chevy Suburban come in that the owner had thrown a ton of parts at. It had a random misfire, terrible fuel economy, and would occasionally stall at red lights. He had replaced the plugs, wires, cap, rotor, and even the fuel pump. The codes were all over the place. After confirming fuel pressure and spark were solid, we hooked up our scanner and looked at the live data. The sensor readings were erratic, jumping all over the place for no reason. This pointed directly to the PCM. The internal processors were failing, corrupting the data. We installed one of these VIN-programmed modules, performed the quick security relearn, and the truck ran perfectly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the issue isn’t a sensor, but the computer reading it.
Is a Failing PCM the Source of Your Problems?
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways, often mimicking other component failures. This can lead to costly and time-consuming misdiagnoses. Before you replace another sensor, check if your vehicle is exhibiting any of the common symptoms of PCM failure. Getting the correct diagnosis is the first step, and this module is the final solution for a wide variety of electronic issues.
Common Symptoms of a Bad PCM
- ✔️ Check Engine Light is on with various, often inconsistent, error codes.
- ✔️ Engine stalling or cutting out unexpectedly while driving.
- ✔️ Difficulty starting the engine or a complete no-start condition.
- ✔️ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔️ Rough idling, hesitation, or stumbling during acceleration.
- ✔️ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔️ Failure to pass an emissions test.
The Simple, Plug-and-Play Solution for Your 1998-1999 GMC 3500 PCM
Forget expensive dealership visits and the hassle of finding a shop with the right equipment to program a new module. We take all the guesswork out of the process. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash this computer with the latest, most up-to-date software directly from GM for your specific vehicle configuration. This ensures that the module communicates perfectly with your engine, transmission, and all other systems right out of the box. This is a genuine, used OEM part, ensuring the same quality and durability as the original unit that came in your truck.
Installation is straightforward for any DIY mechanic. In most cases, it involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connectors from the old PCM, unbolting it from its bracket in the engine bay, and installing the new one in its place. Once installed, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called VATS or Passlock), which can typically be done without any special tools. Instructions for this are widely available online or in your vehicle’s service manual.
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 engine and transmission operation to ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. It takes data from sensors all over the vehicle and makes real-time adjustments.
Is this part ready to install out of the box?
Yes! This PCM is programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it ships. This makes it a direct-fit replacement. In some cases, a simple security relearn procedure that you can do yourself is required after installation for the vehicle to start.
How do I find my vehicle’s 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.
Why is providing my VIN so important?
The VIN allows us to load the exact GM-certified software for your vehicle’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and prevents a host of potential performance issues.
What if my original part number is different from 16258815?
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 09355699, 16266645, and others listed in the description. As long as your vehicle is listed in the compatibility chart, this module will work when programmed to your VIN.
Is this a used part?
Yes, this is a thoroughly tested, genuine OEM computer sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This provides OEM reliability at a fraction of the cost of a new part from the dealer.