Is Your 1998-1999 GMC Safari Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with a 1998 or 1999 GMC Safari van that’s suddenly developed a mind of its ownโstalling at stoplights, shifting erratically, or refusing to start altogetherโyou’re likely facing a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer of your vehicle, the PCM is responsible for managing everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shift points. After two decades of heat, vibration, and countless electrical cycles, the original module’s internal components can begin to break down, leading to a host of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems.
Common Symptoms of a Failing GMC Safari PCM
In my 20+ years as a technician, I’ve seen these specific GM PCMs cause symptoms that can easily mislead you into replacing perfectly good sensors or other parts. Before you spend another dollar on guesswork, see if your Safari is exhibiting any of these classic signs of PCM failure:
- โ Unexplained stalling, especially after the engine has warmed up.
- โ Harsh or delayed automatic transmission shifting.
- โ The engine cranks but refuses to start, with no spark or fuel injector pulse.
- โ A persistent Check Engine Light with seemingly unrelated trouble codes.
- โ Poor fuel economy and a noticeable loss of power.
- โ The scan tool cannot communicate with the PCM.
Expert Pro Tip: The “No-Comms” Dead End
A common scenario I’ve diagnosed hundreds of times on these GM vans and trucks is a complete communication failure. You plug in a code reader, and it says it can’t connect to the vehicle. While this could be a wiring issue, it’s very often a sign that the PCM itself has an internal short or has completely failed. The module is located by the battery on the driver’s side, where it’s susceptible to corrosion from battery fumes, which can damage the case and internal circuits over time. Always check the PCM and its connectors for green or white corrosion first.
The Plug-and-Play Solution: A VIN-Programmed PCM
Replacing the PCM used to mean a costly trip to the dealership for installation and programming. We’ve eliminated that step. This Powertrain Control Module is the reliable, cost-effective solution to get your GMC Safari back in prime condition. When you order from us, we don’t just send you a part off the shelf. We take your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This ensures that the computer is perfectly matched to your van’s specific engine, transmission, and factory options.
Why is VIN Programming Critical?
- โ Guaranteed Compatibility: Your VIN tells us everything we need to know to load the correct software, eliminating compatibility errors.
- โ Latest GM Updates: We install the newest software revisions, which often correct drivability issues and bugs present in the original factory programming.
- โ No Dealer Visit Needed: The module arrives at your door ready for installation. Simply disconnect the battery, swap the old module with the new one, reconnect the battery, and you’re ready to go.
- โ Security System Relearn: On these specific models, the vehicle’s security system will typically perform a simple, automatic relearn procedure once the new PCM is installed. We provide easy-to-follow instructions for this process.
Guaranteed Fitment and Cross-Compatibility
This PCM, part number 09355699, is a direct replacement for several original GM service numbers. If your old module has one of the following numbers on its label, this unit is the correct replacement for you:
- โ 16250279
- โ 09366810
- โ 09355699
While this listing is for the 1998-1999 GMC Safari, this versatile module was also used in a wide range of other GM trucks, vans, and SUVs from the same era, including the Chevy Astro, S10, Blazer, C/K Pickups, Tahoe, and Suburban. Providing your VIN ensures we deliver the exact programming your specific vehicle requires for flawless operation.
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your reliable GMC Safari off the road. Order today, provide your VIN, and get a professionally programmed, ready-to-install PCM delivered right to your door.