Restore Your Van’s Core Performance and Reliability
Is your 1998 or 1999 GMC Savana 1500 van giving you headaches with erratic behavior? A failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the vehicle’s central computer, is often the culprit behind frustrating issues like stalling, poor fuel mileage, a persistent Check Engine Light, or even a no-start condition. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty PCM can turn a dependable workhorse into an unreliable liability. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical component for your van’s engine management and overall safety.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution: a thoroughly tested, used OEM PCM, part number 09366810. The real value here is our professional programming service. Before we ship it, we flash the module with the latest official GM software updates, precisely matched to your vehicle’s VIN. This means you receive a part that is ready for installation, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. This is the most efficient way to get your 1998-1999 Savana 1500 PCM replaced and your van running smoothly again.
Real-World Repair Story
Real-World Repair Story
A local contractor brought in his ’99 Savana 2500, a sister vehicle to the 1500, with a baffling problem. It would randomly refuse to start, but only after it had been driven for a while and sat for about an hour. He had already replaced the battery and fuel pump on another shop’s advice, with no luck. When I hooked up my scan tool, I found no active codes, which is common in intermittent cases. However, by monitoring the live data stream during a test drive, I noticed the 5-volt reference signal to the sensors would occasionally drop out just before it stalled. This pointed directly to an internal failure in the PCM that only manifested when it reached a certain temperature. We swapped in a pre-programmed module like this one, and the van has been starting reliably ever since. It’s a classic case where the symptoms don’t always tell the whole story, but experience points to the root cause.
Is Your Van Exhibiting These PCM Failure Symptoms?
A failing computer can cause a wide range of problems. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty PCM could be the reason:
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light illumination
- ✔ Stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) such as P0601, P0602, or P0606
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start or has intermittent starting issues
- ✔ Rough or unstable idling
- ✔ Engine stalling or cutting out while driving
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect shifting from the automatic transmission
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM in your Savana is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Our pre-programming makes it even simpler. Follow these general steps for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes to allow all capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the PCM: On the 1998-1999 Savana Van, the PCM is typically located in the engine compartment on the left-hand (driver’s) side, often near the rear of the engine bay.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical wiring harnesses from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs; be gentle to avoid breaking them. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. There are usually a few bolts holding it in place.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click and lock into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (If Necessary): In many cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeating this cycle three times. Your van should then start normally.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This PCM, identified by service ID 09355699 or part number 09366810, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. While this listing is focused on the 1998-1999 Savana 1500 PCM, it also fits the following vehicles. Please verify the ID on your original module to ensure a perfect match.
- ✔ 1998-1999 Chevrolet & GMC C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickups (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1998-1999 Chevrolet Tahoe & GMC Yukon (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1998-1999 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 & 2500 (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1998-1999 Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana 1500, 2500, 3500 Vans (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1999 Cadillac Escalade
- ✔ 1998 Chevrolet Astro & GMC Safari
- ✔ 1998 Oldsmobile Bravada, GMC Envoy, Chevrolet S10 Blazer, GMC S15 Jimmy (4.3L)
- ✔ 1998 Chevrolet S10, GMC Sonoma, Isuzu Hombre (4.3L)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do you need my VIN?
- Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. It allows us to access the exact factory calibration file for your van’s specific engine, transmission, and options. We program the PCM with this data and the latest GM software updates, ensuring it works perfectly upon installation.
- Is this a plug-and-play part?
- Yes, because we program it to your VIN, it is designed to be a plug-and-play solution. In most cases, the only additional step is a simple security relearn procedure that you can do yourself in about 30 minutes with just the ignition key.
- What if the part numbers don’t match exactly?
- This module, part number 09366810, is interchangeable with several other part numbers, including 09355699, 16266645, 16250279, and 16258815. As long as your original module carries one of these numbers, this part will be a correct replacement.
- Is this a new computer?
- No, this is a high-quality, tested computer sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This provides a reliable and cost-effective alternative to a brand new, expensive dealership part, while still being a genuine OEM component.
- Will this fix my van’s problem for sure?
- While this part resolves the vast majority of issues listed in the symptoms section, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic. A faulty PCM can mimic other problems, like a bad sensor or wiring issue. This module will fix your van if the PCM is indeed the faulty component.