Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Van or Truck
Is your 1998-1999 GMC Savana 1500 van running rough, stalling unexpectedly, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light? A failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit behind these frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. As the brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission, a faulty PCM can disrupt everything from fuel delivery to shift points. This reliable, used OEM PCM, service ID 9355699, is the dependable solution to get your workhorse back on the road and running smoothly.
We take the guesswork and high cost out of the repair process. Unlike a standard used part, this module isn’t just pulled from a vehicle and shipped. We flash it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically programmed to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This critical step ensures seamless communication with your vehicle’s other systems and provides performance and drivability improvements from GM that your original module may be missing. This is a direct-fit, cost-effective alternative to a new dealership part, saving you time and money.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Intermittent Savana
I remember a 1999 Savana 2500 that came into the shop with a problem that was driving the owner crazy. It would randomly stall at red lights and sometimes refuse to start for 10-15 minutes. He had already replaced the fuel pump and ignition control module with no luck. After connecting my scan tool, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM. A wiggle test on the PCM connectors didn’t reproduce the fault, but a thermal test did. After a few minutes with a heat gun pointed at the module, the engine would die. The internal circuits were failing under heat soak. We installed one of our VIN-programmed PCMs, and the van ran perfectly. It’s a classic example of how a failing 1998-1999 Savana 1500 PCM can mimic other component failures, costing you time and money on unnecessary parts.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty engine computer could be the root cause. A failing PCM can trigger a variety of confusing symptoms and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0605, or P0606 (Internal Control Module Errors).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough idling, especially when warm.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ No communication with the PCM when using a scan tool.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your pre-programmed 1998-1999 Savana 1500 PCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Following these steps will ensure a smooth process.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- Locate the PCM: On the 1998-1999 Savana/Express vans, the PCM is typically located in the engine compartment, on the left-hand (driver’s) side, near the rear of the engine bay.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove all electrical harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors are color-coded and keyed, so they only fit in their correct slots.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you will need it to install the new unit.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: On many of these GM vehicles, you must perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called the Passlock relearn). This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Consult your vehicle’s service information for the exact procedure. This allows the new PCM to recognize your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This PCM is a direct replacement for service ID 9355699 and part numbers including 16258815, 09355699, 16266645, 16250279, and 09366810. It is guaranteed to fit a wide range of GM trucks and vans. Please verify your vehicle is on this list:
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 98 (RH front engine compartment)
BRAVADA 98 (4.3L)
CADILLAC ESCALADE 99 (LH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 98-99
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 98-99 (Gasoline)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 98-99 (Gasoline)
GMC 1500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
GMC 2500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
GMC 3500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
ENVOY 98 (RH front engine compartment)
ISUZU HOMBRE 98 (4.3L)
S10/S15/SONOMA 98 (4.3L)
SAFARI (GMC) 98 (LH front by battery)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 98-99
SAVANA 2500 VAN 98-99 (Gasoline)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 98-99 (Gasoline)
SUBURBAN 1500 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
SUBURBAN 2500 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
TAHOE 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
YUKON 98-99 (LH engine compartment)
Frequently Asked Questions
1998-1999 Savana 1500 PCM
Will this fix my vehicle’s problem for sure?
This part will fix your vehicle if the PCM is the source of the fault. While the symptoms listed are very common for a failed , we always recommend proper diagnostics to confirm the PCM is the issue before ordering.