Restore Your Van’s Brain and Get Back to Work
Is your Savana 2500 van giving you headaches with a persistent Check Engine Light, erratic shifting, or a frustrating no-start condition? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times, and they often point directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the central computer of your vehicle, managing everything from fuel delivery and spark timing to transmission shifts. When it fails, your reliable workhorse can become a major liability.
This is your straightforward, cost-effective solution. We are offering a reliable, tested, used OEM Powertrain Control Module, part number 09355699. The biggest hurdle with replacing a PCM is the need for expensive dealership programming. We eliminate that step entirely. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, and my team will flash this computer with the latest official GM software specific to your van. It will arrive at your door ready for installation, saving you time, towing fees, and the high cost of dealer service. This is the smart fix for both seasoned mechanics and determined DIYers.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall
I remember a 1999 Express van—nearly identical to the Savana—that came into my shop with a ghost of a problem. The owner, a plumber, said it would run perfectly for days, then suddenly stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for 20 minutes. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a history of random communication errors. We checked fuel pressure, ignition components, and wiring harnesses, but everything tested fine. On a hunch, I put a scope on the PCM’s main power and ground circuits. After letting the van idle for an hour, I saw the voltage signal to the fuel pump relay driver inside the PCM suddenly drop out. The internal board was failing under heat soak. We swapped in a VIN-programmed PCM like this one, and the van never had the issue again. That’s the kind of hard-to-diagnose problem a failing 1998-1999 Savana 2500 PCM can cause.
Is Your GM Truck or Van Showing These Signs?
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with communication-related codes (e.g., P0601, P0605).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ The vehicle stalls unexpectedly and may be hard to restart.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test.
- ✔ Your scan tool cannot communicate with the engine computer.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your replacement 1998-1999 Savana 2500 PCM is a manageable job for anyone with basic tools. Follow these steps to 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 any accidental reconnection.
- Locate the PCM: On most Savana and Express vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side near the rear of the engine bay. On some trucks and SUVs, it’s on the driver’s side inner fender.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released. Inspect them for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. It’s usually held in by a few small bolts.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely fasten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new PCM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: In many cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called Passlock or Passkey relearn) so the vehicle recognizes the new PCM. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times before starting the engine. Instructions are easily found online for your specific model.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, identified by part number 09355699, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. It is interchangeable with part numbers 16266645, 16250279, 16258815, and 09366810. Please verify your vehicle is on this list and that your original module carries one of these part numbers for guaranteed compatibility.
EXPRESS/SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN (1998-1999)
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 (1998-1999)
TAHOE/YUKON (1998-1999)
CADILLAC ESCALADE (1999)
ASTRO/SAFARI VAN (1998)
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 (1998)
S10/S15/SONOMA (1998)
OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA (1998)
ISUZU HOMBRE (1998)
Note: Please match the ID 09355699 from your original module.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the PCM with the exact software and calibrations your specific vehicle requires. This ensures proper engine and transmission function, and compatibility with your vehicle’s options without needing a trip to the dealer.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, tested used OEM part carefully removed from a salvaged vehicle. This provides OEM reliability at a fraction of the cost of a new unit.
Will I need to do anything after installation?
After installing the PCM and reconnecting the battery, you will likely need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This process syncs the new computer to your vehicle’s anti-theft system and can be done in your driveway without any special tools.
What is the difference between a PCM and an ECM?
ECM (Engine Control Module) and PCM (Powertrain Control Module) are often used interchangeably. A PCM is technically an ECM that also controls the transmission and other powertrain functions, which is standard on most automatic vehicles like the Savana.
How do I find my part number?
The part number is printed on a sticker on the case of your original PCM. You will need to locate and remove the module to read it. Matching the part number is the best way to ensure compatibility.