Restore Your Van’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 1998-1999 GMC Savana 3500 Van running rough, stalling unexpectedly, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times. Often, the root cause isn’t a sensor or a mechanical part, but the vehicle’s brain—the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). When the PCM fails, it can create a cascade of confusing problems, from poor fuel economy and erratic shifting to a frustrating no-start condition. This isn’t just an inconvenience; for a work van, it’s lost time and money.
This is a reliable, OEM Powertrain Control Module, service number 16250279, meticulously tested and ready for installation. The biggest hurdle with PCM replacement is the programming, which typically requires expensive dealer tools. We eliminate that problem entirely. Before we ship this module, we will flash it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically matched to your vehicle using your VIN. This ensures that it communicates perfectly with your van’s engine, transmission, and other systems, restoring its original operational parameters. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a complete, ready-to-install solution.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a customer with a ’99 Express van—the same platform as this Savana—that had an intermittent stalling issue that no one could figure out. It would run fine for days, then die at a stoplight. No consistent codes were stored, just a few random communication errors. After checking all the usual suspects (fuel pump, ignition system), we focused on the PCM. On these older GM vehicles, the internal capacitors and board traces can degrade from years of heat cycles under the hood. We swapped in a pre-programmed PCM like this one, and the problem vanished instantly. It’s a classic failure mode that a simple part swap can fix, provided the programming is done correctly beforehand.
Is Your Van Exhibiting These PCM Failure Signs?
A failing PCM can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution your 1998-1999 Savana 3500 Van PCM needs.
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light illumination
- ✔ Stalling, stumbling, or rough idling
- ✔ The engine will not start or is hard to start
- ✔ Poor or inconsistent automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as P0601, P0605, or other U-series communication codes.
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
Installing your pre-programmed PCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Here’s a general guide:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On most Savana/Express vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, on the driver’s side, often near the battery or air filter housing.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical wiring harness connectors. These have locking tabs, so be gentle to avoid breaking them. Note their color and orientation.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. There are typically a few bolts holding it in place.
- Install the New Module: Mount your replacement PCM onto the bracket and securely fasten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the correct sockets on the new PCM until they click securely in place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Security Relearn Procedure: After installation, you will likely need to perform a simple security relearn (often called a Passlock or VATS relearn). This procedure typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. This allows the new PCM to recognize your vehicle’s key. Consult a service manual for the exact steps for your model.
Verified Compatibility for Your GM Truck or Van
This module is a direct replacement for part number 16250279 and service ID 9355699. It is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles from this era. Please verify your part number or confirm fitment with the list below. This part fits your 1998-1999 Savana 3500 Van PCM and many others:
- ✔ 1998-1999 Chevrolet & GMC C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickups (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1998-1999 Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana 1500, 2500, 3500 Vans (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1998-1999 Chevrolet Suburban & GMC Suburban 1500, 2500 (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1998-1999 Chevrolet Tahoe & GMC Yukon (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1999 Cadillac Escalade
- ✔ 1998 Chevrolet Astro & GMC Safari
- ✔ 1998 Chevrolet S10, GMC Sonoma, Isuzu Hombre (4.3L)
- ✔ 1998 Chevrolet Blazer, GMC Jimmy, Oldsmobile Bravada, GMC Envoy (4.3L)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming work?
After you place your order, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We use this to load the exact, correct GM calibration file for your specific engine, transmission, and options. This makes the module ready to install when it arrives.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, tested used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This provides OEM reliability and function at a fraction of the cost of a new unit from the dealer.
Will I need to do anything else after installation?
Besides the simple security relearn procedure mentioned in the installation guide, no further programming is needed. In some cases, a Crankshaft Position Sensor (CASE) relearn may be required to clear a P1336 code, which can be done by most professional scan tools at any local repair shop.
Why choose a pre-programmed module?
It saves you time, money, and hassle. Without pre-programming, you would have to get your vehicle towed to a dealership or a shop with expensive flashing equipment, adding hundreds of dollars to your repair bill. Our service delivers a part that’s ready to go.
What if my original part number is different?
This module replaces several part numbers, including 09355699, 16266645, 16258815, and more. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list and your original module is ID 9355699, this part will function correctly once programmed to your VIN.