Is Your Late-90s GM Truck or SUV Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with frustrating and unpredictable issues in your 1998-1999 Chevrolet Suburban 2500, or another compatible GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the hidden culprit. This component is the central brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission, and when it starts to malfunction, it can cause a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose. From a persistent check engine light to poor fuel economy, hard starting, or erratic shifting, a faulty PCM can make your reliable workhorse feel unpredictable and unsafe. Don’t let a bad computer sideline your vehicle. This is the direct, reliable solution you need to restore its performance and dependability.
The Right Solution: A VIN-Programmed 1998-1999 Suburban PCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a fully integrated solution for your vehicle. We offer a genuine, used GM PCM, service number 9355699, that is professionally programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures that the computer has the correct software and calibrations for your truck’s engine, transmission, and factory options. By flashing the module with the latest updates from General Motors, we ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. The result is a simple, plug-and-play installation process that eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a ’99 Tahoe come into the shop that was driving the owner crazy. It would randomly stall at stoplights, the transmission would shift hard from first to second, and the check engine light would come and go with no consistent codes. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump, spark plugs, and a few sensors with no luck. After checking all the wiring and grounds, we hooked up our scope to the PCM outputs. We found intermittent, noisy signals to the injectors and ignition coil. We swapped in one of our VIN-programmed PCMs, and it was like a different truck. The idle smoothed out, the shifting became seamless, and all the random electrical gremlins vanished. It’s a classic case of a failing computer causing phantom problems that look like something else entirely.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various or no specific codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A sudden, unexplained decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Difficulty starting the engine, or a complete no-start condition.
- ✔ Failure to communicate with a diagnostic scan tool.
- ✔ Loss of power or sluggish acceleration.
Guaranteed Compatibility and Easy Installation
This PCM, identified by part numbers 09355699, 16266645, 16250279, 16258815, 09366810, and 9366810, fits a wide array of GM trucks, vans, and SUVs from the 1998-1999 model years. We’ve compiled an extensive list of compatible vehicles below to ensure you’re ordering the correct part. The process is simple: place your order, provide us with your VIN, and we’ll handle the programming. Once you receive the module, simply disconnect your battery, swap the old computer with the new one, reconnect the battery, and you’re ready to go. In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary, which is a simple process that can be done without any special tools. Getting your truck back to factory-spec operation has never been easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send you my old computer?
No, there is no core charge or need to send your old PCM back to us. This is a direct purchase of a replacement module.
What is VIN programming and why is it necessary?
VIN programming involves loading your vehicle’s specific software and calibrations onto the PCM. This ensures the computer works correctly with your engine, transmission, and other factory-installed systems. Without it, the vehicle may not start or run properly.
Where do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we receive this information.
Is this a new part?
This is a high-quality, used, genuine GM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. Each unit is inspected and tested to ensure it is fully functional before being programmed and shipped.
Will I need to do anything else after installing it?
In most cases, this is a plug-and-play installation. However, some GM vehicles of this era may require a security relearn procedure (also known as a CASE relearn or Passlock relearn) to sync the new PCM with the vehicle’s anti-theft system. This procedure can typically be done in your driveway and instructions are widely available online.