Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your 1998-1999 Tahoe, Suburban, or Yukon acting up? If you’re dealing with a frustrating no-start condition, rough idling, stalling, or a persistent Check Engine Light, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. After 20+ years in the garage, I’ve seen countless GM trucks from this era sidelined by PCM issues. The internal circuits can degrade from years of heat and vibration, leading to communication errors and incorrect engine commands. This isn’t just an annoyance—it affects fuel economy, emissions, and overall vehicle reliability.
This is a dependable, genuine OEM PCM that offers a direct solution. We take the guesswork and dealer-level expense out of the equation. Each unit is meticulously programmed with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle’s VIN. This critical step ensures that all systems—from the engine and transmission to the anti-theft system—function exactly as they did from the factory. You’re not just buying a part; you’re getting a fully integrated, plug-and-play fix for your 1998-1999 Tahoe PCM and many other compatible GM models.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Misleading No-Start
I once had a ’99 Suburban towed in that wouldn’t start. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump, thinking it was a fuel delivery issue—a common guess. The gauges swept, it cranked, but it would never fire. My scan tool couldn’t communicate with the PCM. After checking the main power and ground pins at the PCM connector, I knew the module itself was the problem. A failed driver circuit inside the PCM wasn’t firing the ignition coil. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, performed the security relearn, and it fired up on the first try. It saved the customer from more wasted time and money on incorrect diagnoses.
Is Your GM Truck Showing These Signs?
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start
- ✔ Rough or erratic idle
- ✔ Stalling at stops or while driving
- ✔ Poor acceleration and loss of power
- ✔ Decreased fuel mileage
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect shifting
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as P0601, P0605, or P0606 (Internal Control Module Failure)
DIY-Friendly Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side fender well.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove all wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. Avoid forcing them; they have release tabs.
- ✔ Remove the Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New PCM: Mount your new, VIN-programmed PCM into the bracket and securely re-attach the wiring harness connectors.
- ✔ Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn: This is a crucial step. You will likely need to perform a security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock or VATS relearn). This typically involves turning the key to ‘ON’ for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeating this cycle 2-3 times until the security light goes out. This syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
By purchasing this pre-programmed 1998-1999 Tahoe PCM, you bypass the need for expensive dealership programming tools, making this a job you can confidently tackle in your own driveway.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module is a direct replacement for service number 16258815 and is interchangeable with part numbers 09355699, 16266645, 16250279, and 09366810. It fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your vehicle is on this list and that the service number on your current module matches.
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline)
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline)
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 98-99 (Gasoline)
TAHOE 98-99 (Gasoline)
GMC 1500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline)
GMC 2500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline)
GMC 3500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline)
YUKON 98-99
ESCALADE 99
EXPRESS VAN 1500/2500/3500 98-99 (Gasoline)
SAVANA VAN 1500/2500/3500 98-99 (Gasoline)
ASTRO 98
SAFARI (GMC) 98
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 98 (4.3L)
S10/S15/SONOMA 98 (4.3L)
BRAVADA 98 (4.3L)
ENVOY 98 (4.3L)
ISUZU HOMBRE 98 (4.3L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything after installing this PCM?
Yes. After physical installation, you must perform a security relearn procedure. This is a simple process that syncs the new PCM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system and does not require special tools. A Crankshaft Variation (CASE) relearn may also be needed with a capable scan tool to turn off the check engine light in some cases.
What information do you need from me?
After your purchase, we require your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is essential for us to program the module with the correct software for your specific engine, transmission, and options.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. Each unit is tested for functionality before being programmed and shipped, offering you genuine GM reliability at a significant cost saving compared to a new dealer part.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM controls transmission shift points and line pressure. If the PCM is faulty, it can cause hard shifting, slipping, or failure to shift. A correctly programmed PCM restores these functions. However, this will not fix internal mechanical failures within the transmission itself.
How do I find my current PCM’s part number?
The part number (or service number) is printed on a sticker on the PCM itself. You will need to locate the module in your engine bay to read the number directly off the case.