Is Your Late 90s GM Truck or SUV Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, erratic engine behavior, stalling, or a complete no-start condition in your 1998-1999 Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, or other compatible GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is a very likely culprit. The PCM is the brain of your vehicle, controlling everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that can leave you stranded. Restore your vehicle’s reliability and performance with this direct-replacement, VIN-programmed engine computer.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I once had a ’99 Suburban towed in that had its owner chasing his tail for weeks. The truck would randomly stall and refuse to restart for an hour. The owner had replaced the fuel pump, ignition coil, and crank sensor based on forum advice, but the problem persisted. When we hooked up our professional scan tool, we noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM. After verifying all power and ground connections to the computer were solid, we knew the internal circuitry was failing. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the truck fired up instantly. It’s a classic example of how a faulty computer can mimic other component failures, making a direct-fit, programmed module the fastest and most reliable fix.
Symptoms of a Failing 1998-1999 Tahoe PCM
A failing engine computer can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to consider a replacement:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Rough or unstable idling.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and decreased engine power.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling for no apparent reason.
- ✔ No communication with the PCM when using a diagnostic scan tool.
- ✔ Unexplained electrical issues affecting gauges or other systems.
The Plug-and-Play Solution
Don’t waste time and money at a dealership. This is a genuine, used OEM PCM sourced from a salvaged vehicle, which has been thoroughly inspected and tested for full functionality. The real value is in our service: we flash the module with the latest official GM software updates and program it specifically to your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This ensures that it communicates perfectly with your truck’s specific engine, transmission, and options package. While the module itself is plug-and-play, please be aware that a security relearn procedure (often called a CASE relearn or Passlock relearn) will be necessary after installation. This procedure syncs the new computer with your vehicle’s anti-theft system and can be performed by a qualified mechanic or with a high-level diagnostic scan tool.
Guaranteed Fitment for a Wide Range of GM Vehicles
This PCM, identified by part numbers 16250279 and 09355699, is a direct replacement for a vast number of GM trucks and vans from the late 1990s. It is compatible with the following part numbers: 09355699, 16266645, 9355699, 16250279, 16258815, 09366810, and 9366810. Please verify your part number and check the detailed fitment list to ensure compatibility with your specific make, model, and engine option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to program this PCM?
No. We program the computer to your vehicle’s specific VIN before we ship it to you. Simply provide your VIN during or after checkout. It arrives ready for installation and a security relearn.
What is a security or CASE relearn?
After installing the new PCM, your vehicle’s anti-theft system (Passlock/VATS) and crankshaft position sensor data must be synchronized to the new computer. This is a standard procedure called a relearn, which requires a capable scan tool and is typically performed by a mechanic.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a fully tested, guaranteed functional OEM computer that has been sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This provides OEM quality and reliability at a fraction of the cost of a new unit.
Where can I find my vehicle’s VIN?
Your 17-digit VIN can be found on a metal plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
What if my original part number is not 16250279?
This module is a direct replacement for several service numbers. Please check the list of compatible part numbers in the description, including 09355699, 16266645, and others. As long as your number is on the list, this PCM will work perfectly.