Is Your 1998 Buick Century Running Rough, Stalling, or Refusing to Start?
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen this story play out hundreds of times. You turn the key, and your trusty GM vehicle either cranks endlessly, idles erratically, or the check engine light is a permanent fixture on your dash. These frustrating and often intermittent issues frequently point to one component: a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle.
When the PCM begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that seem unrelated, from poor fuel economy and harsh shifting to a complete no-start condition. For many owners, the next step is a costly trip to the dealership for diagnostics and programming. But it doesn’t have to be that way. This is a direct, reliable, and affordable solution to get your vehicle running smoothly again.
The Easiest Fix: A True Plug-and-Play Solution
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete service. We take a fully tested Powertrain Control Module and flash it with the latest official GM software calibration specifically for your vehicle. All we need is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout. When the module arrives at your door, it’s ready for installation right out of the box. No expensive scan tools, no programming fees, and no trip to the dealer is required.
Expert Pro Tip from a 20-Year Veteran Technician
Before you install your new PCM, take a moment to inspect the wiring harness connectors. Over the years, the pins can develop a thin layer of corrosion or loosen up, causing poor communication. I always recommend using a small amount of electrical contact cleaner and a soft brush on both the harness-side and module-side pins. A clean, tight connection is critical for these modules and can prevent a host of intermittent issues that often get misdiagnosed as a bad PCM.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 1998 Century Powertrain Control Module
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty PCM is a very likely culprit. In my shop, I’ve found that on these late-90s GM platforms, heat cycles and age are the primary killers of these modules, leading to internal circuit failure.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with various trouble codes
- ✔ Engine cranks but will not start
- ✔ Intermittent stalling while driving or at idle
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage
- ✔ Transmission shifting erratically or harshly
- ✔ Failed emissions test
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
Simple Plug-and-Play Installation Guide
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these vehicles, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, often inside the air filter box assembly for protection.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect them for any damage or corrosion as noted in my tip above.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM securely in place.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new module until they click. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (If Needed): In some cases, a simple 10-minute key-on security relearn procedure may be necessary. The vehicle is now ready to start.
Guaranteed Fitment & Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for several original GM service numbers, ensuring broad compatibility across a range of popular vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. This part is a confirmed replacement for service numbers: 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314.
This Electronic Control Module fits the following vehicles:
- 1998-1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass
- 1998-1999 Pontiac Grand Am (3.1L, 3.4L)
- 1998-1999 Oldsmobile Alero (3.4L)
- 1998 Buick LeSabre (3.8L)
- 1998 Buick Park Avenue (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Venture (3.4L)
- 1998 Buick Riviera (3.8L)
- 1998 Buick Century (3.1L)
- 1998 Buick Skylark (3.1L)
- 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
- 1998 Oldsmobile Achieva (3.1L)
- 1998 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight
- 1998 Oldsmobile Silhouette
- 1998 Pontiac Firebird (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (3.1L)
- 1998 Oldsmobile Intrigue
- 1998 Chevrolet Lumina Car
- 1998 Pontiac Bonneville
- 1998 Chevrolet Camaro (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1998 Buick Regal
- 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport