Is Your GM Vehicle Running Erratically?
If your 1998 Buick Regal, Grand Prix, or another late-90s GM vehicle is experiencing baffling issues like a persistent check engine light, harsh transmission shifts, poor fuel economy, or even a frustrating no-start condition, the root cause is often the very brain of your vehicle: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Over time, the internal components of these modules can fail due to heat cycles and vibration, leading to a host of problems that can be difficult to diagnose.
My Real-World Experience: “A customer’s 1998 Buick LeSabre with the 3.8L V6 came into my shop last month. The owner had already spent hundreds replacing the crank sensor and ignition control module, but it still had an intermittent no-start. After confirming all the wiring was solid, we scoped the injector signals and found the PCM wasn’t firing them correctly. A new, properly programmed PCM like this one was the solution. It’s a classic case I’ve seen dozens of times—the PCM fails in a way that mimics other sensor failures, leading to wasted time and money.”
The Plug-and-Play Solution You Need
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair by programming this module specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. This ensures it communicates perfectly with all other systems, just as the factory intended.
- ✔ VIN-Specific Programming: Arrives flashed with the latest GM software updates for your exact vehicle.
- ✔ Restores Performance: Corrects common issues like poor idle, hesitation, and incorrect transmission shifting.
- ✔ Cost-Effective Repair: A direct-fit solution that eliminates the need for a costly programming appointment at a dealership.
- ✔ Broad Compatibility: Replaces a wide range of original equipment service numbers, ensuring a perfect match.
Easy Installation Guide
You can do this repair at home with basic tools. Follow these steps to get your car back on the road quickly.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electronic work.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM vehicles (like the Regal, Grand Prix, and Lumina), the PCM is conveniently located inside the air filter housing in the engine bay. This protects it and keeps it cool.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the large wiring harness connectors. There are typically locking tabs that need to be gently pried up. Once disconnected, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Seat the new PCM onto the bracket and tighten the bolts. Firmly plug in the wiring harness connectors, ensuring you hear and feel them click securely into place.
- Reconnect and Finalize: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle may require a simple security relearn procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. This allows the anti-theft system to recognize the new module.
Expert Pro Tip:
Before installing your new PCM, take a moment to inspect the vehicle’s wiring harness connectors for any green or white crusty corrosion, or any bent pins. A poor connection is a leading cause of intermittent electrical faults and can damage a new module. Use a quality electronic contact cleaner on the harness side to ensure a perfect, long-lasting connection.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This module, part number 9356741, is a direct replacement for several original service numbers, including: 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- Alero (99)
- Achieva (98)
- Bonneville (98)
- Camaro (98, 3.8L)
- Century (98)
- Cutlass (98-99)
- Eighty Eight (98)
- Firebird (98, 3.8L)
- Grand Am (98-99)
- Grand Prix (98)
- Intrigue (98)
- LeSabre (98)
- Lumina Car (98)
- Malibu (98)
- Monte Carlo (98)
- Park Avenue (98)
- Regal (98)
- Riviera (98)
- Silhouette (98)
- Skylark (98)
- Trans Sport (98)
- Venture (98)
IMPORTANT: After purchase, please provide us with your 17-digit VIN to ensure we can program the module for your specific vehicle before shipment. This step is crucial for a successful installation.