Is Your 1998 Buick Regal Running Out of Ideas?
If you’re dealing with a frustrating no-start condition, erratic shifting, a persistent check engine light, or poor fuel economy, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer for your engine and transmission, when the PCM starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing and costly issues. I’ve seen it hundreds of times in the shop: a perfectly good engine that runs terribly simply because its electronic brain is malfunctioning.
From the Shop Floor: “A customer’s 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix, which uses this exact same PCM, came in on a tow truck. It would crank but never start. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and ignition coils. After a quick scan, I found no communication with the PCM. We checked the power and ground pins at the module connector—all good. The diagnosis was a dead PCM. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and the car fired right up. It’s a common failure point I’ve diagnosed on these GM 3.8L and 3.1L platforms for over two decades.”
The Direct Solution: A 1998 Regal Powertrain Control Module Programmed for You
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the repair. Before we ship your module, our technicians will flash it with the latest GM-certified software, precisely calibrated to your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This ensures that all factory settings for your engine, transmission, and emissions systems are perfectly restored.
Symptoms of a Failing GM PCM:
- ✔ Check Engine Light (CEL) with communication error codes (U-codes).
- ✔ Harsh or delayed transmission shifting.
- ✔ Engine cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling or rough idling.
- ✔ Drastic decrease in fuel mileage.
- ✔ Failure to pass emissions testing.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
Save yourself the time, hassle, and high cost of a dealership visit. This module is designed for a straightforward DIY installation. Here’s a general guide for these GM vehicles:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these models, the PCM is located inside the air filter housing in the engine bay. You will need to remove the air filter cover to access it.
- Disconnect Harnesses: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Press the release tabs firmly and pull straight out.
- Swap the Module: Remove any clips or bolts holding the old PCM in place and swap it with your new, pre-programmed unit.
- Reconnect Everything: Securely plug the wiring harnesses into the new PCM until they click. Reassemble the air filter housing and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Your vehicle may need to complete a security relearn procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Your vehicle is then ready to start.
Expert Pro Tip: Before plugging in your new PCM, take a moment to inspect the harness connector pins. Over 20+ years, it’s common for a green, powdery corrosion to build up on the pins, causing poor contact. Use a small pick or brush and some quality electronic contact cleaner to gently clean both the male and female pins. A clean connection is critical for the long-term health of your new module.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for units with the following service numbers: 09356741, 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314. It is compatible with a wide range of 1998 and 1999 GM vehicles, including the Buick LeSabre & Park Avenue, Chevrolet Lumina & Monte Carlo, Oldsmobile Cutlass & Intrigue, and Pontiac Bonneville & Grand Prix. Please verify your service number or contact us with your VIN to confirm fitment.