Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 1998 Buick Century or another GM vehicle suffering from frustrating issues like a persistent Check Engine Light, erratic shifting, stalling, or poor fuel economy? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer of your vehicle. In my 20+ years of hands-on diagnostics, I’ve seen how a faulty PCM can cause a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed. This isn’t just a part; it’s the solution to restoring your vehicle’s reliability and drivability.
This replacement 1998 Century Powertrain Control Module, part number 09356741, arrives at your door ready to install. We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the equation by programming the module to your specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This ensures it has the latest GM software updates and communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s systems, just like the original. No expensive trips to the dealership for programming are necessary.
Diagnosing a Faulty Powertrain Module
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with codes like P0601, P0606, or other communication errors.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or difficulty starting the engine.
- ✔ Poor or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Engine performance issues, such as rough idling, hesitation, or misfires.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a ’98 Grand Prix with an intermittent no-start condition. They had already replaced the battery, starter, and fuel pump with no luck. The car would run fine for days, then refuse to start. No codes were stored. On a hunch, I monitored the 5-volt reference signal from the PCM to the sensors while wiggling the main harness. The voltage would drop out randomly. After confirming the wiring was solid, we swapped in a pre-programmed PCM. The 5-volt reference stabilized immediately. The root cause wasn’t a bad sensor or wire, but a failing internal voltage regulator in the old PCM. The customer drove away trouble-free for the first time in months.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 1998 Century Powertrain Control Module is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Always follow proper safety procedures.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM models, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, often inside the air filter housing or mounted to the firewall. Consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle’s location.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. These connectors have locking tabs that must be released before pulling. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM in place and securely fasten it.
- Reconnect and Secure: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: Some vehicles may require a 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 PCM. Start the vehicle and check for proper operation.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. This part is compatible with service numbers 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314.
CENTURY 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
LESABRE 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
PARK AVENUE 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
RIVIERA 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
SKYLARK 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
REGAL 98
Chevrolet:
CAMARO 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
LUMINA CAR 98 (LH engine compartment)
MALIBU 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
MONTE CARLO 98
VENTURE 98 (6-207, 3.4L)
Oldsmobile:
ACHIEVA 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
ALERO 99 (3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9357440)
CUTLASS 98
CUTLASS 99 (ID 16236757)
EIGHTY EIGHT 98
INTRIGUE 98
SILHOUETTE 98 (LH engine compartment)
Pontiac:
BONNEVILLE 98
FIREBIRD 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
GRAND AM 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
GRAND AM 99 (3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9366314, 9357034, 9347440)
GRAND PRIX 98
TRANS SPORT 98 (LH engine compartment)
Choosing this pre-programmed 1998 Century Powertrain Control Module is the most efficient way to get your car back to factory-spec operation. By providing your VIN at checkout, you ensure a perfect match and a hassle-free repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘programmed to my VIN’ mean?
It means we load the module with your vehicle’s exact software and calibration files from GM before we ship it. This makes the unit plug-and-play, saving you a trip to the dealer for expensive programming.
Do I need to send you my old part?
No core charge is required for this part. You can keep or recycle your old module.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, this is a straightforward installation. The most important steps are disconnecting the battery and being careful with the wiring connectors. Please see our installation guide above.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to an internal failure of your existing PCM (common codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this part is the correct fix. However, you should always properly diagnose the codes to ensure another sensor or component is not the root cause.
What information do you need from me?
After you complete your purchase, we will need the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from your vehicle. You can typically find this on your dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on your vehicle’s registration or insurance card.