Restore Your Van’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 1998 Chevrolet Express 1500 Van experiencing frustrating issues like stalling, rough idling, a no-start condition, or an illuminated Check Engine Light? The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer of your vehicle, is often the culprit. Over time, heat, vibration, and age can cause internal components to fail, leading to a host of confusing and intermittent problems. This replacement PCM is the definitive solution to get your hard-working van back on the road, running smoothly and dependably.
We take the guesswork and high costs out of the repair process. Unlike a generic module from a parts store or a costly trip to the dealership, this unit comes fully programmed to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We install the latest GM factory software updates before it even ships. This ensures perfect communication between the engine, transmission, and other onboard systems, restoring the original factory performance and fuel efficiency. For anyone relying on their 1998 Express 1500 PCM for work or transport, this is the most reliable and straightforward fix available.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
I had a ’98 Savana 2500 in the shop last month with a problem that was driving the owner crazy. It would start fine cold, but after a long drive and a short stop, it would just crank and crank with no start. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a random misfire code every now and then. After checking fuel pressure and spark, which were fine when it was running, I suspected the PCM. On these vans, the PCM is in the engine bay where it gets heat-soaked. I used a heat gun to carefully warm up the module, and sure enough, the van wouldn’t start. After it cooled, it fired right up. The heat was causing an internal solder joint to fail. We replaced it with a VIN-programmed module like this one, and the van has been running perfectly ever since. It’s a classic failure I’ve seen dozens of times on these GM workhorses.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light illumination.
- ✔ Stalling, hesitation, or rough running conditions.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Decreased fuel economy and poor engine performance.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored, such as P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 1998 Express 1500 PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Because we program it beforehand, you won’t need any special computer equipment.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On most 1998 Express vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the battery or firewall.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs; be gentle to avoid breaking them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed PCM into the mounting bracket.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will likely need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. This allows the vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new PCM. Your van will not start until this is completed.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 09355699, 16250279, and 09366810. It is guaranteed to fit the following GM and Isuzu models. Please verify your vehicle and original part ID to ensure compatibility.
- Astro / Safari (GMC): 1998-1999
- Blazer S10 / Jimmy S15: 1998
- Bravada: 1998
- Chevrolet / GMC Pickup (1500/2500/3500): 1998-1999
- Envoy: 1998
- Escalade: 1999
- Express / Savana Van (1500/2500/3500): 1998
- Isuzu Hombre: 1998
- S10 / S15 / Sonoma: 1998
- Suburban (1500/2500): 1998-1999
- Tahoe / Yukon: 1998-1999
Ordering this 1998 Express 1500 PCM is the first step to a reliable repair. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we’ll handle the programming, ensuring you get a part that’s ready to install right out of the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is essential for us to program the PCM with the exact software and calibrations for your van’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures seamless operation and prevents compatibility issues.
Is this part difficult to install for a DIYer?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly repair. Since the module is pre-programmed, the physical replacement involves basic hand tools. The only extra step is a simple security relearn procedure that requires no special equipment.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a failing PCM (e.g., code P0601), then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, you should always diagnose the trouble codes properly to ensure the PCM is the root cause of the problem.
Do I have to get this programmed at a dealership?
No. The main benefit of our service is that we handle all the programming for you before we ship the part. This saves you the time, hassle, and expense of a trip to the dealer.
What part numbers is this module compatible with?
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 16250279, 09366810, and 09355699.