Is Your GM Vehicle Running Rough, Stalling, or Throwing Confusing Codes?
As a mechanic with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all when it comes to late-90s GM vehicles. A faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. You might be dealing with a persistent Check Engine Light, poor fuel mileage, harsh transmission shifting, or even a no-start condition that leaves you stranded. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re signs that the brain of your engine and transmission is failing.
From the Shop Floor: A Real-World Scenario
“A customer’s 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix came in last week with a classic case of what looked like a bad transmission—erratic shifting and intermittent stalling at stoplights. The codes were all over the place. Before jumping to a costly transmission replacement, we checked the basics. The culprit wasn’t mechanical; it was the original PCM. The internal processors were failing, sending corrupt data to the transmission. Installing a correctly programmed PCM like this one solved every single issue instantly. It’s a fix I’ve performed hundreds of times on these GM platforms.”
The Direct Solution: A VIN-Programmed 1998 Bonneville PCM
Don’t guess with your vehicle’s most critical component. This Powertrain Control Module is the definitive solution for a wide range of 1998-1999 GM cars and vans. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. When you order, you provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and we flash the module with the latest factory software from General Motors specifically for your vehicle. It arrives at your door ready to install, no expensive programming tools or dealer appointments required.
Key Benefits of This Module:
- ✔ VIN-Specific Programming: We load the correct software for your exact vehicle, ensuring perfect communication with all onboard systems.
- ✔ Restores Performance: Fixes common issues like poor idle, hesitation, incorrect shifting, and bad fuel economy.
- ✔ No Additional Programming Needed: This module is truly plug-and-play. Install it, and you’re ready to go.
- ✔ Latest GM Software Updates: Your module will be loaded with the newest calibrations from GM, which often resolve issues the original software had.
Simple, Straightforward Installation
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to replace your PCM. With basic hand tools, you can get your car back on the road quickly.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these vehicles, the PCM is located in the engine bay (often inside the air filter box) or under the dash on the passenger side.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed PCM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to complete a security relearn procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for several service numbers. If your original part has one of the following numbers, this is the correct part for you:
Service Numbers: 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, 9366314
This part is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- Alero: 1999 (3.4L)
- Achieva: 1998 (3.1L)
- Bonneville: 1998
- Camaro: 1998 (3.8L)
- Century: 1998 (3.1L)
- Cutlass: 1998, 1999
- Eighty Eight: 1998
- Firebird: 1998 (3.8L)
- Grand Am: 1998 (3.1L), 1999 (3.4L)
- Grand Prix: 1998
- Intrigue: 1998
- LeSabre: 1998 (3.8L)
- Lumina Car: 1998
- Malibu: 1998 (3.1L)
- Monte Carlo: 1998
- Park Avenue: 1998 (3.8L)
- Regal: 1998
- Riviera: 1998 (3.8L)
- Silhouette: 1998
- Skylark: 1998 (3.1L)
- Trans Sport: 1998
- Venture: 1998 (3.4L)