Is Your GM Stalling, Shifting Erratically, or Refusing to Start?
If you’re dealing with frustrating and unpredictable engine problems in your 1998 Pontiac Bonneville or another compatible GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. Over my 20+ years in the shop, I’ve seen countless late-90s GM cars come in with issues that stump most mechanics—phantom check engine lights, sudden stalls at traffic lights, and harsh, clunky transmission shifts. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re signs that the very brain of your engine is malfunctioning.
The Direct Solution: A VIN-Programmed 1998 Bonneville PCM
Forget expensive dealership visits and the hassle of finding someone with the right tools to program a replacement module. This is a direct-fit Powertrain Control Module for your vehicle, arriving at your door already flashed with the latest GM software updates specific to your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We handle the complex part so you can get back to a smooth, reliable ride. This isn’t just a part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution.
Expert Pro Tip From a 20-Year Veteran
Before installing your new PCM, take a moment to inspect and clean the main wiring harness connectors. On these GM models, the PCM is often located in the engine bay or under the dash where moisture and debris can collect. I’ve seen perfectly good replacement PCMs fail to work simply because of corrosion or a bent pin in the connector. Use a quality electronic contact cleaner and a small brush to ensure a perfect, clean connection. This simple five-minute check can save you hours of diagnostic headaches.
Common Symptoms of a Failing GM PCM:
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Engine stalling or cutting out while driving
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and reduced engine power
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
Installing your replacement module is a straightforward process you can do right in your driveway. Just provide us with your VIN during checkout, and we’ll do the rest.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the Old PCM: On most of these vehicles, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter box, or under the passenger-side dashboard.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors and unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed PCM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle is now ready to start with its new, properly calibrated engine computer.
Guaranteed Compatibility & Cross-Reference
This module is a direct replacement for several GM service numbers, ensuring wide compatibility. If your original module has one of the following numbers, this part is a guaranteed match:
Service Numbers: 09356741, 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440, 9366314
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
ACHIEVA 98 (6-191, 3.1L), ALERO 99 (3.4L), BONNEVILLE 98, CAMARO 98 (6-231, 3.8L), CENTURY 98 (6-191, 3.1L), CUTLASS 98-99, EIGHTY EIGHT 98, FIREBIRD 98 (6-231, 3.8L), GRAND AM 98-99, GRAND PRIX 98, INTRIGUE 98, LESABRE 98 (6-231, 3.8L), LUMINA CAR 98, MALIBU 98 (6-191, 3.1L), MONTE CARLO 98, PARK AVENUE 98 (6-231, 3.8L), REGAL 98, RIVIERA 98 (6-231, 3.8L), SILHOUETTE 98, SKYLARK 98 (6-191, 3.1L), TRANS SPORT 98, VENTURE 98 (6-207, 3.4L)