Restore Your Vehicle’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 1998 Buick Regal or other GM vehicle suffering from frustrating, intermittent issues? A faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the computer brain of your car, is often the culprit behind problems like stalling, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and a persistent Check Engine Light. In my 20+ years as a technician, I’ve seen countless drivers chase expensive sensor replacements when the core issue was a failing PCM. This replacement 1998 Regal Powertrain Control Module is the definitive solution, arriving at your door pre-programmed and ready for installation.
The biggest hurdle with PCM replacement has always been the mandatory, and often costly, trip to the dealership for programming. We eliminate that step entirely. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our experts will flash this module with the latest, most stable GM software specific to your car. This ensures seamless communication between the engine, transmission, and other onboard systems, restoring the smooth operation you expect.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall
A customer brought in a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix with the 3.8L engine, a cousin to many vehicles this PCM fits. The complaint was a maddening intermittent stall at stoplights, with no Check Engine Light. Other shops had replaced the fuel pump and ignition control module to no avail. After hooking up my scan tool and monitoring live data, I noticed the PCM would momentarily lose communication just before a stall. There were no external wiring issues. We installed one of our pre-programmed PCMs, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a classic case where the internal logic of the module fails under specific conditions, a ghost in the machine that only a direct replacement can fix.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, P0605 (Internal Control Module Memory/Processor Errors)
- ✔ Engine stalls for no apparent reason
- ✔ Vehicle won’t start, but the battery and starter are good
- ✔ Noticeable drop in fuel mileage
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Engine runs rough, misfires, or hesitates
- ✔ Failure to communicate with a diagnostic scan tool
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
With the programming already handled, installation is a simple mechanical swap. This is a job most DIY enthusiasts can handle in their own garage.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM vehicles, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter box housing for protection. Consult a vehicle-specific repair manual if you’re unsure.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. These usually have a locking tab or lever that needs to be released.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock in.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to complete a brief idle relearn procedure, which typically involves starting it and letting it idle in park for a few minutes.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 9356741, is a direct replacement for service numbers 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles:
ALERO 99 (3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440)
BONNEVILLE 98
CAMARO 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
CENTURY 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
CUTLASS 98
CUTLASS 99 (ID 16236757)
EIGHTY EIGHT 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
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)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything after installing this PCM?
No. Because we program it to your VIN before shipping, it is ready for installation right out of the box. In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary, which can be found in your owner’s manual or online and typically involves cycling the key.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the part until we receive this information.
Is this part new or used?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested replacement part, guaranteed to function correctly. It is programmed with the latest official GM software for your vehicle.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM controls both engine and transmission functions. If the module is sending incorrect data, it can cause poor shifting. This part restores that critical communication link.
What is the difference between a PCM and an ECM?
The terms are often used interchangeably. PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is the more accurate term for modern vehicles as it controls both the engine (Engine Control Module – ECM) and the transmission (Transmission Control Module – TCM) functions within a single unit.
What if I have the wrong part number?
This module replaces several service numbers. Please check the ‘Verified Vehicle Compatibility’ list. If your number is listed (e.g., 16236757, 9357034), this part will work for you. Providing your VIN ensures we program it correctly for your specific vehicle options.