Is Your 1998 S10 or Sonoma Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with a frustrating no-start condition, a check engine light that won’t go away, erratic shifting, or a rough idle on your 1998 Chevy S10, GMC Sonoma, or another compatible GM vehicle, the culprit is often the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the electronic brain of your truck, when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing and hard-to-diagnose problems. After 20+ years of spinning wrenches, I’ve seen these exact issues hundreds of time on these specific trucks.
“A customer’s 1998 GMC Sonoma came in last week with these exact symptoms. It would crank but not start, and when it occasionally did, it ran so rich you could smell the unburnt fuel. The parts cannon had already been fired at itโnew plugs, wires, even a fuel pump. After a quick scan and checking the 5-volt reference, it was clear the PCM was the problem. We swapped in one of our pre-programmed modules, and it fired right up and idled perfectly. It’s a classic failure on these models.”
The Expert Solution: A Pre-Programmed, Reliable PCM
Don’t waste time and money chasing down ghosts in the machine. This Powertrain Control Module is the definitive solution, arriving at your doorstep completely programmed to your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This isn’t a generic, one-size-fits-all part. We load it with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM, which often correct drivability problems that were present even when the truck was new.
The PCM is the central command for your engine and transmission. It controls everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shift points and emissions equipment. The original modules from this era are prone to failure from years of heat cycles, vibration, and internal component aging. Our modules are meticulously inspected and tested to ensure they restore factory performance and reliability.
Why VIN Programming is Essential
Ordering a PCM without VIN programming is a recipe for disaster. Your truck’s VIN tells the module critical information about its factory-installed options:
- โ Engine size (4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L, etc.)
- โ Transmission type (automatic or manual)
- โ Emissions equipment (Federal or California)
- โ Security system (Passlock/VATS)
Without the correct programming, your truck may not start, will run poorly, or will display a persistent check engine light. Our service eliminates this headache. You provide your VIN, and we handle the rest, ensuring a true plug-and-play installation.
Guaranteed Compatibility and Fitment
This module is a direct replacement for several GM part numbers, ensuring it’s the right part for the job. Please verify that your original module has one of the following service numbers printed on the label:
- โ 09355699
- โ 16250279
- โ 16258815
- โ 09366810
This PCM is a confirmed fit for a wide range of 1998-1999 GM trucks and vans, including the Chevy S10, GMC Sonoma, Blazer, Jimmy, Tahoe, Yukon, Suburban, Express/Savana vans, and more. For the S10/Sonoma/Blazer platform, you’ll typically find it located in the right-hand (passenger side) front of the engine compartment. For full-size trucks and vans, it’s often on the left-hand (driver’s side). Checking your original part number is the best way to guarantee a perfect match.
Simple Installation Process
Once you receive your VIN-programmed module, installation is straightforward. You’ll simply disconnect the battery, unplug the electrical connectors from your old PCM, unbolt it, and install the new one in its place. Reconnect the connectors and the battery. In most cases, a security relearn procedure may be required, which is a simple process you can do yourself in about 10-30 minutes with just the ignition key. No expensive dealer visit is necessary for programming.