Restore Your Van’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 1998 GMC Savana 3500 van running rough, stalling unexpectedly, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I know how frustrating these issues can be, especially when your vehicle is your livelihood. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is the brain of your engine and transmission, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a reliable, long-term solution to get your workhorse back on the road and running strong.
This module, part number 09355699, is a direct-fit replacement for your original unit. The best part? We handle the programming for you. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our experts will flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This critical step ensures seamless communication with your van’s specific systems, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a component that’s ready to install right out of the box.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A few months back, a local contractor brought in his ’98 Savana 3500. The van had an intermittent no-start condition and would occasionally stall at stoplights. He’d already replaced the fuel pump and ignition coil, but the problem persisted. No hard codes were stored, just a pending P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) that would come and go. After verifying power and grounds to the PCM, we knew the module itself was the culprit. These older PCMs can suffer from failing capacitors or cracked solder joints, causing unpredictable behavior. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, performed the security relearn, and the van has been running flawlessly ever since. It saved him from guessing and replacing more expensive parts.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty PCM could be the root cause. A failing module can often mimic other component failures, making diagnosis tricky. Look out for:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on, especially with codes like P0601, P0602, or P0605.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling, rough idling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 1998 Savana 3500 PCM is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour with basic hand tools. Our pre-programming makes it a simple swap.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On most 1998 Savana vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the battery or firewall.
- Disconnect the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old PCM: Unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New PCM: Mount the new module securely in the bracket and firmly reconnect the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will likely need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. Typically, this involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeating this cycle three times. This allows the vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new PCM.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a guaranteed fit for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. Please verify your part number (16250279, 09366810, or 09355699) to ensure a perfect match. This part fits the following vehicles:
GMC/CHEVROLET PICKUP 1500/2500/3500 98-99 Gasoline (LH engine compartment), ID 16250279
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 98-99 Gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16250279
TAHOE/YUKON 98-99 (LH engine compartment), ID 16250279
SAVANA/EXPRESS VAN 1500/2500/3500 98 Gasoline, ID 16250279
ASTRO/SAFARI VAN 98-99 (4.3L, LH front by battery), ID 16250279
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 98 (RH front engine compartment), w/o build date opt ZN4; ID 16250279 or 16258815
S10/S15/SONOMA 98 (4.3L), w/o build date opt ZN4; ID 16250279 or 16258815
BRAVADA 98 (4.3L), w/o build date opt ZN4; ID 16250279 or 16258815
ENVOY 98 (RH front engine compartment), w/o build date opt ZN4; ID 16250279 or 16258815
ISUZU HOMBRE 98 (4.3L), w/o extended build date opt ZN4; ID 16258815
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) allows us to program the PCM with the exact software and calibrations for your van’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures it works correctly right out of the box.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, because we program it to your VIN, it is a plug-and-play solution. The only additional step is a simple security relearn procedure that you can do yourself without any special tools.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the PCM (like codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this module will resolve the issue. However, you should always ensure other potential causes have been ruled out.
What tools do I need for installation?
You’ll typically only need basic hand tools, such as a socket set or wrenches to disconnect the battery and unbolt the module from its bracket. No special diagnostic equipment is required.