Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your Chevrolet, GMC, or Isuzu truck suffering from perplexing issues like a persistent check engine light, erratic shifting, poor fuel economy, or even a no-start condition? These are classic symptoms of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer that manages your vehicle’s engine and transmission. This replacement PCM, part number 16265035, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s reliability and drivability. It serves as a direct replacement for a wide range of popular GM models from the late 1990s and early 2000s, including the Silverado, Sierra, Express, Savana, Tahoe, and Yukon.
The PCM is the brain of your vehicle’s operation. It constantly analyzes data from dozens of sensors—monitoring everything from engine speed and throttle position to oxygen levels in the exhaust. It uses this information to make millions of calculations per second, precisely controlling fuel injection, ignition timing, and transmission shift points. When this critical component begins to fail, it can create a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed, leading to wasted time and money on unnecessary sensor replacements. By replacing the faulty unit with our professionally prepared module, you are addressing the root cause of the problem.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I once had a 2000 GMC Sierra 2500 in the bay with a ghost of a problem. The owner had replaced the plugs, wires, cap, rotor, and even the fuel pump chasing an intermittent misfire and poor performance under load. The codes were all over the place—random misfire, lean condition, sometimes an O2 sensor code. Nothing was consistent. After hours of diagnostics, we hooked up a scope to the injector control circuits at the PCM. We found that the driver for cylinder 3 was intermittently dropping out, but only when the module got hot. The PCM itself was failing internally. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the truck ran like it just rolled off the assembly line. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most complex problems point back to the central controller.
The Solution: A VIN-Programmed 1999-2000 Chevrolet 3500 PCM
Don’t settle for a generic, off-the-shelf part that requires expensive dealer programming. Our process is designed for a seamless and effective repair. When you purchase this module, we will program it specifically for your vehicle using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) you provide. This critical step ensures that the PCM has the correct software and calibrations for your truck’s specific engine, transmission, and emissions equipment. Furthermore, we flash it with the latest software updates available from General Motors. These updates often resolve factory bugs and improve performance and efficiency beyond what your original module offered.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or running rough.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Vehicle fails to start, even with a good battery and starter.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
Simple, Straightforward Process
Getting your truck back on the road is easy. After placing your order, simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians will handle the complex programming process, ensuring the module is ready for installation upon arrival. In most cases, installation is a straightforward plug-and-play process, although some vehicles may require a simple, key-on/key-off security relearn procedure that you can perform yourself in your driveway—no special tools required. We provide clear instructions to guide you. This service eliminates the need for towing your vehicle to a dealership and paying high labor rates for programming.
This module is a direct fit for part numbers 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787, and 21811787, and is compatible with an extensive list of GM vehicles. Restore the heart of your truck’s electronics with a reliable, correctly programmed 1999-2000 Chevrolet 3500 PCM and drive with confidence again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PCM and what does it do?
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is your vehicle’s main computer. It controls all aspects of the engine and transmission to ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. It’s the brain behind the entire operation.
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before we ship the module. We use the VIN you provide to install the correct GM software and the latest updates for your specific vehicle, making it ready for installation.
Why do you need my vehicle’s VIN?
The 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) contains crucial information about your truck’s engine, transmission, emissions systems, and other factory options. Programming the PCM with your VIN ensures it works perfectly with your vehicle’s unique configuration.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty PCM, then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, the light can be triggered by other failing components like sensors. It’s important to have a proper diagnosis, but the symptoms listed on this page are strong indicators of PCM failure.
Is a security relearn procedure required after installation?
Many GM vehicles of this era require a simple security relearn procedure to sync the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This can typically be done in your driveway in about 30 minutes with just your ignition key. We include instructions for this simple process.