Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your Chevrolet Astro, GMC Safari, or other GM truck experiencing frustrating issues like stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a complete no-start condition? You’re not alone. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your engine, is a common point of failure on these workhorse vehicles. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that leave you stranded. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a reliability issue that needs a solid, permanent fix. This is the direct-fit, dependable solution you’ve been searching for.
Forget expensive dealership visits and the headache of programming. We handle the hard part for you. This module arrives at your door pre-programmed with the latest GM software, specifically matched to your vehicle’s VIN. This ensures that all factory parameters for fuel delivery, spark timing, and transmission shifting are perfectly calibrated. It’s a true plug-and-play fix that restores the performance and fuel efficiency you depend on. By installing this 1999-2001 Astro Powertrain Control Module, you’re not just replacing a part; you’re restoring your vehicle’s core operational integrity.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Signs?
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty engine computer could be the culprit. In my 20+ years of diagnostics, these are the most common symptoms I’ve traced back to the PCM:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Memory Error) or P0606 (PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough, erratic idling.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in his 2000 Chevy Express 2500 work van with an intermittent no-start problem that was costing him business. It would run fine for days, then suddenly refuse to start, only to fire up an hour later. No clear codes were stored, just a history of random communication faults. We checked fuel pressure, spark, and sensor signals—all were good when it was running. The intermittent nature pointed away from a simple mechanical failure. After hooking up a lab scope to the PCM’s power and ground circuits during a no-start event, we found the 5-volt reference signal was dropping out internally. The PCM was failing under specific temperature conditions. We installed one of these VIN-programmed modules, and the van has been starting reliably ever since. It’s a classic example of how a failing PCM can create ghost-like problems that are tough to pin down without experience.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 1999-2001 Astro Powertrain Control Module is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour with basic hand tools. This guide is specific to the Astro/Safari, but the process is very similar for most compatible trucks and vans.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On the Astro and Safari vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, typically next to or under the battery tray.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip and disconnect the electrical wiring harnesses from the old module. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released before pulling. Avoid forcing them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. There are typically a few 10mm or 13mm bolts holding it in place.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into the mounting bracket and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: Your vehicle is equipped with a Passlock/Passkey security system that may need to be relearned to the new PCM. The typical procedure is: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (don’t start) for 10-15 minutes, or until the ‘Security’ light on the dash stops flashing and turns off. Turn the key off for 10 seconds, then repeat the process two more times. After the third cycle, the vehicle should start and run normally.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
We guarantee compatibility with vehicles requiring part numbers 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787, or 21811787. Please verify your part number or use the fitment list below. Providing your VIN at checkout is essential for correct programming.
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SAVANA 1500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
ASTRO 00-01 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), ID 16263494
GMC 3500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
S10/S15/SONOMA 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.3L
SAVANA 1500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
ASTRO 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), (4.3L), ID 16263494
ISUZU HOMBRE 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.3L (6 cylinder)
SAFARI (GMC) 99-01 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
GMC 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.0L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 98 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), w/build date opt ZN4
GMC 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.7L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
TAHOE 00 Electronic Control Module; Classic style (LH front engine compartment)
YUKON 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
ESCALADE 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
ESCALADE 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
S10/S15/SONOMA 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-262 (4.3L), w/build date opt ZN4
YUKON 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), Denali
BRAVADA 98 Electronic Control Module; (6-262, 4.3L), w/build date opt ZN4
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
GMC 3500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
ISUZU HOMBRE 98 Electronic Control Module; 4.3L (6 cylinder), w/extended build date opt ZN4
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6 cylinder
SAVANA 2500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SUBURBAN 1500 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.7L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
GMC 2500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6 cylinder
SUBURBAN 2500 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 1500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
TAHOE 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
BRAVADA 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.0L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 2500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
SAVANA 2500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
ENVOY 98 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), w/build date opt ZN4
GMC 2500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to access the exact factory calibration file for your specific vehicle. This includes engine size, transmission type, and emissions equipment. Programming the PCM with this data is critical for proper engine function, fuel economy, and transmission performance.
Is this part difficult to install?
No, this is a plug-and-play part. The physical installation involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the old PCM, unbolting it, and swapping in the new one. The only extra step is a simple security relearn procedure that you can do yourself with just the ignition key, as described in our guide above.
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, if the light is on for a bad sensor (like an O2 sensor or MAP sensor), you will still need to replace that sensor.
How quickly will I get my part?
Once you provide your VIN, we typically program and ship the module within one business day. We understand you need your vehicle back on the road, and we work quickly to make that happen.
Is a core charge required?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You do not need to send your old, faulty module back to us.