Is Your GM Truck or Van Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, erratic engine behavior, poor fuel mileage, or transmission shifting problems in your GMC Safari, Chevy Express, or other compatible GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. The PCM is the central computer, the ‘brain’ of your vehicle, responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to automatic transmission shift points. When it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose and can leave you stranded.
The Simple, Reliable Solution: A VIN-Programmed PCM
Don’t waste time and money at the dealership with expensive diagnostics and programming fees. This replacement Powertrain Control Module is the definitive solution for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. We take the guesswork out of the repair. When you order, you provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our technicians will then program the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM, ensuring it is a perfect match for your vehicle’s specific configuration. It arrives at your door ready to be installed, making the repair process as straightforward as possible.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2000 Chevy Express 2500 work van come into the shop with a really strange problem. The owner said it would run fine for about 20 minutes, then suddenly stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for at least half an hour. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a generic communication error that would pop up intermittently. We checked fuel pressure, ignition components, and wiring harnesses, but everything looked good. After hours of diagnostics, we monitored the data stream from the PCM and noticed that the 5-volt reference signal to several key sensors would drop out right before it stalled. This pointed to an internal failure in the PCM’s voltage regulator, a common issue caused by heat and age. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, performed the quick security relearn, and the van ran perfectly. The customer was back on the road the same day, saving hundreds compared to a dealership visit.
Diagnosing a Faulty 1999-2001 GMC Safari PCM
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways, often mimicking other component failures. By understanding the common symptoms, you can more accurately determine if the PCM is the source of your vehicle’s problems. This module is the correct fix for vehicles exhibiting the following issues.
Common Symptoms of PCM Failure:
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The check engine light is illuminated, often with codes related to sensor circuits, module communication, or processor faults.
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may stall for no apparent reason, run rough, or misfire because the PCM is not correctly controlling fuel delivery or spark timing.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: Your vehicle may crank but refuse to start because the PCM is not activating the fuel pump or ignition coils.
- ✔ Poor Performance & Fuel Economy: A noticeable drop in power, acceleration, and a significant increase in fuel consumption can be traced back to an inefficient PCM.
- ✔ Harsh or Failed Transmission Shifting: The PCM controls the automatic transmission. A faulty module can lead to hard shifts, delayed engagement, or getting stuck in one gear.
- ✔ Intermittent Electrical Issues: Seemingly random electrical problems or warning lights can sometimes be caused by an internally shorted PCM.
Plug-and-Play Installation
This module is designed for a direct, hassle-free installation. Because we program it to your VIN before shipping, you bypass the need for expensive dealer-specific scan tools. Simply disconnect the battery, unplug the electrical connectors from your old PCM, unbolt it, and install the new one in its place. After reconnecting the battery, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a CASE relearn), which can typically be done without special tools. This ensures your vehicle’s anti-theft system recognizes the new module. This one part restores the communication and control your engine and transmission need to operate as designed.
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers: 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, and 218-11787.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this PCM programmed?
No. This module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. You must provide your VIN at checkout so we can load the correct GM software and updates before we ship it to you. This makes installation much simpler.
What is a CASE relearn and will I need to do one?
A Crankshaft Variation Relearn (CASE) procedure synchronizes the new PCM with the crankshaft position sensor. Many GM vehicles of this era require it after a PCM replacement to prevent a P1336 trouble code. It often requires a professional scan tool, but some vehicles can complete it with a specific drive cycle. Please check the service manual for your specific model.
Where is the PCM located on my vehicle?
The location varies by model. On GMC Safari and Chevy Astro vans, it’s typically on the driver’s side of the engine bay, near the battery. On S10/Blazer models, it’s often on the passenger side firewall. On full-size trucks and vans like the Express/Savana, it can be on the driver’s side inner fender or rear of the engine compartment.
How do I find my VIN?
Your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on a metal plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested original equipment part that has been expertly programmed for reliable, long-term service in your vehicle.