Restore Peak Performance to Your GMC Van
Is your trusty 1999-2001 GMC Safari giving you headaches? If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like stalling at intersections, a persistent check engine light, or erratic transmission shifting, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is very often the culprit. As an automotive technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these exact symptoms hundreds of times. The PCM is the brain of your vehicle, and when it falters, the entire system suffers. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a reliability issue that can leave you stranded.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution: a replacement PCM, part number 8162634940, that arrives at your door fully programmed for your specific vehicle. Before we ship, we use your VIN to flash the module with the latest official GM software updates. This critical step ensures that all engine, transmission, and emissions parameters are set perfectly for your Safari, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. This is the most effective way to solve those nagging electronic issues and get your van running like it should.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Intermittent Safari
I remember a 2000 GMC Safari that came into my shop with a problem that was driving the owner crazy. It would run fine for days, then suddenly stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for 10 minutes. There were no consistent trouble codes, making it a diagnostic challenge. After verifying fuel and spark were good, my experience pointed toward the PCM. On these older GM modules, internal solder joints can develop micro-fractures from years of heat cycles. When the engine got hot, the connection would fail. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, and the problem was solved instantly. The customer was back on the road with a reliable vehicle in under an hour of shop time.
Is Your Safari Showing These Signs of PCM Failure?
- ✔ The Check Engine Light is on, especially with communication error codes (e.g., P0601, P0606).
- ✔ Your engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling, rough idling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Noticeably poor fuel economy.
- ✔ The transmission shifts harshly, late, or seems to hunt for gears.
- ✔ Your scan tool cannot communicate with the computer.
Your Straightforward PCM Installation Guide
Replacing the 1999-2001 GMC Safari PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic hand tools. Since the programming is done, the physical swap is all that’s left.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on electrical components.
- Locate the Module: On the Safari and Astro, the PCM is typically located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, near the battery tray.
- Disconnect Harnesses: Carefully unclip and unplug the main electrical connectors from the old PCM. Take care not to damage the locking tabs.
- Remove Old PCM: Unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module securely onto the bracket.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back in, ensuring they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: Your vehicle may require a simple security relearn. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then turn it ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and then start the engine. This allows the anti-theft system to recognize the new PCM.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
While this is a perfect solution for the 1999-2001 GMC Safari PCM, this module is also a direct replacement for a wide variety of GM trucks and vans from that era. Please verify your part number (16263494, 16265035, or 8162634940) or check the detailed list below to confirm compatibility with your vehicle.
Compatible Makes and Models
Compatible Makes and Models
ASTRO: 99-01 | BLAZER/JIMMY S15: 98-00 | BRAVADA: 98-00 | ESCALADE: 99-00 | EXPRESS/SAVANA VANS (1500/2500/3500): 99-02 | HOMBRE: 98-00 | S10/SONOMA: 98-00 | SILVERADO/SIERRA PICKUPS (1500/2500/3500): 99-00 | SUBURBAN: 99 | TAHOE/YUKON: 99-00
Note: Specific options and engine sizes apply. Always match your part number (ID 16263494) for guaranteed compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Compatible Makes and Models
ASTRO: 99-01 | BLAZER/JIMMY S15: 98-00 | BRAVADA: 98-00 | ESCALADE: 99-00 | EXPRESS/SAVANA VANS (1500/2500/3500): 99-02 | HOMBRE: 98-00 | S10/SONOMA: 98-00 | SILVERADO/SIERRA PICKUPS (1500/2500/3500): 99-00 | SUBURBAN: 99 | TAHOE/YUKON: 99-00
Note: Specific options and engine sizes apply. Always match your part number (ID 16263494) for guaranteed compatibility.