Is Your Work Van Unreliable? Get it Back on the Road.
If you rely on your 1999-2002 GMC Savana 2500 for work, you can’t afford downtime. When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) starts to fail, it can turn your dependable workhorse into a source of constant frustration. As a mechanic with over two decades of experience working on these exact GM vans, I’ve seen it all. The symptoms can be confusing and often misdiagnosed, costing you time and money on parts you don’t need.
Common Symptoms of a Failing GM PCM
A faulty PCM, the brain of your engine and transmission, doesn’t always fail completely. It often starts with intermittent issues that get progressively worse. You might be experiencing:
- โ Check Engine Light that won’t go away, often with communication error codes (U-codes) or specific sensor codes that don’t resolve with new sensors.
- โ Harsh, erratic, or delayed transmission shifting. It might feel like the transmission doesn’t know what gear to be in.
- โ A sudden no-start or crank-no-start condition, especially when the engine is warm.
- โ Poor fuel economy and a noticeable loss of engine power.
- โ Stalling at idle or while driving.
A Real-World Diagnosis from the Shop Floor
“A customer’s 2001 Savana 2500 came in last week with these exact symptoms. The owner, a plumber, had already replaced the crank sensor and a few ignition components trying to solve an intermittent no-start. After it left him stranded, he brought it to my bay. My high-end scan tool couldn’t even communicate with the PCM. After checking the power and grounds to the module, it was clear the PCM itself was the culprit. The internal circuit board had failed from years of heat and vibrationโa very common issue on these work vans. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and the van fired right up and has been running perfectly ever since.”
The Technical Reason for Failure
The PCM in your Savana is located in the engine compartment, where it’s exposed to extreme temperatures and constant vibration. Over 20+ years, the delicate internal components, like capacitors and solder joints, break down. This degradation leads to faulty signals being sent to the engine and transmission, causing the unpredictable symptoms you’re seeing. Itโs not a matter of if, but when, an original module from this era will fail.
The Simple, Reliable Solution
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take a quality, tested module and program it specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This is the crucial step that many sellers skip.
- โ Programmed to Your VIN: We load the latest, most stable GM factory software for your specific vehicle. This ensures all systems, including the engine, transmission, and any specific options your van has, function correctly.
- โ No Dealer Visit Required: Because the module arrives pre-programmed, you avoid the hassle and expense of having the vehicle towed to a dealership for programming.
- โ Direct-Fit Replacement: This module is a direct replacement for part number 16263494 and other compatible numbers, ensuring a perfect physical fit.
Installation Guidance from a Pro
Replacing the PCM on these vans is straightforward. Always disconnect the negative battery terminal first. The module is typically located in the left (driver’s side) rear of the engine compartment. Unbolt the mounting bracket, carefully disconnect the electrical connectors (they have locking tabs), and swap in the new module. Reconnect everything, connect the battery, and you’re almost done. In most cases, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which takes about 30 minutes and doesn’t require any special tools. Instructions are readily available online for your specific model.
Confirm Your Part Number
To guarantee compatibility, please check the part number on your vehicle’s original module. This unit is a direct replacement for service number 16263494 and is also compatible with the following part numbers:
- โ 16265035
- โ 8162634940
- โ 218-11787
- โ 21811787
This module fits a wide range of GM trucks and vans from approximately 1998 to 2002, including the Chevy Express, GMC Sierra, Chevy Silverado, S10/Sonoma, Blazer/Jimmy, Tahoe/Yukon, and more. Please use the detailed fitment list to confirm your specific application.