Is Your GM Truck or Van Running Rough?
If your late 90s or early 2000s GM vehicle is experiencing perplexing issues like erratic shifting, poor fuel economy, a persistent check engine light, or even a no-start condition, the culprit is often the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer of your vehicle, the PCM controls everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shift points. When it begins to fail, it can create a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed, leading to costly and unnecessary repairs.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We once had a 2001 Chevy Express 2500 in the shop that the owner was convinced needed a new transmission. It was shifting hard, hunting for gears, and occasionally throwing a transmission-related code. He had already spent hundreds on fluid changes and sensor replacements. After plugging in our scanner, we noticed erratic data from several engine sensors that didn’t quite make sense. Instead of pulling the transmission, we swapped in a known-good PCM. Instantly, all the shifting problems vanished. The original PCM had failing internal drivers that were sending corrupt signals to the transmission. This pre-programmed module saves you from that diagnostic nightmare by providing a reliable, correctly configured solution right out of the box.
The Direct-Fit Solution: A Pre-Programmed 1999-2002 Savana 3500 PCM
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your reliable GM truck off the road. This Powertrain Control Module is the definitive solution for a wide range of popular models, including the Savana, Express, Silverado, S10, and more. What sets our modules apart is our professional programming service. When you place your order, you provide us with your vehicle’s VIN. We then flash the module with the latest, most stable software directly from GM, ensuring it is a perfect match for your vehicle’s specific configuration. This eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming or specialized tools, making the installation process straightforward for any competent DIY mechanic or local shop.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with various, seemingly unrelated trouble codes.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring.
- ✔ A sudden, unexplained drop in fuel mileage.
- ✔ The vehicle cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Failure to communicate with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ Intermittent electrical issues affecting gauges or accessories.
Replacing your old, failing computer with this professionally programmed 1999-2002 Savana 3500 PCM will restore your vehicle’s performance, efficiency, and reliability. It’s a critical component for ensuring your engine and transmission work in harmony as the manufacturer intended. By matching the programming to your VIN, we ensure all factory settings for your engine size, transmission type, and emissions equipment are correctly loaded. This is a plug-and-play replacement designed to get you back on the road quickly and confidently.
This module is a direct replacement for the following part numbers: 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787, 21811787.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this module programmed?
No. This module comes pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. After you place your order, you must provide us with your VIN so we can flash the unit with the correct GM factory software before shipping. This makes it ready for installation upon arrival.
What is a PCM and what does it do?
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), also known as an Engine Control Module (ECM), is your vehicle’s main computer. It manages the engine’s fuel delivery, ignition timing, emissions systems, and controls the automatic transmission’s shifting for optimal performance and efficiency.
Where do I find my vehicle’s VIN?
Your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on a metal plate on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Is any additional setup required after installation?
In some cases, a Crankshaft Variation Relearn (also known as a CASE relearn) may be necessary to prevent a P1336 trouble code. This procedure can be performed by most professional scan tools and is a simple process that calibrates the new module to your engine’s crankshaft position sensor.
What happens if I install this without programming?
An unprogrammed module will not work correctly. It may prevent the vehicle from starting due to security mismatches (Passlock system) or cause severe drivability problems because the software doesn’t match your vehicle’s hardware (engine, transmission, etc.). Our VIN programming service is essential for proper function.