Is Your Workhorse Van Suddenly Unreliable?
If you rely on your 1999-2002 GMC Savana 3500, you know it’s built to be a dependable workhorse. But when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) starts to fail, that reliability disappears, leaving you with frustrating and often confusing problems. As the central computer for your engine and transmission, a faulty PCM can cause a cascade of issues that can sideline your vehicle and your business.
Over my 20+ years diagnosing these GM vehicles, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing PCM can mimic a dozen other problems, leading to wasted time and money on unnecessary parts. Don’t get caught in that cycle. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your PCM is the likely culprit.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Savana 3500 PCM
- โ Check Engine Light is on with multiple, seemingly unrelated diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
- โ Your van cranks but refuses to start, even with good fuel pressure and spark.
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- โ A noticeable drop in fuel economy for no apparent reason.
- โ The engine stalls intermittently, especially when warm.
- โ Your diagnostic scan tool cannot communicate with the PCM.
“A customer’s 2001 GMC Savana 3500 came into the shop last week on a tow truck. It would crank all day but wouldn’t fire up. We checked for spark and fuel pressureโboth were good. The scanner, however, couldn’t communicate with the PCM at all. After verifying power and ground to the module, it was clear the PCM itself had failed internally. It’s a common issue on these work vans after two decades of heat and vibration. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and the van started on the first turn, running smoother than it had in years.”
The Direct-Fit, Programmed Solution
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a quality, tested Powertrain Control Module and professionally program it to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a critical step that many sellers skip.
Why is VIN programming so important? Your VIN tells us everything about your Savanaโits engine size, transmission type, emissions equipment, and other factory options. We use this data to load the exact, correct GM-certified software onto the module. This ensures:
- โ Perfect compatibility with your vehicle’s systems.
- โ The latest software updates from GM, which can resolve factory bugs and improve performance and efficiency.
- โ A true plug-and-play installation, with no need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
Installation is Straightforward
On most 1999-2002 Savana and Express vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side (LH side) towards the rear. The process is simple: disconnect the battery, unplug the electrical connectors from the old module, unbolt it, and install the new one in its place. Once you reconnect the battery, you may need to perform a security relearn procedure, which is a simple process that can be done without special tools.
Verify Your Part Number
This module is a direct replacement for several original GM part numbers. Please check the number on your existing module to ensure compatibility. This unit replaces:
- โ 16263494
- โ 16265035
- โ 8162634940
- โ 218-11787
Ordering this module is the most effective way to solve complex electronic issues and restore your Savana 3500’s performance and reliability. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we’ll handle the rest, shipping you a part that’s ready to get you back on the road.