Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your Oldsmobile Alero, Pontiac Grand Am, or another trusted GM vehicle suffering from frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, erratic shifting, poor fuel mileage, or a no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer of your engine. For over 20 years in the shop, I’ve seen how a faulty PCM can cause a cascade of hard-to-diagnose problems. This direct-fit replacement PCM, part number 16236757, is the reliable solution to restore your vehicle’s drivability and efficiency.
Unlike sourcing a part from a junkyard or a generic retailer, this module isn’t just a piece of hardware. It’s a complete solution. We professionally program the unit with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle’s VIN before it ships. This critical step ensures seamless communication between your engine and transmission, optimizing performance and eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a part that’s ready to install right out of the box, saving you significant time and money.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 1998 Grand Prix that came into my bay with a complaint of intermittent stalling and a transmission that seemed to have a mind of its own—sometimes shifting hard, other times not at all. The owner had already replaced the transmission speed sensor and the mass airflow sensor with no luck. The scanner showed a few communication codes, but nothing pointed definitively to one component. This is a classic PCM failure scenario. The internal processors start to break down, sending corrupt data across the vehicle’s network. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM like this one, and it was like flipping a switch. The car ran perfectly, the transmission shifted smoothly, and the ghost codes vanished. It’s a reminder that sometimes the ‘brain’ is the source of the body’s problems.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as P0601, P0602, P0605, or other U-series communication codes
- ✔ Poor or declining fuel economy
- ✔ Rough or unstable idling
- ✔ Engine stalling or hesitation during acceleration
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Complete engine no-start condition
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electronic component replacement.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these GM models, the PCM is located either in the engine bay (often inside the air filter box) or under the dash on the passenger or driver’s side. For the 1999 Alero, it’s typically found on the left-hand side of the center dash.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs that must be released to prevent damage.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM securely onto the bracket and re-fasten the bolts.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect your vehicle’s negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn (If Necessary): For many GM vehicles, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure to sync the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This usually involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Consult your vehicle’s service manual for the exact procedure.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314 and fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please confirm your vehicle’s part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure an exact match.
- Oldsmobile Alero (1999): 3.4L, with matching ID
- Oldsmobile Achieva (1998): 6-191 (3.1L)
- Oldsmobile Cutlass (1998-1999): with matching ID
- Oldsmobile Eighty Eight (1998)
- Oldsmobile Intrigue (1998)
- Oldsmobile Silhouette (1998)
- Pontiac Grand Am (1998-1999): 3.1L & 3.4L, with matching ID
- Pontiac Grand Prix (1998)
- Pontiac Bonneville (1998)
- Pontiac Firebird (1998): 6-231 (3.8L)
- Pontiac Trans Sport (1998)
- Buick LeSabre (1998): 6-231 (3.8L)
- Buick Park Avenue (1998): 6-231 (3.8L)
- Buick Riviera (1998): 6-231 (3.8L)
- Buick Century (1998): 6-191 (3.1L)
- Buick Skylark (1998): 6-191 (3.1L)
- Buick Regal (1998)
- Chevrolet Camaro (1998): 6-231 (3.8L)
- Chevrolet Lumina Car (1998)
- Chevrolet Malibu (1998): 6-191 (3.1L)
- Chevrolet Monte Carlo (1998)
- Chevrolet Venture (1998): 6-207 (3.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship your order until we receive this information.
Is this part difficult to install for a DIYer?
No, this is a very manageable job for a DIY enthusiast. The most important steps are disconnecting the battery and carefully handling the wiring connectors. The included programming saves you the most complex part of the job.
What if my original part number is not 16236757?
This module is also a direct replacement for several other service numbers, including 09356741, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314. As long as your module carries one of these numbers, this part is compatible.
Will I need to do anything after installing the PCM?
In most cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, also known as a ‘key-on’ relearn. This allows the new PCM to recognize your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes and does not require special tools.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge associated with this purchase. You can keep or responsibly dispose of your old module without needing to send it back.