Restore Your GM Truck’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 1999 Cadillac Escalade or GM truck giving you headaches? If you’re dealing with a persistent Check Engine Light, unpredictable stalling, poor fuel economy, or a frustrating no-start condition, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer of your vehicle, the PCM is responsible for managing everything from fuel delivery and spark timing to transmission shifting. When it falters, the entire vehicle’s performance suffers. This replacement PCM is the definitive solution to get your truck, van, or SUV running like it should.
We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair. Unlike a generic module from a parts store, this unit comes fully programmed with the latest GM software updates, specifically matched to your vehicle using your VIN. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming and no need for specialized scan tools. It’s a direct-fit, ready-to-install solution designed to restore original performance and clear those stubborn fault codes for good.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a ’99 GMC Yukon that came into the bay with a classic intermittent stalling issue. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and ignition coil, but the problem persisted. It would run fine for days, then die at a stoplight without warning. After hooking up my scanner, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM. On these late-90s GM trucks, heat and vibration are the biggest enemies of the PCM, which is mounted right in the engine bay. Over time, solder joints on the circuit board can crack, causing these exact symptoms. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module like this one, and the Yukon ran perfectly. It’s a repair I’ve done hundreds of times, and it’s often the final fix for these ghost-in-the-machine problems.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- âś” Unexplained Check Engine Light that won’t go away.
- âś” Engine stalls randomly or struggles to start.
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage.
- âś” Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- âś” Your scanner can’t communicate with the PCM.
- âś” Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored, such as P0601 (Internal Memory Error) or P0606 (PCM Processor Fault).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- âś” Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- âś” Locate the PCM: On most compatible trucks and SUVs, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side fender or near the battery.
- âś” Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harnesses connected to the old module. The levers can be stiff, so apply steady pressure.
- âś” Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- âś” Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- âś” Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- âś” Perform Security Relearn: Your vehicle’s anti-theft system (Passlock/VATS) may need to be reset. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle three times. The vehicle should then start.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16250279, 09366810, and 09355699. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles with the specified options:
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15: 1998 (w/o build date opt ZN4)
BRAVADA: 1998 (4.3L, w/o build date opt ZN4)
CHEVROLET 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP: 1998-1999 (Gasoline)
ENVOY: 1998 (w/o build date opt ZN4)
ESCALADE: 1999
EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN: 1998 (Gasoline)
GMC 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP: 1998-1999 (Gasoline)
ISUZU HOMBRE: 1998 (4.3L, w/o extended build date opt ZN4)
S10/S15/SONOMA: 1998 (4.3L, w/o build date opt ZN4)
SAFARI (GMC): 1998-1999
SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN: 1998 (Gasoline)
SUBURBAN 1500/2500: 1998-1999 (Gasoline)
TAHOE/YUKON: 1998-1999 (Gasoline)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ mean?
It means we load the module with your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest official GM software. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your engine, transmission, and all other onboard systems, just like the original part from the factory.
Do I need to do anything after installing it?
After physical installation, you will need to perform the simple security relearn procedure detailed in the installation guide. This syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system and does not require any special tools.
Where do I find my VIN?
Your 17-digit VIN can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on a metal plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my problem?
This PCM is a direct solution for failures within the module itself. While it resolves the vast majority of the symptoms listed, we always recommend proper diagnostics to confirm the PCM is the root cause and rule out other issues like bad wiring or faulty sensors.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your VIN. We cannot ship your part until we receive this information to program it correctly.