Is Your Late 90s GM Truck or SUV Running Rough?
If you’re behind the wheel of a 1999 Cadillac Escalade, a Chevy/GMC truck, or one of the many compatible vehicles from that era, you know they’re built to last. But when the central computerโthe Powertrain Control Module (PCM)โstarts to fail, it can cause a host of frustrating and confusing problems. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these exact issues hundreds of times on this specific GM platform.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
A faulty PCM doesn’t always fail completely. Often, it starts with intermittent problems that can be misdiagnosed, costing you time and money on parts you don’t need. Look out for:
- โ No-start or hard-starting conditions, especially when the engine is warm.
- โ An illuminated Check Engine Light with communication error codes or false sensor codes.
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- โ Poor engine performance, stumbling, or stalling for no apparent reason.
- โ A noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- โ The anti-theft or security light staying on, preventing the engine from starting.
Expert Pro Tip: Check Your Grounds First!
Before you conclude your PCM is faulty, take 10 minutes to inspect and clean the main ground connections. On these 90s GM trucks, the ground strap from the engine block to the firewall or frame is notorious for corroding. I’ve personally diagnosed dozens of vehicles with classic PCM failure symptoms that were completely fixed by simply cleaning a rusty ground connection with a wire brush. It’s the cheapest and easiest first step in your diagnosis.
The Direct-Fit, Programmed Solution
If you’ve ruled out other causes and confirmed the PCM is the culprit, this is the reliable, straightforward solution you need. This isn’t just a generic, off-the-shelf part. We take a genuine, tested Powertrain Control Module and professionally program it specifically for your vehicle using your unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
This critical step ensures that when you receive the module, it’s loaded with the correct factory software and the latest updates from General Motors for your exact make, model, engine, and transmission combination. This eliminates the need for an expensive trip to a dealership for programming.
Why VIN Programming is Essential
The PCM is the brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission. It controls everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shift points and emissions equipment. Using a non-programmed module or one from a different vehicle will, at best, cause poor performance and, at worst, prevent the vehicle from starting at all due to the built-in anti-theft system (PassLock/VATS).
- โ Guaranteed Compatibility: Programming to your VIN ensures the module communicates perfectly with all other systems in your vehicle.
- โ Latest GM Software: We flash the module with the most current GM calibration, which often resolves factory bugs and improves performance and drivability.
- โ Plug-and-Play Installation: Once installed, you will only need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which can be done in your driveway without any special tools. We provide instructions for this process.
How The Process Works
- Place Your Order: Purchase this Powertrain Control Module.
- Provide Your VIN: After your purchase, send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. You can typically find this on your dashboard (visible through the windshield), on your driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration.
- We Program & Ship: Our technicians will flash the module with your vehicle’s specific software. We then securely package and ship the ready-to-install module directly to you.
Confirming Your Part Number
This module is a direct replacement for several GM service numbers. To ensure a perfect match, check the sticker on your existing module. This unit is compatible with the following part numbers:
16250279, 09366810, 09355699
This part fits a wide range of 1998-1999 GM trucks, vans, and SUVs, including the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet/GMC pickups, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, Astro/Safari, and more. Please refer to the detailed compatibility list to confirm it fits your specific model and options. Restore the reliability and performance of your GM vehicle with a professionally programmed, ready-to-install PCM.