Is Your Oldsmobile Alero or Grand Am Running Rough?
If your 2000-2001 Oldsmobile Alero, Pontiac Grand Am, or another compatible GM vehicle is experiencing perplexing issues like stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent Check Engine Light, or even a no-start condition, the problem may lie with a faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM is the electronic brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission, managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to emissions controls and transmission shift points. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose.
Don’t let a bad computer keep you off the road. This is a direct-fit, tested, and reliable used PCM, part number 9356249, that has been professionally programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We install the latest GM-certified software updates, ensuring your engine operates at its peak efficiency and reliability, just as the manufacturer intended. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a restoration of your vehicle’s core operational integrity.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 2001 Pontiac Grand Am with the 2.4L engine that came in with the most frustrating intermittent stalling issue. The owner had replaced the plugs, wires, and even the fuel pump, but the car would still randomly die at stoplights. No consistent codes were being stored, just a generic P0300 (Random Misfire) every now and then. After hours of checking wiring and sensors, we hooked up a high-level scanner and monitored the PCM’s live data. We noticed the injector pulse width would suddenly drop to zero for a split second, just before the engine would quit. It was a clear sign of an internal PCM fault. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most elusive problems point directly to the vehicle’s central computer.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with various, often inconsistent, trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or hesitating during acceleration.
- ✔ The vehicle will not start, even though the battery and starter are good.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
Why Our VIN Programming Service is Essential for Your Alero PCM Replacement
A PCM from another vehicle will not work correctly in your car without being properly configured. Modern vehicles have complex anti-theft systems and specific operational parameters tied to the VIN. Our process ensures a seamless installation. When you provide us with your VIN, we flash the module with the exact software calibration for your car’s engine, transmission, and options. This critical step ensures all systems communicate correctly, prevents anti-theft lockouts, and restores original performance and fuel efficiency. This module arrives ready for installation and a straightforward security relearn procedure, getting you back on the road faster.
Guaranteed Fitment
This Electronic Control Module is a direct replacement for vehicles equipped with part numbers 09356249, 16268310, and 9392873. Please verify one of these numbers on your original module before ordering. This part is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- 2000-2001 Oldsmobile Alero (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash, 2.4L)
- 2000-2001 Pontiac Grand Am (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash, 2.4L)
- 2000-2001 Chevrolet Cavalier (Electronic Control Module; RH front engine compartment)
- 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (Electronic Control Module; RH front engine compartment, ID 9356249)
- 2000-2001 Pontiac Sunfire (Electronic Control Module; RH front engine compartment)
- 2002 Pontiac Sunfire (Electronic Control Module; RH rear engine compartment, ID 9356249)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PCM and what does it do?
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), also known as the Engine Control Module (ECM), is your car’s main computer. It controls all aspects of engine and transmission function to ensure optimal performance, fuel economy, and low emissions.
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) allows us to program the PCM with the precise software and calibrations for your specific engine, transmission, and factory options. This is crucial for the module to function correctly and communicate with other systems in your car.
Is this part difficult to install?
The physical installation is typically straightforward, involving disconnecting the battery and swapping the module. However, after installation, you MUST perform a security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock or VATS relearn). This procedure syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system and can usually be done without special tools. Instructions are widely available online.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Because it comes programmed to your VIN, it is nearly plug-and-play. The only additional step required after installation is the security relearn procedure, which is essential for the vehicle to start and run.
How can I be sure this PCM will fit my car?
Please check the part number on your original module. This PCM is a direct replacement for part numbers 09356249, 16268310, and 9392873. You can also use the fitment list provided on this page to confirm compatibility with your vehicle’s year, make, and model.