Is Your Grand Am or Alero Running Rough? The PCM Might Be the Culprit.
If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, poor fuel economy, erratic shifting, or even a no-start condition in your 2000-2001 Pontiac Grand Am or Oldsmobile Alero, the problem often traces back to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer of your vehicle, the PCM is responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission operation. When it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose and can sideline your vehicle indefinitely.
Don’t let a faulty computer keep you off the road. This is a genuine, tested OEM Powertrain Control Module, part number 09356249, that serves as a direct-fit replacement for your original unit. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation by programming this computer specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. This ensures that all factory settings and operational parameters are perfectly matched to your car’s specific configuration, restoring its original performance and reliability.
From the Diagnostic Bay
A customer brought in a 2001 Alero with the 2.4L engine, complaining of a car that would intermittently stall at red lights and had a check engine light for random misfires and an O2 sensor circuit fault. They had already replaced the plugs, wires, and the O2 sensor with no luck. After hooking up our scanner, we noticed the live data for fuel trim was completely erratic. Instead of chasing more sensors, we focused on the command center—the PCM. We swapped in a known-good, programmed module, and the car immediately smoothed out. The fuel trim stabilized, and the misfire codes vanished. It was a classic case where the brain, not the body, was the problem. A faulty PCM can send you on a wild goose chase, replacing perfectly good parts. This is why a correctly programmed, functional computer is the most critical component for engine health.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The light is on, and you may have codes related to multiple, unrelated sensors.
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may run rough, stall unexpectedly, or misfire, especially under load.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: The engine cranks but refuses to start, often due to a lack of spark or fuel injector pulse commands from the PCM.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: A failing module can’t efficiently manage the engine’s fuel delivery, leading to a noticeable drop in MPG.
- ✔ Transmission Shifting Issues: The PCM also controls transmission shift points, and a fault can cause harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or being stuck in one gear.
- ✔ Failed Emissions Test: Incorrect engine management will almost certainly lead to a failed smog or emissions inspection.
The Solution: A Programmed 2000-2001 Grand Am PCM
This isn’t just a used part pulled from a yard. This is a complete, ready-to-install solution. We use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) you provide at checkout to flash the module with the latest, most stable GM-certified software for your exact vehicle. This process is critical and ensures compatibility with your engine, transmission, and all factory-installed options. By pre-programming the unit, we eliminate the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 09356249, 16268310, and 9392873. It is guaranteed to fit and function correctly in the following vehicles equipped with the 2.4L engine:
- 2000-2001 Pontiac Grand Am (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash)
- 2000-2001 Oldsmobile Alero (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash)
- 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
How does the programming process work?
After you complete your purchase, you must provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We use this number to access the official GM database and load the correct software and calibrations onto the PCM. This ensures the computer is a perfect match for your car’s systems before it even ships.
Is installation difficult? Do I need a mechanic?
Installation is straightforward for someone with basic automotive skills. The PCM is typically located in the dash on the driver’s side for the Grand Am/Alero or in the engine bay for the Cavalier/Sunfire. You will need to disconnect the battery, unplug the electrical connectors from the old PCM, unbolt it, and then install the new one in reverse order. Most importantly, you will need to perform a security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock relearn) after installation, which can be done without special tools. Instructions can be found easily online or in a service manual.
What is the security relearn procedure?
The security relearn procedure syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. It typically involves a series of key-on/key-off cycles. A common method is the 30-minute relearn: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10 minutes, turn it ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeat this cycle two more times for a total of 30 minutes. After the third cycle, the vehicle should start.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, tested used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. Each unit is inspected and verified to be fully functional before being programmed and shipped. This provides the reliability of a genuine GM part at a fraction of the cost of a new one.
Do I need to send my old PCM (core) back?
No core charge or return is required for this part. You can keep your old module, which can be helpful if you need to revert back for any diagnostic reason.