Is Your Cavalier, Sunfire, or Grand Am Acting Up?
If you’re dealing with a frustrating no-start condition, a persistent check engine light, harsh shifting, or poor fuel economy in your 2000-2002 GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is a very likely culprit. As a mechanic with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these exact symptoms countless times. The PCM is the central computer of your vehicle, managing everything from fuel injection and spark timing to automatic transmission shifts. When it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing and seemingly unrelated problems.
Real-World Diagnosis: “A customer’s 2001 Sunfire came into my shop last month. It would randomly stall at red lights and the transmission was shifting erratically. The owner had already replaced a few sensors with no luck. We hooked up our diagnostic scanner and found communication errors with the PCM. A quick swap with one of our programmed modules confirmed the diagnosis, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a common story for these vehicles.”
The Direct-Fit Solution: Programmed and Ready to Install
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. This is a reliable, tested PCM sourced from a salvaged vehicle, but the most important service is done right here in our facility. We will flash this computer with the latest official GM software updates, specifically calibrated to your car’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready for a straightforward, plug-and-play installation.
Why a Programmed 2000-2002 Cavalier PCM is Your Best Choice
Getting a module that is pre-programmed to your VIN is critical for these GM models. It ensures all the specific options and parameters for your car are loaded correctly, preventing compatibility issues that can be a nightmare to diagnose. This is the most reliable way to get your car back on the road quickly.
- ✔ Fixes Common Issues: Solves check engine lights, stalling, rough idle, poor MPG, and erratic transmission behavior.
- ✔ VIN-Programmed: We flash the module with your car’s VIN and the newest GM software for perfect compatibility.
- ✔ No Dealer Required: Save hundreds of dollars and the hassle of a dealership visit for programming.
- ✔ Cost-Effective Repair: A high-quality, tested used part provides a reliable fix without the cost of a new module.
Expert Pro Tip: Check Your Connections
Before installing your replacement PCM, take a moment to inspect the wiring harness connectors. On these vehicles, especially the Cavalier and Sunfire where the PCM is in the engine bay, moisture can cause corrosion on the pins. Use a small brush and electrical contact cleaner to gently clean both the male and female pins. A poor connection can mimic PCM failure or even damage your replacement module.
Simple Plug-and-Play Installation Guide
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to ensure the system is fully discharged.
- Locate the PCM: On Cavalier and Sunfire models, it’s typically on the right-hand (passenger) side of the engine compartment. On Grand Am and Alero models, it’s usually found inside the car, behind the left-hand (driver) side of the center dash.
- Disconnect the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical harness connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once unplugged, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to run for a few minutes to complete its internal relearn processes.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 09356249, 16268310, and 9392873. It is compatible with the following models:
- 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 Grand Am (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash, 2.4L)
- 2000-2001 Pontiac Sunfire (Electronic Control Module; RH front engine compartment)
- 2002 Pontiac Sunfire (Electronic Control Module; RH rear engine compartment, ID 9356249)
- 2000-2001 Oldsmobile Alero (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash, 2.4L)
After purchasing, please send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN so we can program the module before shipping.