Is Your Sunfire, Cavalier, or Grand Am Experiencing Engine Problems?
If your vehicle is suffering from erratic behavior like stalling, poor fuel economy, a persistent check engine light, or a no-start condition, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) could be the culprit. The PCM is the central computer of your vehicle, responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, it can cause a wide range of frustrating and difficult-to-diagnose issues. This genuine GM PCM, part number 9356249, is the reliable, cost-effective solution to get your car running smoothly again.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2001 Pontiac Sunfire come into the shop that was a real head-scratcher. The owner complained of random stalling at stoplights, but there were no consistent trouble codes. We checked the fuel pump, ignition system, and sensors—all tested fine. After hours of diagnostics, we decided to monitor the PCM’s live data streams. We noticed the injector pulse width would suddenly drop to zero right before a stall. We swapped in a tested, correctly programmed PCM, and the problem vanished instantly. It’s a classic example of how a faulty module can mimic other component failures, making a direct-fit, pre-programmed part like this an invaluable repair solution.
The Plug-and-Play Advantage: Programmed to Your VIN
Don’t waste time and money at a dealership or risk installing a generic module from a salvage yard. This PCM is professionally programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This critical step ensures that the computer has the correct software and calibrations for your car’s specific engine, transmission, and options. It also means the module will properly communicate with the other electronic systems in your vehicle, avoiding compatibility issues that are common with un-programmed units.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with various, often inconsistent, trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling or shutting off unexpectedly while driving or idling.
- ✔ No-start or hard-starting conditions, even with a good battery and starter.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Poor engine performance, including hesitation, misfires, or rough idling.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
Why Choose This 2000-2002 Sunfire PCM?
This is a high-quality, used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit and function. Each module is inspected and then flashed with the latest official GM software updates. This process not only prepares the module for your vehicle but also corrects potential factory software bugs, leading to improved performance and reliability. By providing us with your VIN during checkout, you receive a part that is ready for installation right out of the box, drastically simplifying the repair process.
Guaranteed Fitment
This Electronic Control Module is a direct replacement for part numbers 09356249, 16268310, and 9392873. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- Pontiac Sunfire: 2000-2001 (RH front engine compartment)
- Pontiac Sunfire: 2002 (RH rear engine compartment, with ID 9356249)
- Chevrolet Cavalier: 2000-2001 (RH front engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Cavalier: 2002 (RH front engine compartment, with ID 9356249)
- Oldsmobile Alero: 2000-2001 (LH center dash, with 2.4L engine)
- Pontiac Grand Am: 2000-2001 (LH center dash, with 2.4L engine)
Please verify your part number and vehicle fitment to ensure compatibility. If you are unsure, contact us with your VIN, and we will be happy to assist you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process after I place my order?
It’s simple! After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship the module until we have this information. Once we receive your VIN, our technicians will program the PCM with the latest GM software specific to your car. The module will then be securely packaged and shipped to you.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a tested and guaranteed functional OEM part that has been recovered from a salvaged vehicle. This allows us to offer a genuine GM-quality part at a fraction of the cost of a new one from a dealership.
Will I need to do anything after installing the module?
In many cases, a simple security relearn procedure (also known as a VATS relearn) may be required after installation. This procedure syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system and can typically be done in your driveway without any special tools. Instructions for this procedure are widely available online or in vehicle service manuals.
How do I find my vehicle’s VIN?
Your VIN can be found in several places: on a metal plate on the driver’s side dashboard visible through the windshield, on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, and on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Will this 2000-2002 Sunfire PCM solve my car’s problem for sure?
While this module is a common solution for the symptoms listed, proper vehicle diagnostics are essential. We recommend confirming the PCM is the point of failure before purchasing. This part is guaranteed to be a functional, correctly programmed module, but we cannot guarantee it will fix issues caused by other faulty components on your vehicle.