Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 2001-2002 Buick Century, or another compatible GM vehicle, suffering from frustrating engine issues? Symptoms like a persistent check engine light, unexplained stalling, poor fuel economy, or erratic transmission shifting often point to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This module, part number 12209614, is the central computer for your engine and transmission, and when it falters, the entire vehicle’s performance suffers. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution to get your car running reliably again.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I once had a 2002 Grand Prix come into the shop with a classic case of “parts cannon” diagnosis. The owner had replaced the spark plugs, wires, and two different sensors trying to chase down an intermittent misfire and stalling issue. His scanner wasn’t showing any specific sensor faults, just random misfire codes. After checking the basics, we hooked up our professional diagnostic tool and found the PCM was intermittently dropping communication. The internal processor was failing under heat. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the root cause is the brain, not the limbs.
Is Your Vehicle Exhibiting These Symptoms?
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a failing engine computer could be the culprit:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various or no specific codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Harsh, delayed, or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ The vehicle cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Inability for a scan tool to communicate with the module.
- ✔ Other modules on the vehicle network reporting a loss of communication with the PCM.
The Simple, Reliable Solution: A VIN-Programmed 2001-2002 Century PCM
Don’t let a complex computer issue keep you off the road. We make the repair process straightforward. When you purchase this module, we flash it with the latest official GM software updates specifically for your vehicle. All we need is your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout. This ensures that when the part arrives, it’s a true plug-and-play solution. You’ll avoid expensive dealership programming fees and lengthy service appointments. This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 12209614, 12202600, and 09360210, and it fits a wide range of GM vehicles from 2001-2003, including the Impala, Monte Carlo, Grand Am, Aztek, and more. Please verify your part number and check the detailed fitment list to ensure compatibility.
Installation is typically straightforward for those with basic mechanical skills. The PCM is often located in the engine bay, frequently inside the air filter housing for protection. After physically swapping the modules, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which can often be done without special tools. This procedure pairs the new computer with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. By ordering our pre-programmed 2001-2002 Century PCM, you are taking the most critical and complex step out of the equation, setting you up for a successful and cost-effective repair.
Do I need to get this module programmed?
No. We handle all the programming for you before shipment. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready to be installed, flashed with the latest GM software for your specific car.
Where is the PCM located on my 2001-2002 Buick Century?
On the Buick Century and many other compatible models like the Venture and Montana, the PCM is located in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment, typically housed within the air cleaner assembly box for protection from the elements.
What is a VIN and why is it so important?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-digit code for your specific car. It contains information about the make, model, year, and factory-installed options. We use the VIN to load the exact correct software and calibrations for your engine, transmission, and emissions equipment, ensuring perfect compatibility.
Will I need to do anything else after installing the new PCM?
After installation, you will likely need to perform a security relearn procedure, also known as a VATS relearn. This syncs the new PCM with your car’s anti-theft system and ignition keys. This procedure can typically be done without special tools and instructions are widely available online. A crankshaft variation relearn (CASE relearn) may also be required, which necessitates a bi-directional scan tool.
Is this part compatible with other vehicles?
Yes. While this is a perfect fit for the 2001-2002 Century, this PCM (part number 12209614) is also the correct module for a wide variety of other GM vehicles, including the Chevrolet Impala, Monte Carlo, Pontiac Grand Am, Grand Prix, Oldsmobile Alero, and Buick Regal. Always confirm your original part number matches one of the compatible numbers listed.