Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle with a VIN-Programmed PCM
Is your Buick, Pontiac, or Chevrolet suffering from baffling electrical gremlins? A flickering check engine light, erratic engine behavior, stalling, or a complete no-start condition can often be traced back to a single component: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission, when the PCM begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that can leave you stranded. Stop throwing parts at the problem and get the definitive solution.
This Powertrain Control Module, part number 89017735, is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. The best part? We take the guesswork and expense out of the equation. Before we ship it, our technicians will program the module with the latest GM software updates specifically for your car using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) you provide. This means no costly trips to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready for installation, making this a job that a confident DIYer or any professional mechanic can handle with ease. Restore your vehicle’s reliability, fuel efficiency, and smooth operation today.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent Stall That Wasn’t a Fuel Pump
I once had a 2005 Buick LeSabre with the 3.8L V6 come into my shop with a complaint that stumped two other mechanics. The car would run perfectly for days, then suddenly stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for 10-15 minutes. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a random U1000 (Loss of Communication) code that would pop up occasionally. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and crankshaft position sensor. I started with the basics: checked all power and ground connections to the PCM—they were perfect. Wiggling the harness did nothing. On a hunch, I monitored the 5-volt reference signal from the PCM to the sensors. After letting the car idle for nearly an hour, I saw the voltage flicker and die just before the engine stalled. The PCM was internally failing when it got hot. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the customer never had the problem again. It’s a classic example of how a failing PCM can mimic other component failures.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Telltale Signs of PCM Failure?
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with internal processor codes (e.g., P0601, P0602, P0606) or communication codes (U-series).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ The engine runs rough, misfires, or stalls intermittently.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions inspection.
- ✔ Other modules in the vehicle are not communicating with the engine computer.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these models, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side, often attached to the air filter housing.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and unplug the electrical wiring harnesses from the old module. Avoid forcing them.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you may need it for the new module.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount the new, pre-programmed PCM securely onto the bracket.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses firmly into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Final Steps: In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be required. This can often be done without special tools by cycling the key. Turn the ignition to ‘ON’ for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this 3 times. Your vehicle should now start and run with the new PCM.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 12583827 and 12583826. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. This part fits the following vehicles:
- Alero: 2003-2004 (3.4L)
- Aztek: 2003-2005
- Bonneville: 2004-2005 (3.8L)
- Century: 2003-2005
- Grand Am: 2003-2005 (3.4L)
- Grand Prix: 2003 (3.1L)
- Impala: 2003-2005
- LeSabre: 2004-2005
- Malibu: 2003
- Monte Carlo: 2003-2005
- Montana: 2003-2005
- Park Avenue: 2004-2005
- Rendezvous: 2003-2005
- Silhouette: 2003-2004
- Venture: 2003-2005
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PCM and what does it do?
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is your vehicle’s main computer. It controls all aspects of engine and transmission function, including fuel mixture, ignition timing, and shift points to ensure optimal performance, fuel economy, and emissions.
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) contains critical information about your car’s specific options, engine, and transmission. We use it to load the exact, correct GM factory software for your vehicle, ensuring it works perfectly right out of the box.
Will I need to do any other programming after installation?
No. This module arrives pre-programmed and ready to install. In some cases, a simple key-cycle security relearn procedure (as outlined in our installation guide) is all that’s needed, requiring no special tools.
Where is the PCM located on my 2004 Park Avenue?
On the 2004-2005 Park Avenue, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, inside the air cleaner assembly housing. You will need to open the airbox to access it.
What if my original part number is slightly different?
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 12583827 and 12583826. If your number is different, please contact us with your VIN and original part number to confirm compatibility before ordering.
Is this a reliable fix for a P0601 error code?
Yes. The diagnostic trouble code P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) is a definitive sign of internal PCM failure. Replacing the module is the correct and only repair for this code.