The Reliable Fix for Your GM Vehicle’s Engine Troubles
If you’re dealing with frustrating, hard-to-diagnose issues on your 2000-2002 Pontiac Firebird or another compatible GM vehicle, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the root cause. As the central computer for your engine, a failing PCM can cause a cascade of problems, from a simple check engine light to a no-start condition that leaves you stranded. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a solution designed to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability.
This is a quality, inspected used OEM PCM, part number 09380717. The most significant benefit we offer is our professional programming service. Before this module ships, we flash it with the latest official GM software updates, tailored specifically to your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures seamless integration with your vehicle’s systems, saving you the time, cost, and hassle of a trip to the dealership for programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix that came into my shop with a maddeningly intermittent no-start condition and harsh, erratic transmission shifts. The owner had already replaced the crank sensor and a few solenoids with no luck. The scanner showed a communication error code (U0100) that would come and go. After verifying the wiring harness integrity, we focused on the PCM. On these GM platforms, I’ve seen internal solder joints in the PCM crack from years of heat cycles, causing exactly these kinds of phantom problems. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module like this one, performed the security relearn, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a testament to how a failing computer can mimic a dozen other mechanical failures.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Telltale PCM Failure Symptoms?
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re a professional technician, you know these signs well. If you’re a DIYer, check if your car is experiencing any of the following:
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light, especially with codes like P0601, P0602, or P0606 (Internal Module Errors).
- ✔ Engine stalling, sputtering, or refusing to start intermittently.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. For the target 2000-2002 Firebird PCM, the unit is typically located behind the passenger-side strut tower in the engine bay. Always consult a service manual for your specific model’s location.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental contact.
- Locate the PCM: Find the existing module. On F-body cars (Camaro/Firebird), it’s under a plastic cover behind the RH strut tower. On other models, it may be in the engine bay near the fuse box or inside the passenger cabin.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Most have a locking tab or lever that needs to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Seat the replacement PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the bolts. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: This is a crucial final step for most GM vehicles of this era to sync the new PCM with the anti-theft system. The procedure is simple and requires only the ignition key (see FAQ below).
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 09380717, is confirmed to fit a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your original part number or consult your mechanic to ensure a match. This part fits the following models and options:
- ALERO 00 (LH center dash), 3.4L
- BONNEVILLE 00 (LH engine compartment), 3.8L
- BONNEVILLE 01 (LH engine compartment), ID 9380717
- CAMARO 00 (behind RH strut tower), 3.8L
- CAMARO 01-02 (behind RH strut tower), 3.8L, ID 9380717
- CENTURY 00 (LH engine compartment)
- FIREBIRD 00 (behind RH strut tower), 3.8L
- FIREBIRD 01-02 (behind RH strut tower), 3.8L, ID 9380717
- GRAND AM 00 (LH center dash), 3.4L
- GRAND PRIX 00 (LH engine compartment), 3.1L
- GRAND PRIX 00 (LH engine compartment), 3.8L
- LUMINA CAR 00 (LH engine compartment)
- MALIBU 00 (LH dash)
- MONTANA 00 (LH engine compartment)
- PARK AVENUE 00 (LH front engine compartment)
- REGAL 00-02 (LH engine compartment), ID 9380717
- SILHOUETTE 00 (LH engine compartment)
- TRANS SPORT 00 (Canada, LH front engine compartment)
- VENTURE 00 (LH engine compartment)
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is VIN programming?
What exactly is VIN programming?
VIN programming is the process where we load your vehicle’s specific 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software onto the PCM. This ensures the computer has the correct parameters for your engine, transmission, and options, making the installation process much smoother and avoiding conflicts with other modules.
Do I need any special tools to install this?
No special tools are required. Basic hand tools like a socket set to remove the mounting bolts and potentially a small flathead screwdriver to help release connector tabs are all you should need for the physical installation.
What is the security relearn procedure?
The GM Passlock/VATS security relearn syncs the new PCM to your car’s anti-theft system. A common method is the ’10-Minute Relearn’: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (don’t start), and leave it for 10-11 minutes until the ‘Security’ light on the dash turns off or stops flashing. Turn the key ‘OFF’ for 5 seconds. Repeat this cycle two more times for a total of three cycles. The car should then start.
Is this a used part?
Yes, this is a thoroughly inspected and tested used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This allows us to provide a reliable, factory-correct component at a significant cost saving compared to a new-from-dealer part.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. You can typically add it as a note during checkout or send it to us in a message referencing your order number. We cannot program and ship the module without it.