End Frustrating Drivability Issues and Get Back on the Road with Confidence
Is your trusted 1996 GM vehicle suffering from baffling problems like a persistent check engine light, harsh shifting, a rough idle, or even a no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer that manages your engine and transmission. Driving with a faulty PCM is not only frustrating but can lead to poor fuel economy, failed emissions tests, and potential damage to other components. This pre-programmed engine computer is the straightforward, reliable solution to restore your vehicle’s performance and your peace of mind.
Common Symptoms & Your Solution
A failing PCM can manifest in numerous ways that are often misdiagnosed, leading to wasted time and money on unnecessary parts. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the definitive fix:
- Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL) with various codes
- Erratic or harsh automatic transmission shifting
- Engine stalling, stumbling, or poor acceleration
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Complete no-start or intermittent starting problems
- Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
Instead of guessing, solve the problem at its source. We provide a professionally prepared 1996 Buick Regal PCM that is flashed specifically for your car, ensuring it works correctly right out of the box.
Features & Benefits
- ✔ Arrives Ready to Install: We program this module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before shipping. This ensures a seamless, plug-and-play installation without needing an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
- ✔ Optimized Factory Performance: Flashed with the latest GM software updates available for your vehicle, this computer corrects known factory bugs and helps optimize engine and transmission operation for maximum reliability.
- ✔ Guaranteed Compatibility: This is the direct replacement for service numbers 16211539, 88963800, and 16231853. It restores your vehicle’s original factory function across a wide range of 1996 GM cars and vans.
- ✔ Solves Complex Issues: The PCM is the brain of your vehicle. Replacing a faulty one is the key to resolving a host of electrical and performance-related problems that other parts can’t fix.
- ✔ Drive with Confidence: This unit is backed by our one-year replacement warranty, giving you security and peace of mind on the road.
Expert Insight from Our Technicians
“On these mid-90s GM vehicles, the PCM is tied into the vehicle’s anti-theft system (VATS/Pass-Key). You can’t just swap in a used computer from a junkyard and expect it to work—the car simply won’t start. That’s why our VIN programming service is so critical. We handle all the complex setup on our end, so when you receive the part, the security data matches your keys, and the engine and transmission have the correct calibrations. It’s the closest you can get to a brand new part from the factory, designed to make your repair successful.”
Ordering this 1996 Buick Regal PCM is the most effective step towards making your car dependable again. After you complete your purchase, simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN, and we’ll handle the rest. We’ll ship you a module that’s ready for a straightforward installation, getting you back behind the wheel faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
Absolutely not. The main benefit of our service is that we handle all the programming for you. The module will arrive flashed to your specific VIN and ready for installation. Just connect it, and you’re ready to go.
Where do I provide my Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
After you place your order, we will contact you for your VIN. You can also add it as a note during the checkout process to speed up the programming and shipping of your part.
Is this compatible with my 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix or Chevy Lumina?
Yes, it is. While our focus keyword is for the 1996 Buick Regal PCM, this module fits a very wide range of 1996 GM vehicles. Please check the detailed compatibility list on this page to confirm it is the correct part for your specific make, model, and engine.
What if my original part number is 88963800?
You have the right part. This module is the correct service replacement for several part numbers, including 88963800, 16211539, and 16231853. As long as your vehicle is on the fitment list, this unit will function correctly.
What does the PCM actually do?
The Powertrain Control Module, or PCM, is the main computer that controls all aspects of your vehicle’s engine and transmission. It takes information from sensors all over the car to manage things like fuel injection, spark timing, and transmission shift points to ensure the vehicle runs efficiently and smoothly.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is no core charge for this item. You do not need to send your old, faulty module back to us, which saves you the time, hassle, and expense of a return shipment.