Is Your 1996 GM Vehicle Running Rough, Stalling, or Showing a Check Engine Light?
If you’re dealing with frustrating engine problems in your 1996 Buick Century, Regal, or another GM model from that era, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. I’ve spent two decades under the hood of these cars, and I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty PCM can cause a cascade of issues that are tough to diagnose: erratic shifting, poor fuel mileage, a persistent check engine light, and even a no-start condition that leaves you stranded. You need a reliable solution that gets you back on the road without the hassle and expense of a dealership visit.
This is a direct-fit replacement PCM, service number 16211539, which is also the correct replacement for modules marked with 88963800 and 16231853. The best part? We handle the complex part for you. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and we will program the module with the latest GM-certified software specifically for your car. It arrives at your door ready for a simple, plug-and-play installation.
A Real-World Scenario from My Shop
“A customer’s 1996 Buick LeSabre came in last week with a classic complaint: intermittent stalling at stoplights and hard, jerky shifts. He had already spent a few hundred dollars replacing the crank position sensor and the ignition control module based on some forum advice, but the problem persisted. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I saw erratic data from multiple sensors, a tell-tale sign the PCM itself was failing. The internal logic was corrupted. We installed one of our VIN-programmed PCMs, and within 30 minutes, the car was running perfectly smooth. This is a common story; don’t chase expensive parts until you’ve considered the vehicle’s brain.”
Why Choose Our Programmed 1996 Century PCM?
Getting your classic GM vehicle running right shouldn’t be a guessing game. This module is the definitive solution to restore your engine’s performance and reliability.
- โ VIN-Specific Programming: We flash the module with your car’s exact VIN, ensuring all systems communicate correctly.
- โ Latest GM Software: Your PCM will have the most recent factory updates, which often correct drivability issues the original software had.
- โ No Dealer Required: Save hundreds of dollars and the inconvenience of a dealership appointment. This part is ready to install right out of the box.
- โ Restores Original Performance: Corrects issues like poor idle, hesitation, incorrect transmission shifting, and false sensor codes.
- โ Broad Compatibility: A single, reliable solution for a wide range of 1996 General Motors vehicles.
Simple Plug-and-Play Installation
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to install this part. With basic hand tools, you can have your car running again in under an hour.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most 1996 GM cars like the Century or Grand Prix, the PCM is located in the engine bay, typically inside the air filter housing or mounted nearby.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unplug the electrical harness connectors from the old module. Press the release tabs and pull straight out.
- Swap the Module: Unbolt the old PCM and remove it. Mount the new module in its place.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the harness connectors firmly into the new PCM until they click. Reconnect your battery terminal.
- Start the Engine: Your vehicle is now ready to go. The computer will perform a self-learning process as you drive.
Expert Pro Tip: Inspect the Pins
Before plugging in your new PCM, take a bright flashlight and carefully inspect the pins inside the vehicle’s harness connectors. On a vehicle of this age, corrosion (a green or white powdery substance) or a bent pin can cause a poor connection, leading to the same symptoms as a bad module. Use a small pick and some electrical contact cleaner to ensure the connection is perfect before installation.
Guaranteed Vehicle Compatibility
This module is the correct electronic control module for the following 1996 models. Please verify your engine size where noted:
- ACHIEVA (3.1L)
- BERETTA (3.1L)
- BONNEVILLE (3.8L)
- CENTURY (3.1L)
- CIERA (3.1L)
- CORSICA (3.1L)
- CUTLASS (3.1L & 3.4L)
- EIGHTY EIGHT (3.8L)
- GRAND AM (3.1L)
- GRAND PRIX
- LESABRE (3.8L)
- LUMINA CAR (3.1L & 3.4L)
- LUMINA VAN (3.4L)
- MONTE CARLO
- NINETY EIGHT (3.8L)
- PARK AVENUE (3.8L)
- REGAL
- RIVIERA (3.8L)
- SILHOUETTE (3.4L)
- SKYLARK (3.1L)
- TRANS SPORT (3.4L)