Is Your 1996 GM Vehicle Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like intermittent stalling, a no-start condition, harsh shifting, or a check engine light that won’t go away, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). In my 20+ years in the shop, I’ve seen these exact symptoms on countless 1996 GM cars and vans. The PCM is the brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose.
The Direct Solution: A VIN-Programmed 1996 GM PCM
Instead of risking a used part from a junkyard or paying steep dealership prices for programming, this is your reliable, plug-and-play solution. This is a replacement PCM, service part number 16211539, that we program specifically to your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This ensures perfect compatibility and function right out of the box. We load the latest GM-approved software updates, which can often resolve underlying factory issues you didn’t even know were there.
Expert Pro Tip: Check Your Connectors First!
Before you condemn your old PCM, take a minute to inspect the electrical connectors that plug into the module. Over the decades, it’s common for moisture to cause green or white corrosion on the pins. I’ve seen dozens of 1996 Buick Regals and Chevy Luminas come in with classic ‘bad PCM’ symptoms that were fixed simply by cleaning these terminals with a small brush and electrical contact cleaner. A clean, tight connection is critical for the new module to work correctly.
Key Features & Benefits
- โ Plug & Play Installation: Arrives pre-programmed to your VIN. No dealer visit needed.
- โ Resolves Common Failures: A permanent fix for no-start, stalling, poor fuel economy, and erratic transmission behavior.
- โ Latest GM Software: Flashed with the most current calibrations for improved performance and reliability.
- โ Guaranteed Compatibility: This module directly replaces part numbers 88963800, 16211539, and 16231853.
- โ Restores Vehicle Communication: Clears false diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) caused by a faulty original module.
Simple Installation Guide
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these 1996 GM models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter housing or mounted to the firewall.
- Disconnect & Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harness connectors. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New PCM: Mount the new module securely. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle is now ready to start.
Guaranteed Fitment For These 1996 Models:
This module is the correct electronic control unit for a wide range of 1996 General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and engine below:
- Buick: Century (3.1L), LeSabre (3.8L), Park Avenue (3.8L), Regal, Riviera (3.8L), Skylark (3.1L)
- Chevrolet: Beretta (3.1L), Corsica (3.1L), Lumina Car (3.1L & 3.4L), Lumina Van (3.4L), Monte Carlo
- Oldsmobile: Achieva (3.1L), Ciera (3.1L), Cutlass (3.1L & 3.4L), Eighty Eight (3.8L), Ninety Eight (3.8L), Silhouette (3.4L)
- Pontiac: Bonneville (3.8L), Grand Am (3.1L), Grand Prix, Trans Sport (3.4L)
After purchase, please provide us with your VIN. This is a required step so we can program the module before shipment.