Is Your Trusted GM Running Rough? Get It Back in Top Shape.
There’s nothing more frustrating than a reliable car that suddenly starts acting up. If your 1996 Lumina, Century, Grand Prix, or other GM vehicle is suffering from stalling, poor performance, or a persistent check engine light, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. Don’t let a faulty computer sideline the car you depend on. This fully programmed PCM is the straightforward, reliable solution to restore your vehicle’s performance and get you back on the road with confidence.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 1996 GM PCM
Your vehicle’s PCM is its brain, controlling everything from fuel mixture and spark timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, it can cause a wide range of confusing and intermittent problems. Look out for these common warning signs:
- Check Engine Light: A constant or flashing check engine light, especially with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), points directly to a PCM issue.
- No-Start or Hard-Start: The engine cranks but refuses to start, or takes an unusually long time to fire up.
- Stalling and Rough Idle: Your vehicle may stall unexpectedly at stops or idle erratically.
- Poor Fuel Economy: A sudden and unexplained drop in your miles per gallon (MPG).
- Erratic Transmission Shifting: Harsh shifts, delayed engagement, or getting stuck in one gear.
This pre-programmed 1996 GM PCM 16231853 is the definitive solution to these problems, restoring communication between your vehicle’s critical systems and ensuring it runs exactly as the factory intended.
Features & Benefits You Can Count On
- ✔ Plug & Play Installation: Your new PCM arrives programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. No expensive trips to the dealership for flashing are required.
- ✔ Latest GM Software: We flash your module with the latest stable software updates from General Motors, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and drivability.
- ✔ Restored Drivability: A direct fix for common issues like stalling, rough idling, and poor fuel mileage caused by a faulty computer.
- ✔ Wide Model Coverage: This is a direct replacement for service numbers 88963800, 16211539, and 16231853, fitting a huge range of 1996 GM vehicles with 3.1L, 3.4L, and 3.8L engines.
- ✔ Guaranteed Performance: This unit is backed by our one-year replacement warranty for your complete peace of mind.
An Expert’s Note on Mid-90s GM Vehicles
“Back in the day, these GM 3100, 3400, and 3800 engines were known for being incredibly durable. The electronics, however, are now reaching an age where failure is common. Simply swapping a used computer from a junkyard won’t work due to the vehicle-specific anti-theft (VATS/Passlock) systems. Getting a properly programmed 1996 GM PCM 16231853 is the only way to ensure a successful repair. It’s not just about getting the engine to start; it’s about making sure the transmission shifts correctly and the fuel trims are accurate. This pre-programmed unit takes all the guesswork out of the job.”
The Simple Path to a Reliable Repair
We make the process easy. After you place your order, simply provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our technicians will then professionally program the 1996 GM PCM 16231853 to match your vehicle’s exact specifications. When it arrives, it’s ready for a straightforward installation, getting your dependable car back on the road where it belongs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
Absolutely not. We handle all the programming for you before the part is shipped. The module will arrive at your door ready for installation, matched specifically to your vehicle’s VIN.
What information do you need from me?
After you complete your purchase, we will need your vehicle’s full 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is crucial for us to load the correct software and ensure perfect compatibility.
Is this a difficult part to install?
For most DIYers with basic tools, this is a manageable job. It typically involves disconnecting the vehicle’s battery, carefully unplugging the electrical connectors from the old module, removing it, and installing the new one. We always recommend consulting a service manual for your specific model for detailed instructions.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If your check engine light is on due to an internal fault in the PCM (common codes include P0601, P0602, P0605), then this part is the correct solution. However, it’s essential to have your vehicle properly diagnosed first to confirm the PCM is the root cause of the issue.
How does the warranty work?
This unit is backed by our one-year replacement warranty. In the unlikely event you experience any issues related to the module within one year of purchase, we will provide a replacement unit.