Is Your 1997 GM Vehicle Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with a persistent check engine light, erratic transmission shifting, or a car that just won’t start reliably, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the brain of your vehicle, when the PCM starts to go, it can create a host of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. I’ve seen it hundreds of times in my shop: a customer comes in after replacing multiple sensors, still facing the same drivability problems, only to find the original PCM was the culprit all along.
The Direct Solution: A VIN-Programmed 1997 Century PCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution for your 1997 Buick Century, Regal, Grand Prix, or other compatible GM model. We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair. Before this module ships, our technicians will program it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically matched to your car’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This ensures that once it arrives, it’s ready to communicate perfectly with your engine and transmission, restoring factory performance and reliability.
Expert Pro Tip: Check Your Connectors First!
Before you plug in your new PCM, take a moment to closely inspect the vehicle’s harness connectors. On these 90s GM vehicles, moisture can seep in over time, causing a green, crusty corrosion on the pins. This corrosion creates poor connections that can mimic PCM failure or even damage your new module. Use a small pick and a dedicated electronics cleaner to gently clean any corrosion off the pins and ensure a solid, clean connection. This five-minute check can save you hours of headaches.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM:
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty PCM is a very likely cause:
- โ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL)
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- โ Engine cranks but refuses to start
- โ Significant drop in fuel economy (MPG)
- โ Intermittent stalling or hesitation while driving
- โ Communication error codes with a scan tool
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
One of the biggest benefits of our service is that this module is delivered ready for installation. You won’t need to have the car towed to a dealership for expensive programming. The job can be done right in your driveway with basic hand tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most compatible models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, typically inside the air filter housing or mounted nearby.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place. Firmly reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to run for a few minutes to complete its internal relearn processes.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This Powertrain Control Module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16218070 and 16217058. It is guaranteed to fit and function correctly on the following 1997 models:
- Achieva: with 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- Bonneville: with 3.8L (6-231) Engine (w/o supercharged option)
- Century: with 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- Cutlass: Supreme models
- Eighty Eight: with 3.8L (6-231) Engine (w/o supercharged option)
- Grand Am: with 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- Grand Prix: with 3.1L (6-191) or 3.8L (6-231) Engine (w/o supercharged option)
- LeSabre: with 3.8L (6-231) Engine
- Lumina Car: with 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- Monte Carlo: with 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- Regal: with 3.8L (6-231) Engine (w/o supercharged option)
- Silhouette: with 3.4L (6-207) Engine
- Skylark: with 3.1L (6-191) Engine
- Trans Sport: with 3.4L (6-207) Engine
- Venture: with 3.4L (6-207) Engine
Please provide your vehicle’s VIN upon purchase so we can ensure perfect programming before shipment.