Get Your ’97 GM Truck Running Right Again
Is your trusty 1997 Chevrolet 2500 Pickup, Suburban, or Express Van suddenly giving you fits? If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like a no-start condition, erratic engine behavior, or a persistent Check Engine Light, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the ‘brain’ of your vehicle, when the PCM goes down, it takes your truck’s reliability with it. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that needs a dependable solution.
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood of these GM trucks, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty PCM can mimic a dozen other problems. Don’t waste time and money chasing phantom sensor failures. This replacement 1997 Chevrolet 2500 PCM is the definitive, reliable fix. We take all the guesswork and hassle out of the repair by pre-programming the module specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. It arrives at your door with the latest GM software updates, ready for a straightforward installation.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 1997 GMC Yukon that came into the shop on a tow truck. The owner said it would run fine for about 20 minutes, then stall and refuse to restart for an hour. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a history of random communication errors. After checking fuel pressure and spark, which were fine when it was running, I suspected the PCM. On these older GMT400 platforms, the PCM is mounted in the engine bay where it endures countless heat cycles. Over 20+ years, these temperature swings cause microscopic cracks in the solder joints on the circuit board. The module worked cold, but once it reached operating temperature, the connection would fail. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM, and the Yukon has been running reliably ever since. This is a classic failure mode I’ve diagnosed hundreds of times.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can cause a wide range of issues. If your truck or van is experiencing any of the following, a faulty module is the likely culprit:
- ✔ Complete no-start or intermittent starting problems.
- ✔ The engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Poor or declining fuel economy.
- ✔ Rough idling, stalling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Erratic or harsh automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0605 (Internal Control Module ROM Error).
- ✔ Loss of communication with the diagnostic scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the biggest benefits of our service is simplicity. You don’t need advanced diagnostic tools for this job. Follow these steps to get your truck back in service quickly.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On most 1997 GM trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, often near the battery or firewall.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harnesses connected to the old module. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module into the bracket and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (If Necessary): Some vehicles may require a simple key-cycle procedure to sync with the new PCM. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10 minutes, ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeat two more times. Then, the vehicle should start.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 16229684 (also replaces 8162296840), is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of 1997 GM gasoline-powered vehicles. Please confirm your model is on the list below:
- 1997 ASTRO VAN
- 1997 BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 (4.3L)
- 1997 BRAVADA (4.3L)
- 1997 CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP
- 1997 CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP
- 1997 CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP
- 1997 EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN
- 1997 GMC 1500 PICKUP
- 1997 GMC 2500 PICKUP
- 1997 GMC 3500 PICKUP
- 1997 ISUZU HOMBRE (4.3L)
- 1997 S10/S15/SONOMA (4.3L)
- 1997 SAFARI (GMC)
- 1997 SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN
- 1997 SUBURBAN 1500
- 1997 SUBURBAN 2500
- 1997 TAHOE
- 1997 YUKON
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to program this module?
No. We handle all the programming for you before shipment. Simply provide your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready to install with the latest GM software updates.
Where do I find my vehicle’s VIN?
Your VIN can be found on a metal plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Will this fix my Check Engine Light?
If your Check Engine Light is on because of an internal PCM failure (like DTC P0601), this replacement module will resolve the issue. If the light is on for another reason (e.g., a bad oxygen sensor), that separate issue will still need to be addressed.
Is the security relearn procedure difficult?
Not at all. For the few vehicles that require it, the procedure is simple and involves cycling the ignition key. It takes about 30 minutes and requires no special tools. We can provide easy-to-follow instructions upon request.
What if my original part number doesn’t match exactly?
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 16229684 and 8162296840. As long as your vehicle is on our compatibility list, this module will function correctly once programmed to your VIN.