Restore Peak Performance to Your 1997 GM Vehicle
Is your 1997 Chevrolet, GMC, or Isuzu truck or van running poorly? Are you dealing with a persistent check engine light, stalling, rough idling, or a no-start condition? These are classic symptoms of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer for your engine and transmission, a faulty PCM can cause a wide range of frustrating and difficult-to-diagnose issues. This replacement PCM, part number 8162296840, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle back on the road and running like it should.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 1997 Chevy C1500 in the shop that the owner was ready to give up on. It would start fine cold, but after 15 minutes of driving, it would start to misfire and eventually stall at stoplights. The owner had already replaced the fuel filter, spark plugs, and ignition control module. Our diagnostic scanner showed erratic sensor readings and communication dropouts. We suspected the PCM was failing under heat. After installing this VIN-programmed module, the truck ran perfectly. It’s a reminder that the vehicle’s ‘brain’ is often the root cause of the most baffling electrical gremlins.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 1997 GM Truck PCM
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various codes
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring, especially when warm
- ✔ Complete no-start or hard-starting conditions
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing
- ✔ Inability for diagnostic scan tools to communicate with the module
The Heart of Your Vehicle’s Operation
The PCM is the command center for your entire powertrain. It takes data from dozens of sensors—like the crankshaft position sensor, oxygen sensors, and throttle position sensor—and uses that information to make millions of calculations per second. It controls fuel injection timing, spark advance, transmission shift points, and emissions components. When it begins to fail, due to age, heat cycles, or internal component degradation, the entire system’s harmony is disrupted. This is why a failing 1997 GM Truck PCM can manifest in so many different ways.
A True Plug-and-Play Solution
Don’t settle for a generic, unprogrammed module that will require an expensive trip to the dealership. Our service sets this part apart. When you purchase this PCM, you provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our technicians then use that VIN to load the latest, most up-to-date GM factory software directly onto the module. This ensures that all parameters for your specific engine, transmission, and emissions equipment are perfectly matched. The result is a true plug-and-play component that restores original factory performance and reliability. No additional programming is required.
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16229684 and 8162296840 and fits a massive range of 1997 GM vehicles, including:
- Chevrolet & GMC C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickups
- Chevrolet Tahoe & GMC Yukon
- Chevrolet & GMC Suburban 1500 & 2500
- Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana 1500, 2500, 3500 Vans
- Chevrolet S10, GMC Sonoma, & Isuzu Hombre (4.3L V6)
- Chevrolet Blazer & GMC Jimmy (4.3L V6)
- Oldsmobile Bravada (4.3L V6)
- Chevrolet Astro & GMC Safari Vans
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this PCM programmed?
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 for installation.
Where is the PCM located on my 1997 truck or van?
On most 1997 GM full-size trucks, Suburbans, and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the firewall or inner fender. On S-series trucks and Astro/Safari vans, it’s typically on the driver’s side near the battery.
Is this a difficult part to install?
Installation is straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills. The most important step is to disconnect the vehicle’s battery before you begin. Then, simply unplug the wiring harnesses from the old module, unbolt it, and install the new one in its place. Reconnect the harnesses and the battery, and you’re done.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the original PCM, this replacement will resolve the issue. After installation, it’s always a good practice to clear any stored diagnostic trouble codes with a scan tool.
What information do you need from me?
We only need your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN to ensure we load the exact correct software for your truck’s engine, transmission, and options.