Restore Peak Performance to Your 1997 GM Truck or Van
If you’re dealing with frustrating and unpredictable issues like stalling at stoplights, a hard no-start condition, or a persistent Check Engine Light on your 1997 GM vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is a very likely culprit. As an experienced technician, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times on the ’97 S10, Blazer, Suburban, and Express platforms. The PCM is the electronic brain of your engine and transmission; when it fails, it can create a diagnostic nightmare, often mimicking other sensor failures. This isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a reliability issue that can leave you stranded.
This replacement PCM is the definitive solution. It arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with the latest GM software updates. This critical step ensures seamless communication with your vehicle’s other modules and restores the original performance and fuel efficiency parameters. You get a reliable, direct-fit part without the expensive trip to a dealership for programming.
Real-World Repair Story
Real-World Repair Story
A customer brought in his ’97 GMC Jimmy 4.3L that had been to two other shops for an intermittent no-start. It would run fine for days, then refuse to start for an hour. No codes were stored. We checked fuel pressure, spark, and all the usual suspects—everything was perfect. On a hunch, I let the truck idle in the bay for 45 minutes to get it nice and hot, then tapped on the PCM casing with a screwdriver handle. The engine immediately stumbled and died. The original PCM had developed an internal fracture that only separated when it reached a specific temperature. We installed one of these pre-programmed units, and the customer called a month later to say his truck had never run better. This is a classic failure mode for the 1997 S10 Blazer PCM and related modules.
Is Your GM Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty PCM can manifest in various ways. If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, it’s time to consider a replacement:
- ✔ Engine stalling or cutting out intermittently
- ✔ Complete no-start condition with power to all other systems
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Drastic decrease in fuel economy
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with internal module codes (e.g., P0601, P0605, P0606)
- ✔ Loss of communication with the PCM when using a scan tool
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 1997 S10 Blazer PCM is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour with basic hand tools. This pre-programmed module makes the process much simpler.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- 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. The connectors have release tabs that need to be depressed.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal. In some cases, a simple security relearn procedure may be necessary, which typically involves cycling the key.
Verified Fitment For These 1997 Models
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16229684 and 8162296840 and is guaranteed to fit the following 1997 vehicles:
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 (6-262, 4.3L)
BRAVADA (6-262, 4.3L)
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN
EXPRESS 2500 VAN (gasoline)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN (gasoline)
GMC 1500 PICKUP (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
GMC 2500 PICKUP (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
GMC 3500 PICKUP (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
ISUZU HOMBRE (4.3L, 6 cylinder)
S10/S15/SONOMA (6-262, 4.3L)
SAFARI (GMC) (LH front by battery)
SAVANA 1500 VAN
SAVANA 2500 VAN (gasoline)
SAVANA 3500 VAN (gasoline)
SUBURBAN 1500 (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
SUBURBAN 2500 (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
TAHOE (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
YUKON (gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to program this 1997 S10 Blazer PCM?
- No. We handle all the programming for you before shipment. Simply provide your 17-digit VIN during checkout, and it will arrive ready to install.
- What information do you need from me?
- We only need your vehicle’s complete 17-digit VIN. This allows us to load the correct, GM-certified software for your specific model, engine, and options.
- Where is the PCM located on my truck?
- On the majority of these 1997 GM models, you’ll find the Electronic Control Module (PCM) in the engine bay, on the driver’s side, near the battery or attached to the inner fender.
- Will this fix my check engine light?
- If your check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the PCM (common codes include P0601-P0606), then this replacement module will solve the problem and allow the light to be cleared.
- Is a security relearn procedure required after installation?
- For some GM vehicles of this era, a simple security relearn (often called a Passlock relearn) may be needed. This procedure is straightforward and can be done without special tools by cycling the ignition key. Instructions are readily available online or in your service manual.