Get Your Hard-Working GM Van or Truck Back on the Road
Is your 1998 or 1999 Chevy Express, GMC Savana, or other GM truck plagued by frustrating issues like a no-start condition, erratic idling, or a persistent Check Engine Light? Before you spend a fortune at the dealership, consider the heart of your vehicle’s operating system: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain behind your engine’s performance, and when it fails, it can cause a host of problems that are often misdiagnosed. We offer a reliable, cost-effective solution with this quality used 1998-1999 Express 2500 VAN PCM, fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN.
The biggest hurdle in replacing a PCM has always been the programming. An unprogrammed module is just a metal box. Our service eliminates that problem entirely. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash this module with the latest official GM software updates for your exact vehicle. This ensures all fuel trim, transmission shift points, and engine parameters are perfectly calibrated. When it arrives, it’s ready for a straightforward installation, saving you time, money, and a trip to the repair shop for programming.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall
I once had a 1999 Suburban in my bay that was driving the owner crazy. It would run perfectly for days, then suddenly stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for 10-15 minutes. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and crank sensor with no luck. After connecting my scan tool, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM. On these older GM trucks, heat soak in the engine bay can cause failing capacitors and solder joints inside the PCM to act up. We swapped in a VIN-programmed PCM like this one, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a classic case where chasing symptoms costs more than diagnosing the root cause—the failing computer.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ Your vehicle cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stuttering, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning work.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these GM trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side fender or near the battery.
- ✔ Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn: Your vehicle may require a simple security relearn procedure (for VATS/Passlock systems) to recognize the new PCM. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Instructions are readily available online for your specific model.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service number 16266645 and is compatible with other part numbers such as 09355699, 16250279, 16258815, and 9366810. It fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please confirm your part number or ID (often 9355699) matches. Key models include:
CHEVROLET & GMC SUBURBAN (1998-1999)
CHEVROLET TAHOE & GMC YUKON (1998-1999)
CADILLAC ESCALADE (1999)
CHEVROLET EXPRESS & GMC SAVANA VANS (1998-1999)
CHEVROLET ASTRO & GMC SAFARI VANS (1998)
CHEVROLET S10 & GMC SONOMA (1998)
CHEVROLET BLAZER & GMC JIMMY (1998)
OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA (1998)
ISUZU HOMBRE (1998)
Note: Please verify the ID number on your original module to ensure a perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN number?
After completing your purchase, please send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot program and ship the module without it.
Is this part difficult to install?
No, the physical installation is very straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills. It involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the old module, and plugging in the new one. The most important step after installation is the security relearn procedure, which is simple to perform.
What is a security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple process that allows your vehicle’s anti-theft system (VATS or Passlock) to sync with the replacement PCM. It usually takes about 30 minutes and requires no special tools, just your ignition key.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, tested used part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This allows us to provide a reliable and affordable solution for your repair needs.
Will this fix my vehicle’s specific problem?
This PCM will correct issues directly caused by a faulty module. While the symptoms listed are common indicators of PCM failure, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the PCM is the source of your problem before purchasing.