Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 1998-1999 Pontiac Grand Am or other GM vehicle acting possessed? Unexplained stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a frustrating no-start condition can often be traced back to one component: a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty engine computer can create a cascade of baffling problems that seem unrelated. This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your engine’s operation, and when it falters, your vehicle’s reliability, fuel economy, and performance suffer.
We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the repair. This replacement PCM, part number 9357440, arrives at your door fully programmed with the latest GM software updates, specifically flashed to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This means no expensive trips to the dealer for programming. It’s a direct-fit, straightforward solution designed to get your car running smoothly again.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start Nightmare
I remember a 1999 Oldsmobile Alero with the 3.4L V6 that came into the shop on a tow truck. The owner was at his wit’s end. The car would run perfectly for weeks, then suddenly refuse to start. No crank, no communication with the scan tool—nothing. After it sat for a few hours, it would fire right up as if nothing was wrong. We checked grounds, the ignition switch, and starter relays, but everything tested fine. On a hunch, I gently heated the PCM with a heat gun. Within minutes, the vehicle’s network went dead. As it cooled, communication returned. The culprit was internal solder joints on the PCM board that were failing when they got hot. A new, pre-programmed PCM like this one solved the problem permanently. These intermittent, heat-related failures are incredibly common on these GM platforms.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Common PCM Failure Symptoms?
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Sudden stalling or cutting out while driving.
- ✔ A persistent Check Engine Light with communication error codes (e.g., U0100) or internal module failure codes (P0601, P0606).
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Your diagnostic scan tool cannot communicate with the PCM.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental contact.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these GM models, the PCM is found either in the engine bay (often inside the air filter housing) or under the dashboard on the passenger or driver’s side.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed PCM into place. Securely reconnect all electrical harnesses, ensuring they click and lock into position.
- ✔ Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal and tighten it.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn: You will likely need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. This allows the vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new PCM. Consult your vehicle’s specific procedure if needed.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles, provided the part number on your original module matches. Programming is specific to your VIN.
ALERO 99 (3.4L)
BONNEVILLE 98
CAMARO 98 (3.8L)
CENTURY 98 (3.1L)
CUTLASS 98-99
EIGHTY EIGHT 98
FIREBIRD 98 (3.8L)
GRAND AM 98 (3.1L)
GRAND AM 99 (3.4L)
GRAND PRIX 98
INTRIGUE 98
LESABRE 98 (3.8L)
LUMINA CAR 98
MALIBU 98 (3.1L)
MONTE CARLO 98
PARK AVENUE 98 (3.8L)
REGAL 98
RIVIERA 98 (3.8L)
SILHOUETTE 98
SKYLARK 98 (3.1L)
TRANS SPORT 98
VENTURE 98 (3.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming work?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians use this number to flash the module with the correct, vehicle-specific software and the latest updates from GM before we ship it to you.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Yes, for the most part. Because we program it to your VIN, it eliminates the need for a dealer scan tool. However, you will need to perform a security relearn procedure after installation, which is a simple process that can be done at home with just your car key. Instructions are included above.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module is a direct solution for a failed PCM. If your vehicle has been properly diagnosed with a bad PCM, this part will resolve the related issues. Common symptoms include no-start conditions, stalling, communication errors, and certain check engine light codes.
Do I need to send my old PCM back?
No core charge or return is required for this part. You can keep or responsibly dispose of your old module.
What if my original part number isn’t 9357440?
This module is also a direct replacement for several other service numbers, including 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, and 9366314. As long as your original module carries one of these numbers, this part will be a compatible replacement once programmed.