Restore Your Van’s Brain and Get Back to Work
Is your 1998-1999 GMC Savana 1500 van giving you headaches with a persistent check engine light, erratic engine behavior, or a frustrating no-start condition? As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times. Often, the root cause isn’t a dozen different sensors—it’s the central command unit: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This isn’t just another part; it’s the brain of your vehicle, managing everything from fuel mixture and spark timing to transmission shifts. When it falters, your whole operation can grind to a halt.
This is a reliable, tested, and fully programmed PCM, service number 16250279, ready to solve those complex electronic issues. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN after purchase, and we will flash this module with the latest GM software updates specific to your Savana. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your van’s existing systems right out of the box, restoring the performance and reliability you depend on.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Intermittent No-Start
I remember a customer with a ’99 Express van—a sibling to the Savana—that would refuse to start on cold, damp mornings. He’d replaced the battery, starter, and ignition switch, but the problem persisted. When he brought it to my shop, the scanner showed no hard codes, just a history of communication loss. Experience pointed me to the PCM. On these older GM modules, internal solder joints can crack over time from heat cycles and vibration, causing intermittent open circuits. We swapped in a correctly programmed PCM, and the van started reliably every single time after that. It’s a classic failure mode that a simple part swap can fix for good.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Telltale PCM Failure Signs?
A failing computer can manifest in confusing ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty PCM is a very likely culprit. This 1998-1999 Savana 1500 PCM is the direct solution.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with communication-related codes (like P0601, P0605).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Poor or declining fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Stalling, sputtering, or rough idling for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM in your Savana is a manageable job for a DIYer. Since we handle the programming, you just need to perform the physical swap and a simple security relearn procedure. Here’s a general guide:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On the 1998-1999 Savana, the PCM is typically located in the engine compartment, on the driver’s side (LH rear engine compartment).
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip and remove 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 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. You should hear a click as they lock into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (CRITICAL): You will need to perform the GM Passlock/VATS security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeating this cycle three times. This allows your vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new PCM.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, identified by part numbers including 16250279 and service ID 9355699, is a direct fit for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. While this listing is for the 1998-1999 Savana 1500 PCM, it also fits the following vehicles. Please match your part number to ensure compatibility.
GMC 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP (1998-1999)
CHEVROLET EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN (1998-1999)
GMC SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN (1998-1999)
CADILLAC ESCALADE (1999)
CHEVROLET SUBURBAN 1500/2500 (1998-1999)
CHEVROLET TAHOE (1998-1999)
GMC YUKON (1998-1999)
CHEVROLET ASTRO (1998)
GMC SAFARI (1998)
OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA (1998)
GMC ENVOY (1998)
CHEVROLET BLAZER S10 / GMC JIMMY S15 (1998)
CHEVROLET S10 / GMC SONOMA (1998)
ISUZU HOMBRE (1998)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is essential. We use it to load the exact, factory-correct software and calibrations for your specific vehicle’s engine, transmission, and options. This ensures seamless integration and proper function without a trip to the dealer.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a thoroughly tested, used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This provides a reliable, cost-effective solution compared to a new dealer part, while still delivering original factory performance once programmed.
What is the security relearn procedure?
The security relearn syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system (VATS/Passlock). Without it, the vehicle will not start. The process is simple and requires no tools, typically involving a 30-minute key-cycling procedure. Instructions are readily available online for your specific model.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal PCM failure (like code P0601), then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, if the light is on due to a bad sensor or other component, you will still need to fix that underlying problem. This PCM provides a healthy ‘brain’ for your engine’s systems.
Do I need to match the part number exactly?
Yes, matching the service number (e.g., 16250279 or 09355699) from your original module is crucial to ensure the hardware is correct. While our programming tailors the software, the internal hardware must be compatible. Please check the sticker on your current PCM.