Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your 1998-1999 Chevrolet Suburban 2500 running rough, refusing to start, or showing a persistent check engine light? A failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit behind these frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. As the central computer for your engine and transmission, its health is critical. This OEM PCM is a reliable, cost-effective solution to get your vehicle running smoothly again. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair by programming the module specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. It arrives ready for a straightforward installation, loaded with the latest factory software from GM.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a customer bringing in his ’99 Tahoe with a list of complaints that seemed all over the map: intermittent stalling at red lights, harsh 1-2 shifts, and a fuel gauge that was acting erratically. He’d already replaced the fuel pump and a couple of sensors with no luck. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw a handful of communication error codes alongside a P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error). For experienced techs, that combination is a huge red flag pointing directly at the PCM. The internal circuitry was failing, sending corrupt data and causing these phantom issues. We swapped in a VIN-programmed PCM like this one, and it was like a new truck. All the gremlins vanished. This is a classic failure mode for these modules after 20+ years of heat cycles and vibration.
Is Your Truck Exhibiting These Classic PCM Failure Signs?
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light with codes like P0601, P0605, or other communication faults.
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start (no-start condition).
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A sudden, significant drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling or rough idling.
- ✔ Communication issues with diagnostic scan tools.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing your 1998-1999 Suburban 2500 PCM is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour. No complex programming tools are required since we do that work for you.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before beginning.
- Locate the Module: On most of these trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine bay, typically on the driver’s side fender well, housed in a black plastic bracket.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical connectors. There are usually multiple color-coded connectors with locking tabs. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old PCM: Unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module into the bracket.
- Reconnect Everything: Securely plug the electrical harnesses back into their corresponding slots. You should hear a click as they lock in place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Start the vehicle. It may take a moment to idle smoothly as the system re-learns. It’s also a good practice to clear any old fault codes with a basic code reader.
Verified Fitment for a Wide Range of GM Vehicles
This module is a direct replacement for service number 16250279 and is also compatible with part numbers 09355699, 16266645, 16258815, and 09366810. It is guaranteed to fit the following models, provided the ID on your original module matches:
- Cadillac Escalade: 1999
- Chevrolet Astro / GMC Safari: 1998
- Chevrolet Blazer / GMC Jimmy S15 / Oldsmobile Bravada: 1998 (w/o build date opt ZN4)
- Chevrolet/GMC C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickup (Gasoline): 1998-1999
- Chevrolet/GMC Suburban 1500, 2500 (Gasoline): 1998-1999
- Chevrolet Tahoe / GMC Yukon (Gasoline): 1998-1999
- Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana 1500, 2500, 3500 Van (Gasoline): 1998-1999
- GMC Envoy: 1998 (w/o build date opt ZN4)
- Isuzu Hombre (4.3L): 1998 (w/o extended build date opt ZN4)
- Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma S15 (4.3L): 1998 (w/o build date opt ZN4)
Note: This is a used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle, professionally tested and programmed to ensure full functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
1998-1999 Suburban 2500 PCM
Do I need to take this to a dealer for programming?
Absolutely not. This is the main benefit of our service. We program the to your vehicle’s specific VIN before we ship it. It arrives ready for installation.