Restore Your Truck’s Reliability and Performance
Is your 1998-1999 Suburban 2500 giving you headaches? Unexplained stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a complete no-start condition can often be traced back to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the electronic brain of your vehicle, the PCM controls everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it falters, your truck’s performance and dependability suffer. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a problem that needs a solid, reliable fix.
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen countless drivers spend a fortune at the dealership for this exact issue. This fully tested, used OEM PCM offers a dependable and cost-effective solution. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair by programming the module specifically to your vehicle using your VIN. It arrives at your door with the latest GM software updates, ready for a straightforward installation. Get your workhorse back on the road without the dealership price tag.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start Mystery
A customer brought in a ’99 Tahoe—same platform as your Suburban—that would randomly refuse to start. It had been to two other shops that replaced the fuel pump and crank sensor, but the problem persisted. After hooking up my scan tool, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM. On these GMT400 trucks, heat cycling and vibration can cause microscopic cracks in the PCM’s internal solder joints. We swapped in a pre-programmed module like this one, and the truck fired up every single time. It was a classic case of the PCM failing internally, a common issue I’ve diagnosed on hundreds of these GM vehicles.
Is Your Suburban Showing These Signs of PCM Failure?
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0605 (Internal Control Module Read Only Memory (ROM) Error).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough idling, especially after the engine warms up.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and a noticeable loss of power.
- ✔ No communication with your scan tool, indicating the PCM is offline.
Straightforward Installation Guide
Installing your programmed 1998-1999 Suburban 2500 PCM is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour. It’s located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- Locate the PCM: Find the module on the driver’s side of the engine bay, typically near the firewall or inner fender.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. There are usually several color-coded connectors.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely tighten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the corresponding slots on the new module. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this 2-3 times to allow the vehicle’s security system to recognize the new PCM. Then, start the engine.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module, identified by service number 16266645 or ID 09355699, is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM trucks, vans, and SUVs. Please match your part number for guaranteed compatibility.
- ✔ Chevrolet/GMC C/K 1500/2500/3500 Pickups (1998-1999)
- ✔ Chevrolet/GMC Suburban 1500/2500 (1998-1999)
- ✔ Chevrolet Tahoe / GMC Yukon (1998-1999)
- ✔ Cadillac Escalade (1999)
- ✔ Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana 1500/2500/3500 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)
Do I need to do any programming myself?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming for you before we ship the part. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and we will flash the module with the latest GM calibration for your specific vehicle. It arrives ready to install.
Is this a new part?
This is a high-quality, tested, and fully functional used OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part recovered from a salvaged vehicle. We inspect each unit to ensure it meets our strict quality standards before programming and shipping.
What is the security relearn procedure?
For many GM vehicles of this era, the Passlock security system needs to sync with the new PCM. This is a simple process you can do yourself, as outlined in the installation steps. It involves cycling the ignition key and waiting, requiring no special tools.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM also controls the transmission’s electronic functions, including shift points and line pressure. If your shifting issues are caused by a faulty module, this replacement part will resolve them. However, it will not fix mechanical issues within the transmission itself.
How do I find my part number to ensure a match?
Your original PCM will have a sticker on it with the service number. For this part, you should look for service number 16266645 or ID 09355699. This module also interchanges with several other part numbers listed in the compatibility section.