Restore Your Truck’s Brain and Get Back on the Road with Confidence
If your 1998-1999 Chevy Tahoe or other compatible GM truck is suffering from frustrating issues like stalling, a persistent check engine light, or erratic engine behavior, the problem often lies with a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty PCM can mimic a dozen other problems, leading to wasted time and money on unnecessary parts. This isn’t just a component; it’s the central command center for your engine and transmission. A failing one can leave you stranded.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution. This PCM, compatible with part numbers 09366810, 16250279, and 09355699, is professionally programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures that all factory settings, transmission shift points, and fuel delivery parameters are perfectly matched to your truck. We install the latest GM-authorized software updates, often correcting factory bugs you didn’t even know you had. This is the key to a true plug-and-play fix, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a ’99 Suburban that came into my bay with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights and a check engine light that would come and go. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and idle air control valve. We scanned it and pulled a P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error). While sometimes a wiring issue can cause this, a quick check of the grounds and connectors showed everything was solid. The intermittent nature of the fault pointed directly to the PCM’s internal processor failing under thermal stress. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the truck ran perfectly. It’s a classic example of how replacing the core component is the only real fix for these internal electronic failures.
Is Your Truck Showing These Signs of a Bad PCM?
A failing PCM can cause a wide range of symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a replacement module is often the solution:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0605, or P0606.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ The vehicle stalls unexpectedly, either while driving or at idle.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM on these GM trucks is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour with basic hand tools. This pre-programmed module makes it even easier.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these trucks and SUVs (like the Tahoe, Yukon, and Pickups), the PCM is located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, near the fender or firewall. It’s a silver box with multiple large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. There are typically release tabs you’ll need to press. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed PCM into place. Securely plug in all the electrical connectors until they click.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: This is a crucial final step. Turn the key to the “ON” position (without starting the engine) for 10-15 minutes. The “Security” light on the dash should turn off. Turn the key off for 10 seconds, then repeat the process two more times. After the third cycle, the vehicle will be ready to start. This syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Truck or SUV
This module is a direct replacement for units with service IDs 16250279, 09366810, or 09355699. Please verify the number on your original part before ordering. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
ESCALADE 99 (LH front engine compartment), ID 16250279
Chevrolet:
ASTRO 98-99 (LH front by battery), ID 16250279
BLAZER S10 98 (RH front engine compartment), w/o ZN4, ID 16250279 or 16258815
CHEVROLET 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment), ID 16250279
EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN 98 (Gasoline), ID 16250279
S10 PICKUP 98 (4.3L), w/o ZN4, ID 16250279 or 16258815
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment), ID 16250279
TAHOE 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment), ID 16250279
GMC:
ENVOY 98 (RH front engine compartment), w/o ZN4, ID 16250279 or 16258815
JIMMY S15 98 (RH front engine compartment), w/o ZN4, ID 16250279 or 16258815
GMC 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment), ID 16250279
SAFARI 98-99 (LH front by battery), ID 16250279
SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN 98 (Gasoline), ID 16250279
SONOMA 98 (4.3L), w/o ZN4, ID 16250279 or 16258815
YUKON 98-99 (LH engine compartment), ID 16250279
Isuzu:
HOMBRE 98 (4.3L), w/o ZN4, ID 16250279 or 16258815
Oldsmobile:
BRAVADA 98 (4.3L), w/o ZN4, ID 16250279 or 16258815
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the PCM with the exact software and calibrations your specific vehicle requires. This ensures perfect compatibility with your engine, transmission, and factory options for a true plug-and-play installation.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
Not at all. For most DIYers with basic tools, this is a straightforward job that takes less than an hour. Our step-by-step guide walks you through the process, including the simple security relearn procedure.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal PCM failure (like codes P0601-P0606), this module is the correct fix. However, you should always ensure other potential issues like faulty sensors or wiring have been ruled out first.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It is a simple process of cycling the ignition key that syncs the new PCM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system. It requires no special tools and is detailed in our installation guide. Your truck will not start until this is completed.
Is this part new or used?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested recycled OEM part that has been professionally programmed with the latest software for your vehicle. It provides original equipment function and reliability.