Restore Your Truck’s Brain and Bring It Back to Life
If your trusty 1998-1999 Chevy Tahoe or GMC Yukon is suddenly acting up—stalling for no reason, refusing to start, or shifting erratically—the problem often points to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer of your vehicle, when the PCM goes, it can cause a host of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that sidelines your vehicle. I’ve seen these exact symptoms hundreds of times in my shop, and a faulty PCM is one of the most common culprits on these otherwise bulletproof GM trucks.
We offer a straightforward, reliable solution: a tested, OEM engine computer that we program specifically to your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Before we ship it, we flash it with the latest GM software updates. This means you get a part that’s ready to install right out of the box, restoring the performance and reliability you depend on without the high cost and hassle of a dealership visit for programming.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Machine
A customer brought in his ’99 Suburban with a problem that had stumped two other shops: it would run fine for about 20 minutes, then stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for an hour. There were no consistent trouble codes, just pure frustration. After checking fuel pressure and spark, which were fine when it was running, I suspected a heat-related electronic failure. I focused on the 1998-1999 Tahoe PCM, as they’re known to fail under thermal stress. After letting the truck run in the bay until it stalled, a quick spray of electronics cooler on the PCM case allowed it to fire right back up. The internal circuits were failing when they got hot. We replaced it with a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the customer called a week later to say his truck had never run better. This simple swap solved the “ghost” that had been plaguing him for months.
Is Your GM Truck or Van Showing These Signs of PCM Failure?
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with internal module codes like P0601, P0602, or P0605.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start, or starts intermittently.
- ✔ Your vehicle stalls unexpectedly while driving or at idle.
- ✔ You’re experiencing harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A noticeable, unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
Your Straightforward PCM Installation Guide
Installing your programmed 1998-1999 Tahoe PCM is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour. While the module is plug-and-play, these GM vehicles require a security relearn procedure to sync the new PCM with your keys. It’s simple and requires no special tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the fender or firewall.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once unplugged, unbolt the module from its bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new PCM into place and securely plug in the electrical connectors until they click.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (CRITICAL STEP): Do not attempt to start the engine yet. Insert the key and turn it to the ‘ON’ position (don’t crank). The security light may be on or flashing. Leave the key ‘ON’ for 10-12 minutes, or until the security light goes out. Turn the key off for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle two more times (for a total of three 10-minute cycles). After the third cycle, the vehicle will have learned the new PCM and should start normally.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for multiple part numbers, including 16250279, 09355699, and 16266645. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles with service ID 9355699. Please provide your VIN upon purchase to ensure perfect programming.
- 1998-1999 Chevrolet/GMC Tahoe & Yukon
- 1998-1999 Chevrolet/GMC Suburban 1500 & 2500 (Gasoline)
- 1998-1999 Chevrolet/GMC C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickups (Gasoline)
- 1998-1999 Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana 1500, 2500, 3500 Vans (Gasoline)
- 1999 Cadillac Escalade
- 1998 Chevrolet Astro & GMC Safari
- 1998 Oldsmobile Bravada, GMC Envoy, Chevrolet Blazer S10, GMC Jimmy S15 (4.3L)
- 1998 Chevrolet S10 & GMC Sonoma (4.3L)
- 1998 Isuzu Hombre (4.3L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I provide my vehicle’s VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your 17-digit VIN. We cannot program and ship your module without it.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a thoroughly tested, fully functional OEM computer sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This allows us to provide a reliable, cost-effective solution. Each unit is inspected and programmed with the latest software before shipping.
Do I really need to do the security relearn procedure?
Yes. This is a mandatory step. The GM PassLock/PassKey security system will prevent the engine from starting until the relearn procedure is successfully completed. It syncs your vehicle’s anti-theft system to the replacement 1998-1999 Tahoe PCM.
What if my original part number is not 16250279?
This module replaces several part numbers. Please check the compatibility list, which includes part numbers like 09355699, 16266645, 16258815, and more. As long as your vehicle is on the fitment list, we will program this module to work perfectly.
Will this fix my transmission problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM controls both engine and transmission functions. If the computer is failing, it can cause poor shifting, which a replacement PCM will correct. However, this will not fix internal mechanical issues with the transmission itself.