Restore Your GM Truck’s Brain and Get Back on the Road
If your late-90s Chevy Tahoe, Suburban, or GMC truck is suddenly stalling, shifting erratically, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light, the problem often points to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen how a faulty engine computer can turn a reliable workhorse into a frustrating, unpredictable machine. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects your vehicle’s performance, fuel economy, and safety. This tested, used PCM is the straightforward, reliable solution you need.
This isn’t just any replacement part. We take the biggest hassle out of the equation: programming. Before we ship this module, we will flash it with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This means it arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you a costly trip to the dealership and their programming fees. It’s a cost-effective way to restore your vehicle’s original performance and clear those stubborn diagnostic trouble codes for good.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Intermittent Stall
A customer brought in his ’99 Suburban 1500 with a problem that was driving him crazy. It would run perfectly for days, then suddenly stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for 10-15 minutes. No consistent Check Engine Light, just a random, infuriating issue. After checking fuel pressure and ignition components, which all tested fine, we focused on the PCM. On these GMT400 platforms, I’ve often seen internal board failures in the PCM cause intermittent no-start conditions due to heat soak. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the problem vanished instantly. It’s a classic failure mode, and this part is the direct fix.
Is Your Truck Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing PCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, or P0605 (Internal Control Module Memory Errors).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough idling.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and noticeable loss of power.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Your PCM Swap
Installing your pre-programmed 1998-1999 Tahoe PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Just follow these steps carefully.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electronic components.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side fender well or near the battery.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harnesses connected to the old PCM. The connectors have locking tabs that need to be released. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you will need it for the new module.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your replacement PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect your vehicle’s negative battery terminal.
- Security Relearn (If Necessary): In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be required. This can typically be done by turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times before starting the engine.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16266645, 09355699, 16250279, 16258815, and 09366810. It is guaranteed to fit the following GM, GMC, Cadillac, and Isuzu models with service ID 9355699:
- Astro Van (1998)
- Blazer S10 / Jimmy S15 (1998)
- Bravada (1998)
- Chevrolet/GMC 1500/2500/3500 Pickups (1998-1999)
- Escalade (1999)
- Envoy (1998)
- Express / Savana 1500/2500/3500 Vans (1998-1999)
- Isuzu Hombre (1998)
- S10 / S15 / Sonoma Pickups (1998)
- Safari Van (1998)
- Suburban 1500/2500 (1998-1999)
- Tahoe / Yukon (1998-1999)
Please ensure your original module has one of the compatible part numbers to guarantee a perfect match. This is a crucial component for your vehicle’s operation, and our VIN programming for your 1998-1999 Tahoe PCM ensures it works correctly right out of the box.
Do I need to do any programming myself?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This is the main benefit of our service. We program the module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before shipping it. This makes the installation process much simpler and saves you a trip to a mechanic or dealer for programming.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can typically find this on your vehicle’s dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a fully tested, functional computer that was carefully removed from a salvaged vehicle. This allows us to offer a reliable, cost-effective solution compared to a brand-new dealership part.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM controls both engine functions and automatic transmission shifting. If your transmission issues are caused by faulty signals from the computer, replacing the PCM will resolve them. However, it will not fix internal mechanical failures within the transmission itself.
What if my original part number isn’t 16266645?
This PCM is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 09355699, 16250279, 16258815, and others listed in the description. As long as your original module carries one of these numbers, this unit will be compatible.