Is Your 1998 Bravada or GM Truck Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like intermittent stalling, a no-start condition that leaves you stranded, erratic shifting, or a stubborn Check Engine Light, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. In my 20+ years as a technician, I’ve seen these exact symptoms on countless GM vehicles from this era. The PCM is the brain of your vehicle, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed, leading to wasted time and money on parts you don’t need.
The Direct Solution: A VIN-Programmed PCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a reliable, tested, used OEM PCM and program it specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. This ensures it has the latest software updates from GM and communicates perfectly with your engine, transmission, and security system right out of the box. No expensive trips to the dealership for programming are required.
Common Symptoms of a Failing GM PCM:
- โ Engine cranks but refuses to start
- โ Unexplained stalling, especially when warm
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- โ Poor fuel economy and loss of power
- โ Multiple, seemingly unrelated diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- โ Check Engine Light is always on
From the Shop Floor: A Real-World Diagnostic Story
“A customer’s ’98 GMC Jimmy S15 (which uses this exact PCM) came in last week with a classic no-start complaint. They had already replaced the fuel pump and the ignition coil based on advice from a forum, but the problem persisted. We hooked up our scanner and saw no communication with the PCM. A quick check with a test light at the PCM’s main connector confirmed it was receiving power and ground, but the module itself was dead. We installed one of our pre-programmed PCMs, and the truck fired right up on the first try. Itโs a textbook case of how a bad PCM can mimic other failures.”
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
Installing this module is a straightforward job for a DIYer with basic tools. Our VIN programming makes this a true plug-and-play repair.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On your 1998 Bravada, the PCM is typically located in the engine compartment. On trucks and vans, it’s often on the driver’s side fender well or near the battery.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. You should hear a distinct ‘click’.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle is now ready to start.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers. To ensure a perfect match, please verify that the service ID number on your current PCM is one of the following:
09355699, 16266645, 16250279, 16258815, or 09366810.
This part is confirmed to fit a wide range of 1998-1999 GM, Chevrolet, and Isuzu trucks, vans, and SUVs, including the Tahoe, Suburban, Express, Savana, S10, Blazer, and more. Please provide your VIN upon purchase so we can ensure perfect programming for your specific vehicle.