Restore Your GM Truck’s Performance and Reliability
If your 1998 Oldsmobile Bravada or a similar GM truck is suffering from frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, erratic engine behavior, or a no-start condition, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. As the brain of your vehicle’s engine, a faulty PCM can cause a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose. This is a reliable, tested, and correctly programmed replacement engine computer, part number 16250279, designed to get your vehicle running smoothly again without a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
Over my 20 years in the shop, I’ve seen hundreds of these GM vehicles from the late 90s. The original PCMs are prone to failure from heat cycles and aging internal components. Replacing it with a junkyard part without proper programming is a recipe for disaster—it simply won’t work. We solve that problem by taking a quality, used OEM computer and flashing it with the latest official GM software specifically for your vehicle’s VIN. This ensures all parameters for the fuel system, transmission, and emissions are correct right out of the box. This is the most effective way to solve complex electronic issues and restore factory performance.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall
A customer brought in a ’98 GMC Jimmy (which shares the same platform and 1998 Bravada PCM) with a maddening problem: it would randomly stall at traffic lights, but only after it was fully warmed up. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a history of random misfires. We checked fuel pressure, the ignition system, and sensors—all tested fine. From experience, I knew that heat-soak can cause hairline cracks in the PCM’s circuit board to expand, breaking a connection. We swapped in one of our pre-programmed modules, and the problem vanished instantly. It’s a classic failure mode for these units, and this replacement is the direct solution.
Is Your Vehicle Exhibiting These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ Engine stalls, stumbles, or misfires for no apparent reason.
- ✔ The vehicle won’t start, but the battery and starter are good.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your programmed PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Following these steps will ensure a smooth process.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these vehicles, the PCM is located in the engine compartment. For the Bravada, Jimmy, and S10, it’s typically on the passenger side firewall or inner fender. For vans and full-size trucks, it’s often on the driver’s side inner fender.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs; be gentle to avoid breaking them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. There are usually two or three bolts holding it in place.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely fasten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click securely into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will need to perform a security relearn procedure (often called a CASE relearn or Passlock relearn). This simple procedure involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeating two more times. This allows your vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new PCM. After this, your vehicle should start and run correctly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service number 16250279 and is compatible with several other part numbers including 09355699, 16266645, 16258815, and 09366810. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. This unit fits a wide range of GM models, and providing your VIN is essential for correct programming.
Fits Models Including:
- Oldsmobile Bravada: 1998 (4.3L)
- Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma: 1998 (4.3L)
- Chevrolet Blazer / GMC Jimmy / GMC Envoy: 1998 (4.3L)
- Chevrolet Astro / GMC Safari: 1998
- Chevrolet/GMC C/K 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickups: 1998-1999 (Gasoline Engines)
- Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon / Cadillac Escalade: 1998-1999 (Gasoline Engines)
- Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana Vans (1500, 2500, 3500): 1998-1999 (Gasoline Engines)
- Isuzu Hombre: 1998 (4.3L)
Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Correct fitment is guaranteed when you provide your VIN for programming. Please ensure your original module has ID 9355699 or a compatible part number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything after I install it?
Yes. While the core engine and transmission programming is done for you, you must perform a security relearn procedure (also known as Passlock or CASE relearn). This syncs the PCM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system and is required for the engine to start. It’s a simple process that takes about 30 minutes and requires no special tools.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, tested used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. We inspect and verify each unit before programming it with the latest GM software for your specific VIN. This provides OEM reliability at a fraction of the cost.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, please send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot program and ship your module without it. The VIN is typically found on your driver’s side dashboard (viewable through the windshield) or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM also controls transmission functions, including shift points and line pressure. If your shifting problems are caused by faulty electronic commands from the PCM, this part will resolve them. However, it will not fix internal mechanical failures within the transmission itself.
What if my part number is slightly different?
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 09355699, 16266645, 16250279, and more. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list and you provide a VIN, we will ensure the software loaded is a perfect match.