Is Your GM Truck or SUV Experiencing Critical Failures?
If your 1998 Oldsmobile Bravada, Chevrolet S10, GMC Jimmy, or another compatible GM vehicle is suffering from perplexing issues like stalling, no-start conditions, an illuminated Check Engine Light with multiple codes, or erratic transmission behavior, the root cause is often a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This central computer is the brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission, and when it malfunctions, it can create a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose. Don’t let a faulty computer keep your reliable truck off the road. This genuine, used OEM PCM is the dependable and cost-effective solution you need.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I once had a ’98 GMC Jimmy in the shop that was driving the owner crazy. It would randomly stall at red lights and sometimes refuse to start for an hour. He had already replaced the fuel pump, ignition coil, and crank sensor based on advice from forums. When we hooked up our professional scan tool, we noticed intermittent communication drops with the PCM. After confirming all power and ground circuits to the module were solid, we knew the internal logic was failing. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the truck ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where chasing individual symptoms can be costly, while addressing the core problem—the PCM—is the real fix.
Symptoms of a Failing 1998 Bravada PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The light is on, often with multiple, seemingly unrelated trouble codes (DTCs).
- ✔ No-Start or Hard Starting: The engine cranks but won’t start, or takes an excessively long time to fire up.
- ✔ Stalling and Poor Performance: Your vehicle may stall unexpectedly while driving or at idle, accompanied by rough running, hesitation, or a significant loss of power.
- ✔ Erratic Shifting: The automatic transmission may shift harshly, get stuck in one gear, or shift at the wrong times.
- ✔ No Communication: A scan tool cannot communicate with the PCM, making diagnosis impossible.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: A sudden and unexplained drop in gas mileage can be a sign the PCM is not managing the engine’s fuel delivery correctly.
The Critical Importance of VIN Programming
Simply swapping a used computer from another vehicle will not work. These late-90s GM vehicles have sophisticated anti-theft systems (Passlock/VATS) and specific calibrations for the engine, transmission, and emissions equipment. Our service eliminates the guesswork and costly dealership visits. We use your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to flash this PCM with the latest, most updated software directly from GM. This ensures that the module is perfectly matched to your vehicle’s original configuration, guaranteeing proper function of all systems right out of the box.
Guaranteed Compatibility and Reliability
This unit is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM trucks and SUVs from 1998-1999. It is fully compatible with multiple service numbers, including 09355699, 16266645, 16250279, 16258815, and 09366810. Each module is sourced from a salvaged vehicle and thoroughly inspected to ensure its integrity. By providing a properly programmed, genuine OEM part, we offer a reliable repair that restores your vehicle to its factory operating condition without the high cost of a new module.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your VIN is essential for us to program the PCM with the exact software and calibrations your vehicle requires. This includes engine parameters, transmission settings, and anti-theft information, ensuring a true plug-and-play installation.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, because we program it to your VIN, it is designed to be plug-and-play. However, some GM vehicles of this era may require a simple security relearn procedure after installation, which can typically be done without special tools. Instructions are readily available online for this 10-30 minute process.
What if my original part number is different from 09366810?
That’s perfectly fine. This PCM is compatible with several part numbers, including 09355699, 16266645, and others listed in the description. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, we will program this module to function correctly for your application.
Do I need to do anything else after installing the computer?
After physically installing the module and reconnecting the battery, you may need to perform the security relearn procedure. It’s also a good practice to clear any old trouble codes with a standard OBD2 scanner after the installation is complete.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, tested used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This provides the reliability of a genuine GM component at a fraction of the cost of a new one.
What commonly causes a PCM to fail?
PCM failure can be caused by a variety of factors, including electrical shorts in other components, voltage spikes from improper jump-starting, water intrusion, or simply age and heat cycles causing internal components to break down over time.