Restore Your Engine’s Brain and Get Back on the Road
Is your trusty 1998 Buick Century or other GM vehicle suddenly giving you headaches? Unexplained stalling, a persistent check engine light, or a complete refusal to start can be incredibly frustrating. In my 20+ years as a technician, I’ve seen these exact symptoms countless times, and they often point to one critical component: a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the central computer managing your engine’s performance and efficiency. When it falters, your whole vehicle suffers.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution. This Powertrain Control Module is a direct-fit replacement, but with one crucial advantage: we program it specifically to your vehicle’s VIN before it ships. This means it arrives at your door ready for installation, loaded with the latest GM factory software updates. You get to skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming and avoid the hassle of coordinating with a local shop. This is the most efficient way to solve complex electronic issues and restore your vehicle’s original performance.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Stalling Century
A customer brought in a 1998 Buick Century with a really tricky problem. It would run fine for days, then suddenly stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for 10-15 minutes. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a history of random communication errors. We checked fuel pressure, ignition components, and wiring harnesses—all were fine. Based on my experience with these GM platforms, I suspected the PCM was failing internally when it got hot. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and the problem vanished instantly. The customer was thrilled to have their reliable car back without spending a fortune on diagnostic guesswork. This is a classic example of how a failing PCM can create ghost-like issues that are impossible to pin down with conventional methods.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Signs of PCM Failure?
A faulty PCM can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your engine computer is a likely culprit:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0605 (Internal Control Module Read Only Memory (ROM) Error).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough idling, especially after the engine warms up.
- ✔ Noticeably poor fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ The cooling fans run constantly or not at all.
A Straightforward Guide to Your PCM Installation
Replacing the PCM on these vehicles is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Our pre-programmed module makes it even simpler.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait about 10 minutes to ensure the system is fully discharged.
- Locate the PCM: On many of these GM models, the PCM is located inside the air filter box in the engine compartment. You may need to remove the air intake ducting and the top of the airbox to access it.
- Disconnect the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Never force them.
- Remove the Old PCM: Unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New PCM: Bolt your new, pre-programmed module into place. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Final Steps: Reassemble the airbox and intake components. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to go through a security relearn procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Your vehicle is now ready to start.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 09356741, 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- 1998-1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass
- 1998-1999 Pontiac Grand Am (3.1L, 3.4L)
- 1998 Buick LeSabre (3.8L)
- 1998 Buick Park Avenue (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Venture (3.4L)
- 1999 Oldsmobile Alero (3.4L)
- 1998 Buick Riviera (3.8L)
- 1998 Buick Century (3.1L)
- 1998 Buick Skylark (3.1L)
- 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
- 1998 Oldsmobile Achieva (3.1L)
- 1998 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight
- 1998 Oldsmobile Silhouette
- 1998 Pontiac Firebird (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (3.1L)
- 1998 Oldsmobile Intrigue
- 1998 Chevrolet Lumina Car
- 1998 Pontiac Bonneville
- 1998 Chevrolet Camaro (3.8L)
- 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
- 1998 Buick Regal
- 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
Your VIN is essential for us to program the PCM with the correct factory software for your vehicle’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and performance right out of the box.
Is this truly a plug-and-play installation?
Yes. Because we handle all the programming, you will not need to take the vehicle to a dealer. Simply install the module, perform a standard security relearn if needed, and you’re ready to go.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the original PCM (like a P0601 code), this replacement module will resolve the issue. It’s crucial to ensure the PCM is the actual cause of the problem.
Where is the PCM located on my 1998 Century?
On the 1998 Buick Century, the Powertrain Control Module is typically housed inside the engine’s air cleaner assembly. You’ll need to open the airbox to access and replace it.
Do I need to return my old PCM?
This listing does not require a core return, saving you the time and expense of shipping your old, faulty part back.
What if my original part has a different service number?
Please check the list of compatible service numbers provided in our description. This module replaces several different numbers, so as long as yours is on the list, it will work perfectly.