Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 1998 Buick Century or another compatible GM model suffering from baffling issues like stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent check engine light, or a no-start condition? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times, and they often point directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM is the brain of your engine, and when it falters, the entire vehicle’s performance suffers. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a major safety and reliability concern.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a fully integrated fix. We take this quality PCM, service number 9357034, and professionally program it with the very latest GM software updates specific to your vehicle’s VIN. This means you receive a module that is ready to install right out of the box, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. By choosing this 1998 Century Powertrain Control Module, you’re not just buying a part—you’re getting a direct path to restoring your vehicle’s original drivability and efficiency.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 1998 Buick Century that came into the shop with a laundry list of complaints: it would randomly stall at red lights, the transmission would slam into gear, and the check engine light was on with a code for an O2 sensor heater circuit. The owner had already replaced the sensor twice with no luck. After checking the wiring, we hooked up the scope to the PCM’s driver for that circuit and found it was dead—no signal. A faulty PCM was causing the ghost code and all the other drivability problems. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and it ran perfectly. It’s a classic case of how a single failing component can create a cascade of confusing issues.
Common Signs of a Failing GM PCM
- ✔ Your vehicle fails to start or stalls intermittently.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ The check engine light (CEL) is illuminated, sometimes with codes like P0601, P0605, or other communication errors.
- ✔ The engine misfires, runs rough, or hesitates on acceleration.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
Your Straightforward PCM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any work.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these GM vehicles, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often inside the air filter box assembly for protection. Consult a repair manual for your specific model if you’re unsure.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs that must be released before they can be pulled away. Avoid forcing them.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket or housing.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Seat your new, pre-programmed 1998 Century Powertrain Control Module in the mounting bracket and secure it.
- ✔ Reconnect and Finalize: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new PCM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle is now ready to start.
Verified Fitment For These GM Models
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your model and engine options below. This part is compatible with service numbers: 09356741, 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314.
- ✔ 1998 Achieva: Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
- ✔ 1999 Alero: Electronic Control Module; (LH center dash), 3.4L, with matching ID
- ✔ 1998 Bonneville: Electronic Control Module
- ✔ 1998 Camaro: Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L)
- ✔ 1998 Century: Electronic Control Module; (6-191, 3.1L)
- ✔ 1998-1999 Cutlass: Electronic Control Module
- ✔ 1998 Eighty Eight: Electronic Control Module
- ✔ 1998 Firebird: Electronic Control Module; 6-231 (3.8L)
- ✔ 1998-1999 Grand Am: Electronic Control Module; with matching options/ID
- ✔ 1998 Grand Prix: Electronic Control Module
- ✔ 1998 Intrigue: Electronic Control Module
- ✔ 1998 LeSabre: Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
- ✔ 1998 Lumina Car: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
- ✔ 1998 Malibu: Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
- ✔ 1998 Monte Carlo: Electronic Control Module
- ✔ 1998 Park Avenue: Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
- ✔ 1998 Regal: Electronic Control Module
- ✔ 1998 Riviera: Electronic Control Module; (6-231, 3.8L)
- ✔ 1998 Silhouette: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
- ✔ 1998 Skylark: Electronic Control Module; 6-191 (3.1L)
- ✔ 1998 Trans Sport: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
- ✔ 1998 Venture: Electronic Control Module; (6-207, 3.4L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the module with the exact software and calibrations specified by GM for your vehicle’s engine, transmission, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and performance.
Is any additional programming required after installation?
No. This module arrives fully programmed and ready for installation. Once installed, you may need to perform a security relearn procedure, which is a simple process that can be done without special tools and instructions can be easily found online for your model.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the original PCM, then yes, this part is the correct fix. It is crucial to properly diagnose the vehicle first, as the light could be on for other reasons like a bad sensor or wiring issue.
Where do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us a message with your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your part until we receive this information to complete the programming.