Restore Your Van’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 1998 Chevrolet Express 1500 Van giving you headaches? Unexplained stalling, a persistent check engine light, or erratic engine behavior can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you rely on your vehicle for work or family. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles sidelined by a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your engine and transmission, and when it falters, your whole vehicle suffers. This replacement PCM, part number 16250279, is the definitive solution to get your van running like it should.
We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair. Unlike pulling a module from a junkyard or buying one that requires a trip to the dealership, this unit arrives at your door pre-programmed with the latest GM software updates. All we need is your vehicle’s VIN. This ensures perfect communication between the module and your van’s specific systems, restoring fuel efficiency, smooth shifting, and stable engine operation. By installing a properly flashed 1998 Express 1500 PCM, you’re not just fixing a problem—you’re investing in your vehicle’s long-term health and your own peace of mind.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 1998 Chevy Express 2500 work van that came into my shop with a baffling intermittent no-start condition. The owner, a local plumber, was losing money every time it left him stranded. We checked the fuel pump, ignition system, and wiring—everything seemed fine. The scanner would sometimes show a U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM/PCM) code, but other times it was clean. After hours of chasing ghosts, we decided to swap the PCM. The original module had an internal fault that only appeared when it heated up. With a pre-programmed replacement module installed, the van fired up every single time. The customer was thrilled to have his reliable workhorse back. This is a classic example of how a failing 1998 Express 1500 PCM can create phantom issues that are nearly impossible to diagnose without replacing the unit.
Is Your Van Showing These PCM Failure Signs?
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0605, or U-series communication faults.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Your vehicle experiences random stalling or rough idling.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ The automatic transmission shifts harshly or at the wrong times.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test.
- ✔ Other modules on the vehicle cannot communicate with the PCM.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most 1998 Express vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the battery or firewall.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and unplug the large wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. It’s typically held in by a few 7mm or 10mm bolts.
- ✔ Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in place and tighten the bolts.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new PCM until they click. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn: In many cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle three times. On the fourth try, the vehicle should start.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Truck or Van
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16250279, 09366810, and 09355699. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles. Please match your original part ID to ensure compatibility.
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 98 (RH front engine compartment, w/o build date opt ZN4)
BRAVADA 98 (6-262, 4.3L, w/o build date opt ZN4)
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 98 (RH front engine compartment, w/o build date opt ZN4)
ESCALADE 99 (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 98
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 98 (Gasoline)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 98 (Gasoline)
GMC 1500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
GMC 2500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
GMC 3500 PICKUP 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
ISUZU HOMBRE 98 (4.3L, w/o extended build date opt ZN4)
S10/S15/SONOMA 98 (6-262, 4.3L, w/o build date opt ZN4)
SAFARI (GMC) 98-99 (LH front by battery)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 98
SAVANA 2500 VAN 98 (Gasoline)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 98 (Gasoline)
SUBURBAN 1500 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
SUBURBAN 2500 98-99 (Gasoline, LH front engine compartment)
TAHOE 98-99 (Gasoline, LH engine compartment)
YUKON 98-99 (LH engine compartment)
Why do you need my VIN?
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential because it allows us to program the 1998 Express 1500 PCM with the exact software and calibrations specific to your van’s engine, transmission, and options. This ensures a seamless, plug-and-play installation without needing a trip to the dealer.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, this module is designed to be as close to plug-and-play as possible. Because we pre-program it to your VIN, you can typically install it and perform a simple security relearn procedure right in your driveway. No advanced scan tools are required.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM controls both the engine and the transmission. If your shifting issues are caused by faulty electronic signals from a failing module, this replacement part will resolve them by restoring proper communication and shift commands.
How do I know if my PCM is actually the problem?
Common symptoms include a no-start condition, random stalling, poor fuel economy, and communication error codes (like P0601 or U0100). While it’s best to have a professional diagnosis, if you’ve ruled out more common issues like fuel or spark problems, the PCM is a very likely culprit on these GM vehicles.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No core charge is required for this part. You can keep your old module or recycle it locally.