Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your truck or van plagued by frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, rough idling, stalling, or poor fuel mileage? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle. A faulty PCM can disrupt everything from engine timing and fuel delivery to transmission shifting, making your vehicle unreliable. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can leave you stranded. As a technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen how a failing computer can mimic a dozen other problems, leading to costly and incorrect repairs. This replacement module is the direct, effective solution to get your vehicle running smoothly again.
This is a reliable, tested, and used PCM that has been sourced from a salvaged vehicle. The real value is in our service: we flash it with the latest official GM software updates and program it specifically to your vehicle’s VIN before it ships. This means you receive a part that is ready for installation, saving you the time, expense, and hassle of a trip to the dealership for programming. Get your workhorse back on the road with a dependable and affordable fix. By replacing your failing unit with this pre-programmed 1998 Isuzu Hombre PCM, you’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a solution.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a ’99 Chevy Suburban that came into my bay with a complaint of erratic transmission shifting and a random stall at idle. The owner had already replaced the transmission speed sensor and the idle air control valve with no luck. The scanner wasn’t showing any hard transmission codes, just a generic P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error). After verifying power and grounds to the PCM were solid, we knew the internal processor was failing. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, and the truck ran perfectly. It’s a textbook example of how a faulty 1998 Isuzu Hombre PCM or its equivalent can cause symptoms that seem completely unrelated to the engine computer itself.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, P0605, or other communication errors.
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start or has difficulty starting.
- ✔ Rough or unstable engine idle.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Engine stalling for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions inspection.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental contact.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most of these trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, often on the driver’s side fender well or near the battery.
- ✔ Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harnesses connected to the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. It’s typically held in place by a few small bolts or nuts.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the bolts.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new PCM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Final Step: In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary. This can typically be done without special tools by cycling the key. Consult your vehicle’s service information for specific steps if needed.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This PCM is a direct replacement for service numbers 16250279 and 09355699, and is compatible with a wide range of 1998 and 1999 GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. This module is programmed to your VIN, ensuring it works correctly for your specific application.
Fits various 1998-1999 models including: Chevrolet/GMC 1500/2500/3500 Pickups, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, Escalade, Express/Savana Vans, Astro/Safari Vans, S10/S15/Sonoma, Blazer/Jimmy, Bravada, Envoy, and the 1998 Isuzu Hombre PCM with the 4.3L V6 engine. Please confirm the ID number 9355699 on your original part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We program the module to the VIN you provide during checkout. It arrives ready to be installed in your vehicle, with no additional programming required.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, tested used part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This allows us to offer a reliable, pre-programmed solution at a significant cost savings compared to a new dealer part.
Where do I find my vehicle’s VIN?
Your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on a metal plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
What if my original part number is different?
This PCM is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 09355699, 16266645, 16250279, 16258815, and more. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list and your original module matches one of the listed part numbers, this will work.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problem?
The PCM controls both engine and transmission functions. If your shifting issues are caused by a faulty computer, this part is the correct fix. However, mechanical or sensor-related issues within the transmission itself will not be resolved by replacing the PCM. Proper diagnosis is key.