Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 1998 Monte Carlo or other GM vehicle running rough, stalling unexpectedly, or showing a persistent check engine light? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the computer that serves as your engine’s brain. A faulty PCM can wreak havoc on everything from fuel economy to transmission shifting. This replacement PCM, part number 16236757, is the reliable, straightforward solution to get your car running like new again.
We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair. Unlike other sellers, we flash this module with the latest official GM software updates specifically for your vehicle. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we’ll program the unit before it ships. This means no expensive trip to the dealership for programming—it arrives ready for installation right out of the box.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix that came into my shop with a laundry list of confusing symptoms. The owner complained of intermittent stalling at red lights, a check engine light that would come and go, and occasionally, the transmission would shift hard into gear. He’d already replaced a couple of sensors with no luck. A scan showed a few unrelated codes, but the one that caught my eye was a P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error). This is a dead giveaway. The PCM’s internal memory was failing, causing it to send corrupted signals to the rest of the car. We installed one of these pre-programmed modules, and it was like a new car. All the ghost-like issues disappeared instantly. It’s a reminder that when the ‘brain’ is faulty, the symptoms can be all over the map.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
- âś” Check Engine Light is on, often with codes like P0601, P0605, or other communication errors.
- âś” Your engine stalls, misfires, or runs rough for no apparent reason.
- âś” A noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- âś” The vehicle fails to start, even with a good battery and starter.
- âś” Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- âś” Communication issues with your OBD-II scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- âś” Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- âś” 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.
- âś” Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released before you can pull them off. Avoid forcing them.
- âś” Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you will need it for the new module.
- âś” Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware.
- âś” Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect your vehicle’s negative battery terminal.
- âś” Final Check: Start the vehicle. The check engine light may stay on for a short period as the system performs its self-checks. A short drive cycle is often required for all systems to normalize.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 09356741, 16236757, 9357034, 9357440, and 9366314 and is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- ACHIEVA 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
- ALERO 99 (3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9357034, 9357440, 9366314)
- BONNEVILLE 98
- CAMARO 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
- CENTURY 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
- CUTLASS 98
- CUTLASS 99 (ID 16236757)
- EIGHTY EIGHT 98
- FIREBIRD 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
- GRAND AM 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
- GRAND AM 99 (3.4L, ID 16236757, 9356741, 9347440, 9357034, 9366314)
- GRAND PRIX 98
- INTRIGUE 98
- LESABRE 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
- LUMINA CAR 98
- MALIBU 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
- MONTE CARLO 98
- PARK AVENUE 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
- REGAL 98
- RIVIERA 98 (6-231, 3.8L)
- SILHOUETTE 98
- SKYLARK 98 (6-191, 3.1L)
- TRANS SPORT 98
- VENTURE 98 (6-207, 3.4L)
Do I need to program this module?
No! We handle the programming for you. Just provide your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during or after checkout, and we will flash the module with the latest GM software before shipping. It arrives ready to install.
What is a VIN and where do I find it?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is your car’s unique 17-digit serial number. You can typically find it on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Is this a difficult part to install for a DIYer?
For most individuals with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable job. It typically involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging a few connectors, and unbolting the module. Our installation guide above provides the general steps.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty PCM (e.g., internal processor errors), then yes, this module will resolve the issue and allow the light to be cleared. If the light is on due to a bad sensor or other component, that issue will still need to be addressed separately.
What’s the difference between a PCM and an ECM?
The terms are often used interchangeably. PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is more common as it typically controls both the engine and the transmission functions. ECM (Engine Control Module) technically only controls the engine. For this generation of GM vehicles, this part is the PCM.