Is Your Truck Running Rough, Stalling, or Throwing Confusing Codes?
If you’re dealing with a frustrating check engine light, unpredictable stalling, harsh shifting, or a no-start condition in your GM truck, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. As the brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission, when it fails, it can create a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a reliability issue that can leave you stranded. I’ve seen countless trucks from this era in my shop where owners have replaced multiple sensors, only to find the root cause was the computer all along.
The Simple, Reliable Solution: A VIN-Programmed PCM
This isn’t just a used part pulled from a shelf. This is a fully tested, OEM Powertrain Control Module that we program specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. This critical step ensures 100% compatibility and loads the latest, most stable software updates from General Motors. These updates often contain fixes for common drivability issues that were discovered after your truck left the factory.
Symptoms of a Failing GM PCM:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various codes
- ✔ Engine stalling or cutting out while driving
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Complete no-start or intermittent starting problems
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and loss of power
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
Expert Pro Tip: After installing this PCM, you may need to perform a simple Security Relearn procedure, also known as the Passlock Relearn. It doesn’t require any special tools. Just turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes (until the security light stops flashing), turn it off for 10 seconds, and repeat two more times. On the third cycle, the vehicle should start. This re-syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system, a step many people miss.
Why Choose Our Programmed 1998 S10 PCM?
Getting your truck back on the road shouldn’t be a complicated ordeal. We handle the complex part—the programming—so you can focus on the simple installation. By matching the software to your VIN, we ensure all the specific options and parameters for your truck are correctly configured, from engine size to transmission type. This is the same process a dealership would perform, but without the high cost and hassle of towing your vehicle in.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 10 minutes for the system to discharge.
- Locate the PCM: On most S10/S15/Sonoma models, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often on the passenger side firewall or inner fender. On vans like the Express/Savana, it may be in the LH rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. Inspect the pins and connectors for any corrosion or damage and clean them with an electronic contact cleaner if necessary.
- Swap the Module: Unbolt the old PCM and secure the new, programmed module in its place.
- Reconnect and Finalize: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses into your new PCM. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Perform the Security Relearn procedure if required. Your truck is now ready to start.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and interchanges with several part numbers. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle in the list below. This unit is compatible with service numbers: 09355699, 16266645, 16250279, 16258815, and 9366810. Providing your VIN during checkout is mandatory for us to ensure a perfect match and a successful repair.