Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
If you’re wrestling with baffling engine problems on your 1999-2000 Chevrolet 2500 Pickup—like a persistent check engine light, erratic idling, or a no-start condition that leaves you stranded—the culprit is often the vehicle’s central computer, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing PCM can mimic a dozen other issues, leading to wasted time and money on unnecessary parts. This isn’t just a component; it’s the brain of your engine and transmission, and when it falters, your truck’s reliability disappears.
We offer a straightforward, dependable solution. This Powertrain Control Module is not just a replacement part; it’s a complete fix that arrives at your door ready for installation. We take your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and program the module with the very latest software updates directly from GM. This critical step ensures all factory-addressed drivability issues, fuel mapping improvements, and transmission shift logic corrections are loaded, restoring your vehicle’s performance and efficiency. By purchasing this 1999-2000 Chevrolet 2500 PCM, you bypass the expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you both time and significant cost.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2000 GMC Sierra that came into my bay with a complaint of intermittent stalling and hard shifting. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and a handful of sensors based on forum advice. The codes were all over the place—random misfires, a transmission communication fault, and a vague internal processor error. After verifying the wiring and grounds were solid, experience pointed me straight to the PCM. These units, especially after 20+ years of heat cycles and vibration, can develop internal faults that create these ‘ghost’ problems. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one. The truck fired up instantly, the shifting smoothed out, and all the codes vanished. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most complex problems have the simplest, most central solution.
Is Your GM Truck or Van Showing These Signs?
A failing PCM can cause a wide range of symptoms. If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a faulty module could be the root cause:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), P0605 (Internal Control Module ROM Error), or various communication (U-series) codes.
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Rough or unstable idle.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling, especially when coming to a stop.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions/smog test.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM is a job most DIY mechanics can handle in under an hour with basic hand tools. This pre-programmed module makes the process even simpler.
- Safety First: Always 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 GM trucks and vans of this era, the PCM is located in the engine compartment. Check the driver’s side (LH) fender, sometimes under a plastic cover or near the battery tray. On S10/Blazer models, it’s often on the passenger (RH) side.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the large electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, programmed PCM into place. Firmly reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring the locking tabs click securely into position.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle is now ready to start. For optimal performance, a Crankshaft Variation (CASE) relearn procedure using a compatible scan tool is recommended but not always required for the vehicle to run.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your vehicle is on this list and that your existing module carries one of the compatible part numbers (16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787). This part is confirmed to fit the following:
- Chevrolet & GMC 1500/2500/3500 Pickups (1999-2000)
- Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (1999-2000, 4.3L V6)
- Chevrolet Tahoe & GMC Yukon (1999-2000)
- Cadillac Escalade (1999-2000)
- Chevrolet & GMC Express / Savana Vans 1500/2500/3500 (1999-2002)
- Chevrolet Astro & GMC Safari Vans (1999-2001)
- Chevrolet S10, GMC Sonoma, Oldsmobile Bravada, Isuzu Hombre (1998-2000, 4.3L)
- Chevrolet Blazer, GMC Jimmy, Oldsmobile Bravada, GMC Envoy (1998-2000)
- And more. Please consult the detailed fitment list for specific options and IDs.
Getting your truck or van back to factory-spec operation is simple. Order this pre-programmed 1999-2000 Chevrolet 2500 PCM and provide your VIN at checkout to receive a module that’s ready to solve your engine management problems right out of the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming process work?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our technicians use this to load the exact, most current GM-certified software for your specific vehicle configuration before shipping the module to you.
Is this part truly ‘plug and play’?
Yes, for the most part. Because it’s pre-programmed to your VIN, your vehicle will start and run upon installation. However, for perfect transmission shifting and idle characteristics, a ‘CASE Relearn’ (Crankshaft Position System Variation Learning) with a professional scan tool is recommended. This is a quick procedure any competent shop can perform.
Where is the PCM located on my 2000 Chevy 2500 Pickup?
On the 1999-2000 Chevrolet 2500 Pickup with a gasoline engine, the PCM (or ECM) is typically found in the engine bay, mounted on the driver’s side (LH) inner fender or near the battery.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to an internal PCM failure (like codes P0601, P0605), then yes, this will resolve the issue. It’s crucial to ensure other potential causes, like faulty sensors or wiring, have been properly diagnosed and ruled out first.
How do I find the part number on my old module?
The original part number is printed on a sticker affixed to the case of your current PCM. Look for a number like 16263494 or 16265035 to confirm compatibility.