Restore Your Truck’s Reliability with a Pre-Programmed Engine Computer
Is your Chevrolet 3500 Pickup acting up? Unexplained stalling, a persistent check engine light, or a frustrating no-start condition can bring your work or daily driving to a halt. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless vehicles sidelined by a faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM is the electronic brain of your truck, managing everything from fuel delivery and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, the symptoms can be confusing and lead to expensive, incorrect diagnoses.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair by pre-programming this module specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. This means it arrives at your door with the latest GM software updates, ready for installation. You get a reliable fix that restores your truck’s original performance and drivability without a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2000 Chevy 3500 work truck that came into my shop. The owner was at his wit’s end. It would start fine cold, but after 20 minutes of driving, it would sputter and die. He’d already replaced the fuel pump and filter based on another shop’s advice, with no luck. After connecting my scan tool, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM and a stored P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) code. Voltage and ground tests at the PCM connector were perfect. The culprit was a classic case of thermal failure inside the original PCM. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the truck ran flawlessly. It’s a perfect example of how the right part saves you time, money, and headaches.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty module could be the root cause:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with communication-related codes (e.g., P0601, P0606) or multiple unrelated sensor codes.
- ✔ Your vehicle fails to start or starts intermittently.
- ✔ Rough idling, stalling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Loss of power from the engine.
- ✔ The engine continues to run after the key is turned off.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the 1999-2000 Chevrolet 3500 PCM is a job most DIYers can handle. On your truck, it’s typically located in the LH front of the engine compartment. Always consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle’s location and procedure.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: Find the module in the engine bay. It will have several large wiring harnesses connected to it.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully release the locking tabs and disconnect all electrical connectors from the old PCM. Inspect them for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely reconnect all wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn Procedure: For many of these GM vehicles, you may need to perform a security relearn or a Crankshaft Position (CASE) relearn procedure for the engine to start and run correctly. This can often be done without a scan tool (check your vehicle’s specific procedure) or with a capable diagnostic tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. It is compatible with part numbers 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, and 218-11787. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below. Some models require matching the ID number 16263494 from your original part.
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP 99-00 (Gasoline, 99 w/ID 16263494)
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 99-00 (Gasoline, 99 w/ID 16263494)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 99-00 (4.3L V6)
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 99 (Gasoline, ID 16263494)
TAHOE 99-00 (99 w/ID 16263494, 00 Classic Style)
ASTRO VAN 99-01 (ID 16263494)
BLAZER S10 98-00 (98 w/opt ZN4)
EXPRESS VAN 1500/2500/3500 99-02 (Gasoline, check ID 16263494 for certain years)
S10 PICKUP 98-00 (4.3L, 98 w/opt ZN4)
GMC 1500 PICKUP 99 (5.0L/5.7L, ID 16263494)
GMC 2500/3500 PICKUP 99-00 (Gasoline, 99 w/ID 16263494)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 99-00 (4.3L V6)
YUKON 99-00 (99 w/ID 16263494, 00 Denali)
JIMMY S15 98-00 (98 w/opt ZN4)
SAFARI VAN 99-01 (ID 16263494)
SAVANA VAN 1500/2500/3500 99-02 (Gasoline, check ID 16263494 for certain years)
SONOMA 98-00 (4.3L, 98 w/opt ZN4)
CADILLAC ESCALADE 99-00 (99 w/ID 16263494)
OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA 98-00 (98 w/opt ZN4)
GMC ENVOY 98-00 (98 w/opt ZN4)
ISUZU HOMBRE 98-00 (4.3L, 98 w/opt ZN4)
This is a summary. Please ensure your specific model and options match the detailed list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming work?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians use this to load the correct, factory-approved software for your specific vehicle onto the module before we ship it. This ensures compatibility and proper function.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Yes, the hardware installation is plug-and-play. Because it comes pre-programmed, you do not need a scan tool for software flashing. However, as noted in the installation guide, some GM vehicles require a security relearn procedure to sync the new PCM with your anti-theft system. This procedure can typically be done without special tools and instructions are widely available online.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to an internal failure of the original PCM, this module will resolve the issue. It’s crucial to ensure that the codes are not being caused by a faulty sensor or wiring problem elsewhere in the vehicle. A proper diagnosis is always recommended.
Do I need to return my old PCM?
This listing does not require a core return. You can keep your old module, though we always recommend recycling old electronics responsibly.
What if my part number isn’t an exact match but my vehicle is listed?
This module replaces several original part numbers, including 16263494, 16265035, and 8162634940. As long as your vehicle, year, and engine are on our compatibility list, this module will function correctly once programmed to your VIN.