Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your 1999-2000 Cadillac Escalade, or another compatible GM vehicle, suffering from frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues? A failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer of your engine, is often the culprit behind poor performance, a persistent check engine light, or even a no-start condition. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects your vehicle’s reliability, fuel economy, and safety. This replacement 1999-2000 Escalade PCM is the definitive solution to get your truck back on the road, running as it should.
Unlike a generic module from a parts store, this PCM arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We handle the complex part for you. By flashing it with the latest official GM software updates, we ensure it corrects not only your current issues but also addresses any factory-known bugs or drivability concerns. This means you get a component that is truly plug-and-play, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Phantom No-Start
I remember a 2000 Yukon Denali—which shares its platform with the Escalade—that came into my bay on a tow truck. The owner was frustrated; he had replaced the battery, alternator, and starter, but the truck would only crank intermittently and never fire up. There were no obvious codes, just a loss of communication with the PCM when the fault occurred. After checking all the power and ground circuits to the module, we suspected an internal failure. Instead of a costly diagnostic session at the dealer, we ordered a VIN-programmed PCM. The swap took less than 20 minutes, and the truck fired up on the first turn of the key. It’s a classic case where the “brain” simply wears out, and a pre-programmed module is the fastest, most effective fix.
Is Your Truck’s Brain Failing? Common PCM Symptoms
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes related to internal module failure (like P0601, P0602, P0606).
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start or has intermittent starting problems.
- ✔ Rough or erratic engine idle.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy that can’t be explained by other issues.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Stalling for no apparent reason while driving or at a stop.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test.
- ✔ Loss of communication with the scan tool.
Your Straightforward PCM Installation Guide
Installing your pre-programmed 1999-2000 Escalade PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Here’s a general guide:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent any accidental reconnection.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment. Common locations are on the driver’s side fender, near the battery, or on the firewall. For Express/Savana vans, it’s often in the LH rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical harness connectors. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. There are typically a few bolts holding it in place.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely fasten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the harness connectors into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect your negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Some vehicles may require a security relearn procedure, which typically involves cycling the key. In most cases, the vehicle will start and run correctly immediately.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Truck or Van
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. While this listing is focused on the 1999-2000 Escalade PCM, it is also guaranteed to fit many other models. Please verify your original part number matches one of the following: 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, or 21811787. Key compatible models include:
- ✔ Cadillac Escalade (1999-2000)
- ✔ Chevrolet & GMC Pickups (1500, 2500, 3500)
- ✔ Chevrolet Tahoe & GMC Yukon / Denali
- ✔ Chevrolet Suburban
- ✔ Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra
- ✔ Chevrolet S10 & GMC Sonoma / Jimmy
- ✔ Chevrolet Astro & GMC Safari
- ✔ Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana Vans
- ✔ Oldsmobile Bravada & Isuzu Hombre
Please refer to the detailed fitment list to confirm compatibility with your specific year, model, and engine combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VIN programming and why do I need it?
VIN programming loads your vehicle’s unique software, including engine parameters, transmission strategy, and security information, onto the module. Without it, the vehicle will not start or run correctly. We do this for you so it’s ready for installation upon arrival.
Do I need to do anything after installing this PCM?
In most cases, no. The module is plug-and-play. Some vehicles may require a simple security relearn procedure (often called a ‘CASE relearn’ or ‘anti-theft relearn’), which can typically be done without special tools. Instructions are readily available online for your specific model.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit VIN. You can typically find this on your vehicle’s dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your insurance/registration documents.
How can I be sure this part will fix my problem?
While this PCM corrects the common symptoms listed, it’s always best to have a proper diagnosis performed. If you have confirmed the PCM is faulty through diagnostic trouble codes (like P0601) or by ruling out other components (fuel, spark, wiring), this part is the correct solution.
Is this compatible with part number 16263494?
Yes. This module is a direct, compatible replacement for several part numbers, including 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, and 218-11787.