Is your 1999-2000 GMC Sierra 1500 or other compatible GM truck giving you headaches? If you’re dealing with a persistent check engine light, rough idling, stalling, or poor fuel mileage, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. As the ‘brain’ of your vehicle, the PCM controls everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shift points. When it starts to fail, it can cause a host of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems.
I’ve spent over two decades under the hood of trucks just like yours, and I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty PCM can sideline a perfectly good vehicle. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a reliable solution. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair by pre-programming this module specifically for your truck using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means it arrives at your door with the latest GM software updates already installed, ready for a straightforward, plug-and-play installation. You get to skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming—a savings of both time and money.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Intermittent Stall
A customer brought in his 2000 Sierra 1500 with the 4.3L V6. The complaint was a maddening intermittent stall at stoplights. He’d already replaced the fuel pump and filter, but the problem persisted. No check engine light was on, making it tricky. After hooking up my pro-level scan tool and monitoring live data, I noticed the PCM would momentarily lose communication right before the engine quit. It was a classic sign of internal circuit board failure, common in these modules after years of heat cycles. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, and the truck ran perfectly. It’s a reminder that symptoms aren’t always what they seem, and the PCM is a critical component to consider.
Is Your Truck Exhibiting These Failure Signs?
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution for your 1999-2000 Sierra 1500 PCM issues:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, or P0606 (Internal Module Failure).
- ✔ Your vehicle will not start or is difficult to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Engine stalling or running rough for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions inspection.
- ✔ Communication errors with scan tools (U-series codes).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM on your Sierra or other compatible GM vehicle is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour with basic hand tools. This pre-programmed module makes it even simpler.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On most 1999-2000 Sierra and Silverado models, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, often under a plastic cover or near the battery.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harness 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, pre-programmed PCM into place. Securely reconnect the electrical harnesses, making sure they click and lock into position.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to complete a security relearn procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Your vehicle’s service manual will have the specific steps if required.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, identified by part number 16263494, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. Please verify your vehicle is on this list and, if noted, that the ID on your original module matches. This part is a confirmed fit for the 1999-2000 Sierra 1500 PCM with a 6-cylinder engine.
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SAVANA 1500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
ASTRO 00-01 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), ID 16263494
GMC 3500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
S10/S15/SONOMA 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.3L
SAVANA 1500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
ASTRO 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), (4.3L), ID 16263494
ISUZU HOMBRE 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.3L (6 cylinder)
SAFARI (GMC) 99-01 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
GMC 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.0L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 98 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), w/build date opt ZN4
GMC 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.7L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
TAHOE 00 Electronic Control Module; Classic style (LH front engine compartment)
YUKON 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
ESCALADE 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
ESCALADE 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
S10/S15/SONOMA 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-262 (4.3L), w/build date opt ZN4
YUKON 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), Denali
BRAVADA 98 Electronic Control Module; (6-262, 4.3L), w/build date opt ZN4
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
GMC 3500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
ISUZU HOMBRE 98 Electronic Control Module; 4.3L (6 cylinder), w/extended build date opt ZN4
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6 cylinder
SAVANA 2500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SUBURBAN 1500 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.7L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
GMC 2500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6 cylinder
SUBURBAN 2500 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 1500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
TAHOE 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
BRAVADA 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.0L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 2500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
SAVANA 2500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
ENVOY 98 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), w/build date opt ZN4
GMC 2500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
This module also directly replaces part numbers: 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787, 21811787.
What is VIN programming and why is it important?
What is VIN programming and why is it important?
VIN programming is the process of loading your vehicle’s specific software onto the PCM. This includes information about your engine, transmission, and factory options. It’s critical because it ensures all components communicate correctly for optimal performance, fuel economy, and emissions. Our service saves you a trip to the dealer.
Do I need to do anything after installing this PCM?
In most cases, no. Because the module is pre-programmed, it’s a plug-and-play installation. Some GM vehicles may require a simple security relearn procedure (often called a CASE relearn or Passlock relearn), which can typically be done without special tools. Instructions are widely available online or in your service manual.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit VIN. You can typically add this in the notes section at checkout or reply to your order confirmation email. We cannot ship your PCM until we receive your VIN, as the programming is specific to your truck.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the PCM (like codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this part will solve the problem. However, the check engine light can be triggered by hundreds of other issues. It’s always best to have the codes read by a scan tool to properly diagnose the problem before ordering parts.