Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Car
Is your 1999-2000 Silverado, Sierra, or other GM vehicle acting up? If you’re dealing with a persistent check engine light, rough idling, poor fuel mileage, or strange transmission shifting, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty engine computer can cause a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. It’s the brain of your vehicle, and when it’s not working correctly, nothing else will.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take a reliable PCM, part number 09354896, and professionally program it with the very latest software updates from General Motors. Most importantly, we flash it specifically to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This means it arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation, saving you the time, cost, and headache of a trip to the dealership for programming.
Case Study: The ‘Bad Transmission’ That Wasn’t
I remember a customer bringing in his 2000 Silverado 2500, convinced the transmission was shot. It was shifting hard, hunting for gears, and occasionally throwing a generic communication code. He’d already gotten a quote for a transmission rebuild that was over $2,500. Before tearing into the transmission, I did a full diagnostic scan. I noticed that the PCM wasn’t communicating consistently with the TCM (Transmission Control Module). After checking the wiring and finding no issues, I suspected the PCM itself was the culprit. We swapped in a VIN-programmed PCM like this one. The total repair time was under an hour. The truck immediately started shifting like it just rolled off the factory floor. That customer saved thousands of dollars by correctly identifying the root cause—a failing computer, not a mechanical failure. It’s a lesson I’ve seen play out dozens of times.
Is Your Truck Exhibiting These Telltale Signs?
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine computer needs attention:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear
- ✔ Stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601 (Internal Memory Checksum Error) or P0606 (PCM Processor Fault)
- ✔ Vehicle won’t start or is very difficult to start
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel economy
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Engine stalling, sputtering, or misfiring
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the biggest benefits of this module is that the complex programming work is already done. Installation is something a confident DIYer can handle in their own driveway. On most 1999-2000 GM trucks, the process is very similar.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electronic components.
- Locate the PCM: On Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, and Suburban models, the PCM is typically located on the driver’s side of the engine bay, under the battery and mounted in a plastic tray.
- Access the Module: You will likely need to remove the battery to gain clear access to the PCM and its mounting bracket.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unplug the electrical wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released before they can be pulled out.
- Swap the Modules: Unbolt the old PCM from its bracket and set it aside. Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM in its place.
- Reconnect and Finalize: Securely plug the wiring harnesses into the new module. Reinstall the battery and connect the negative terminal. Your vehicle is now ready to start.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 09354896, 9354896, and 19109040. It is guaranteed to fit the following models. Please ensure your vehicle matches the options listed.
CORVETTE 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment)
FIREBIRD 99-02 Electronic Control Module; (behind RH strut tower), 5.7L
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 8 cylinder
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 8 cylinder
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
SUBURBAN 1500 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
SUBURBAN 2500 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
TAHOE 00 Electronic Control Module; Silverado style (LH front below battery)
YUKON 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), exc. Denali
YUKON XL 1500 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
YUKON XL 2500 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is VIN programming?
VIN programming is the process of loading your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and factory software into the PCM. This ensures the computer communicates correctly with all other modules in your truck, like the anti-theft system and transmission controller. We handle this for you before shipping.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
Yes. Because we program it to your VIN before it ships, it is ready for installation right out of the box. You will not need to take it to a dealer or mechanic for additional programming. In some cases, a CASE relearn (Crankshaft Position System Variation Learning) may be needed with a scan tool for optimal performance, but the vehicle will run without it.
Where is my VIN located?
You can find your 17-digit VIN on the driver’s side of the dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to an internal failure of the PCM (like codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this will resolve the issue. However, if the light is on for another reason, such as a bad oxygen sensor or catalytic converter, you will still need to fix that underlying problem.