Restore Your GM Truck’s Reliability and Performance
If you’re dealing with a frustrating no-start condition, a persistent Check Engine Light, or unpredictable stalling in your 1999-2000 Chevrolet Tahoe, the root cause is often a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM trucks and vans from this era sidelined by a faulty engine computer. The electronics inside are susceptible to failure from heat, vibration, and age, leading to a host of drivability problems that can be a nightmare to diagnose.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a reliable core and flash it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically programmed to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This crucial step ensures that all factory parameters for fuel delivery, ignition timing, and transmission shifting are perfectly calibrated. You get a module that corrects common factory software bugs and optimizes performance, all without a trip to the dealership for expensive programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2000 Chevy Tahoe that came into the shop with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights and a weird, delayed shift from first to second gear. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a general feeling that the truck wasn’t right. After checking all the usual suspects—fuel pressure, sensors, and wiring—we hooked up a high-end scanner to monitor live data. We noticed the PCM was commanding erratic fuel trim adjustments. On a hunch, we swapped in a known-good, correctly programmed PCM. The stalling vanished, and the transmission shifted like new. It’s a classic example of how a failing 1999-2000 Tahoe PCM can cause symptoms that mimic other component failures, costing you time and money on unnecessary parts.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your engine computer is a likely culprit:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ The transmission shifts harshly, gets stuck in one gear, or shifts at the wrong times.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling or a rough, unstable idle.
- ✔ Communication errors with your OBD-II scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM on these GM trucks is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour with basic hand tools. Our pre-programmed module makes it even simpler. After purchase, just send us your VIN!
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On most 1999-2000 Tahoes, Yukons, and pickups, the PCM is located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, often near the battery or on the inner fender. On Express/Savana vans, it’s typically in the LH rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the colored levers on the wiring harness connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid damaging the pins.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. It’s usually held in by a few 10mm or 13mm bolts.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, VIN-programmed PCM into the bracket. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (instructions are widely available online or in service manuals) to sync the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787, and 21811787. It is compatible with a wide range of GM trucks, SUVs, and vans. Please verify your vehicle from the list below:
CHEVROLET TAHOE (99-00 Classic Style)
CHEVROLET SUBURBAN 1500/2500 (99)
CHEVROLET EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN (99-02)
CHEVROLET S10 / BLAZER (98-00)
CHEVROLET ASTRO VAN (99-01)
GMC SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP (99-00)
GMC YUKON / YUKON DENALI (99-00)
GMC S15 SONOMA / JIMMY (98-00)
GMC SAFARI VAN (99-01)
GMC SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN (99-02)
CADILLAC ESCALADE (99-00)
OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA (98-00)
ISUZU HOMBRE (98-00)
Note: Compatibility may depend on specific options like engine size or build dates. Providing your VIN ensures we send you a perfectly matched and programmed unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. We flash the module with the latest GM updates using the VIN you provide, so it’s ready for installation right out of the box. You will only need to perform the vehicle’s security relearn procedure.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple, tool-free process that syncs the new PCM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system. It typically involves turning the ignition key to ‘ON’ for about 10-12 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeating two more times. Your vehicle will not start until this is completed.
Will this fix my poor gas mileage and rough shifting?
In many cases, yes. A faulty PCM can send incorrect signals to the engine and transmission. By installing a new module with updated software, you restore the precise factory control over these systems, which often resolves performance and efficiency issues.
Is this a reliable part?
Absolutely. We use tested hardware and flash it with stable, official GM software. This process restores the unit to factory specifications, providing a dependable and long-lasting solution for your vehicle.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we receive this information, as it is essential for programming.