Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your 1999-2000 GMC Yukon, Chevy Silverado, or Express van running rough, stalling unexpectedly, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light? You’re not alone. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle, is a common failure point on these workhorse models. When it fails, it can cause a host of frustrating issues, from poor fuel economy and erratic shifting to a complete no-start condition. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a reliability issue that can leave you stranded. This replacement PCM, part number 16263494, is the definitive solution to get your truck back to factory-spec performance and dependability.
The biggest hurdle in replacing a PCM has always been the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. We eliminate that step entirely. Before we ship your module, our team of experienced technicians will flash it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically matched to your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This means it arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation, saving you time, money, and the headache of scheduling a dealer appointment. It’s a true plug-and-play fix for one of your vehicle’s most critical components.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start Yukon
A customer brought in his 2000 Yukon Denali with a maddening problem: it would randomly refuse to start. No crank, no click, nothing. Then, an hour later, it would fire right up. He’d already replaced the battery and starter. After checking all the grounds and power feeds, my scan tool kept losing communication with the engine computer. That’s a classic red flag. On these specific GM platforms, I’ve seen internal circuit board failures in the PCM cause this exact intermittent communication loss, which prevents the security system from authorizing the engine to crank. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM, performed the security relearn, and the problem was solved for good. It wasn’t the starter or the battery; it was the brain telling them what to do.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need. In my shop, these are the most common complaints that trace back to a faulty engine computer.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with communication error codes (like U0100) or internal module failure codes (P0601, P0606).
- ✔ The engine cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Your vehicle stalls for no reason, either while driving or at idle.
- ✔ Noticeably worse fuel economy than before.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass a state emissions inspection.
- ✔ Apparent loss of engine power or hesitation during acceleration.
A Straightforward Guide to Your 1999-2000 Yukon PCM Installation
Replacing the PCM on these GM trucks and vans is a job most DIYers can handle in their own driveway with basic hand tools. Follow these steps for a successful installation.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent any accidental electrical contact.
- Locate the PCM: On most trucks and SUVs like the Yukon, Tahoe, and Silverado, the PCM is located in the engine bay, typically on the driver’s side fender well or near the battery. On Express and Savana vans, it’s often found in the rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors. These can be brittle, so apply steady pressure. Pull the connectors straight out from the module. There are typically multiple color-coded connectors.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need it for the new module.
- Install the New PCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and secure it. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place and the locking tabs are engaged.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it securely.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will need to perform a security relearn procedure (often called a CASE relearn) to sync the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This simple procedure typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeating two more times. Your vehicle should then start.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 16263494 and is also compatible with part numbers 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787, and 21811787. It fits a wide range of popular GM trucks, vans, and SUVs from approximately 1998-2002. Key models include the GMC Yukon, Sierra, Savana, Jimmy, Safari, and Envoy; the Chevrolet Tahoe, Silverado, Suburban, Express, Blazer, and S10; as well as the Cadillac Escalade, Oldsmobile Bravada, and Isuzu Hombre. Please verify the part number on your original module or consult the detailed fitment list to ensure perfect compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. Simply provide your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and we will flash the module with the correct, updated GM software for your specific vehicle. It arrives ready to install.
What is a CASE Relearn and is it difficult?
The CASE (Crankshaft Angle Sensor Error) Relearn is a required procedure that syncs the new PCM with your engine’s crankshaft position sensor. After installation, the vehicle’s anti-theft system also needs to relearn the new module. This is a simple key-cycle procedure that you can do yourself in about 30 minutes. We include clear instructions to guide you through it.
Is this a direct replacement for my original computer?
Yes, this is a direct-fit replacement for vehicles originally equipped with part number 16263494 or any of the listed compatible part numbers. The form factor and connectors are identical to the factory unit.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM controls both engine and transmission functions. If your hard or late shifting is caused by faulty electronic signals from a failing computer, this new module will correct the issue and restore smooth shifting.
What information do you need from me?
All we need is your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can typically find this on your driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on your vehicle’s registration or insurance card. This ensures we load the exact software for your truck’s engine, transmission, and options.