Restore Your Van’s Performance and Reliability
Is your Chevrolet Astro or GM truck acting up? Dealing with a persistent Check Engine light, rough idling, stalling, or poor fuel economy can be incredibly frustrating. These are classic signs that the brain of your engine, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), is failing. Instead of spending a fortune at the dealership for a new module and programming fees, get this reliable, VIN-programmed replacement and solve the problem yourself.
This isn’t just a generic part off the shelf. When you order, we’ll ask for your vehicle’s VIN. Our technicians will then program this module with the latest GM factory software updates specific to your exact vehicle. This ensures perfect communication between the engine, transmission, and other systems, restoring the smooth performance you expect. It arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation, eliminating the need for expensive specialty tools or a trip to the service center for programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2000 GMC Savana work van that came into my shop with a maddeningly intermittent no-start condition. The owner had already replaced the battery, alternator, and starter. It would run fine for days, then refuse to crank. After checking all the basics, I hooked up my high-level scanner and monitored the PCM data stream. I noticed the PCM wasn’t always sending the ‘crank’ signal to the starter relay, even with the key turned. There were no hard codes, just a history of communication loss faults. We swapped in a VIN-programmed PCM like this one, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s often these internal, heat-sensitive failures in the module that cause the most headaches, and a quality replacement is the only true fix.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can cause a wide range of issues. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0605, or P0606 (Internal Module Failure).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough, erratic idling.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test.
- ✔ Intermittent electrical problems that seem to have no source.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to install this part. With basic hand tools, you can get your vehicle running right in under an hour.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the PCM: On a Chevy Astro, the PCM is typically located in the engine compartment, on the driver’s side near the battery. For other models, it may be on the LH or RH side of the engine bay.
- Disconnect the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. These often have locking tabs that need to be released. Note the color-coding of the connectors if applicable.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle is now ready to start. In some cases, a security or CASE relearn procedure may be required, which can be done with a capable scan tool or by following a specific key-on/key-off sequence.
Will This Fit My Truck or Van?
This module is a direct replacement for service number 16263494 and is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles from roughly 1998 to 2002. While it’s a perfect fit for the 1999-2001 Astro, it also fits many Chevrolet, GMC, Isuzu, and Oldsmobile trucks and vans. This includes popular models like the Silverado, Sierra, S10/Sonoma, Blazer/Jimmy, Express/Savana, Tahoe/Yukon, and Escalade. Please verify your original part number or use the compatibility chart to ensure this is the correct part for your specific vehicle and engine combination.
Compatible Part Numbers: 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787, 21811787
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows our technicians to access the exact factory software for your vehicle’s specific configuration—including engine, transmission, and emissions equipment. We program the module with this data and the latest GM updates for optimal performance and a true plug-and-play installation.
Is this a difficult part to install for a DIYer?
Not at all. The physical swap is very simple, typically involving just a few bolts and electrical connectors. Since we handle the programming, you avoid the most complex part of the job. It’s one of the more accessible electronic repairs you can do.
Will I need to do anything else after installation?
In most cases, the vehicle will start and run correctly immediately. Some GM vehicles may require a Crankshaft Variation (CASE) relearn or a security relearn procedure to sync with the new PCM. This can often be done with a capable bi-directional scan tool or by a local repair shop if needed.
What if my original part number is not 16263494?
This module also replaces several other part numbers, including 16265035 and 8162634940. Please check the full list of compatible part numbers in our description to ensure it matches one of the alternatives.