Restore Your Engine’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 1999-2002 Camaro, Firebird, or GM truck suffering from baffling issues like stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent check engine light, or a complete no-start condition? The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle, is often the culprit. Over time, heat, vibration, and age can cause internal components to fail, leading to frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. This replacement PCM, part number 19109040, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently again.
What sets our service apart is the critical programming we perform before shipping. Forget expensive trips to the dealership and the uncertainty of their programming fees. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash this module with the latest, most stable GM-approved software specific to your car or truck. This ensures optimal engine performance, transmission shifting, and fuel economy, straight out of the box. This is the most direct path to solving complex electronic issues and restoring the factory-new drivability you’ve been missing.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start Nightmare
I had a 2001 Camaro SS come into the shop that was giving the owner fits. It would start and run perfectly for weeks, then suddenly refuse to start, with no spark and no fuel pump prime. He had already replaced the crank sensor and fuel pump. After checking all the power and ground feeds to the PCM, which were solid, I suspected an internal failure. On a hunch, I gently tapped the PCM housing with a screwdriver handle while an assistant cranked the engine—it fired right up. The vibrations were enough to temporarily remake a broken internal connection. We installed one of these pre-programmed PCMs, performed the security relearn, and the car has been flawless ever since. It’s a classic failure mode for these units.
Common Signs of a Failing GM PCM
If you’re experiencing one or more of the following, a faulty PCM is a very likely cause. In my 20+ years of experience, these are the most frequent indicators I see in the shop.
- ✔ The engine cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Stalling for no apparent reason, either while driving or at idle.
- ✔ A persistent Check Engine Light, especially with internal module codes like P0601, P0602, or P0606.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and a noticeable loss of engine power.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ The cooling fans run constantly or not at all.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 1999-2002 Camaro PCM is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour with basic hand tools. Follow these steps carefully for a successful replacement.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent any accidental reconnection.
- Locate the PCM: On F-Body cars (Camaro/Firebird), the PCM is located in the engine bay, behind the passenger-side strut tower. On trucks and SUVs, it’s typically under the hood on the driver’s side, below or near the battery.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harnesses connected to the old module. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released before they can be pulled off. Avoid forcing them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. There are usually two or three bolts holding it in place.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the original bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses firmly back into the new PCM until they click into place. Reconnect your vehicle’s negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (CRITICAL): You MUST perform the GM VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) relearn procedure. This syncs the new PCM to your car’s ignition key. The procedure typically takes 30 minutes and requires no special tools (see our FAQ for steps). Your vehicle will not start until this is completed.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 19109040, 09354896, and 9354896. It is guaranteed to fit the following GM vehicles:
- Camaro: 1999-2002 (5.7L Engine)
- Firebird: 1999-2002 (5.7L Engine)
- Corvette: 1999-2000
- Silverado 1500/2500: 1999-2000
- Sierra 1500/2500: 1999-2000
- Tahoe: 2000
- Suburban 1500/2500: 2000
- Yukon / Yukon XL 1500/2500: 2000
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN number?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the PCM with the exact software calibration your specific vehicle requires. This includes details about your engine, transmission, emissions equipment, and other options, ensuring perfect compatibility and performance.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Almost. The module is pre-programmed for your VIN, which handles the complex part. However, you MUST perform a 30-minute Security Relearn procedure after installation so the module recognizes your key. This is a simple process that does not require any special tools.
How do I perform the Security Relearn (VATS) procedure?
1. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (do not start). 2. The security light will be on or flashing. Wait 10-11 minutes until it turns off. 3. Turn the key ‘OFF’ for 5 seconds. 4. Repeat steps 1-3 two more times for a total of 3 cycles. On the fourth attempt, the vehicle should start and run, as the new PCM is now synced with your key.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the old PCM (common codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this will resolve the issue. However, if the light is on due to a separate problem like a bad sensor or wiring issue, that problem will still need to be addressed.
What if I have a different part number on my old module?
This module directly replaces part numbers 19109040, 09354896, and 9354896. If your part number is different, please contact us with your VIN and original part number to ensure we can provide the correct, compatible module for your vehicle.