Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your 1999-2002 Savana 1500 Van or other GM vehicle suffering from frustrating issues like intermittent stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or unpredictable shifting? As the central computer of your vehicle, a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) can cause a host of problems that are often misdiagnosed. I’ve seen countless hours and dollars wasted in the shop on replacing sensors and fuel pumps when the root cause was a faulty PCM. This module is the direct, reliable solution to restore your vehicle’s drivability and efficiency.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We flash this PCM with the latest official GM software updates, tailored specifically to your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This critical step ensures seamless communication with all other onboard systems and often corrects factory flaws that were discovered after your vehicle was built. By getting a pre-programmed module, you bypass the expensive trip to the dealership for programming, making this a smart, cost-effective repair for both seasoned mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.
Case Study: The Phantom Stall on a Work Van
A local contractor brought in his 2001 Express van, a workhorse that was suddenly unreliable. It would start fine cold, but after 30 minutes of driving, it would stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for an hour. No consistent codes were stored, just a random P0300 (misfire) now and then. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and crank sensor. In my experience, heat-soak failure on these PCMs is a classic symptom. We connected a scan tool to monitor live data and saw the injector pulse width and timing data go haywire right as it died. A replacement, pre-programmed PCM like this one solved the problem permanently. It’s a textbook example of how a failing computer can mimic a mechanical issue.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM
- ✔ Check Engine Light (CEL) is on with codes like P0601, P0602, P0606, or other communication errors.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling, especially after the vehicle has warmed up.
- ✔ Poor or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Rough idle or engine misfires.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions inspection.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- ✔ Locate the PCM: On most Express/Savana vans, you’ll find it in the LH (driver’s side) rear of the engine compartment. On trucks and SUVs, it’s often on the driver’s side front fender or under the battery tray. Always verify the location for your specific model.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical wiring harness connectors. These have locking tabs, so be gentle and do not force them. Inspect the pins for any corrosion.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you will need it for the new module.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn: In most cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. This allows the new PCM to synchronize with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Your vehicle will not start until this is completed.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16263494, 16265035, and 8162634940. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles (please verify your specific options):
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SAVANA 1500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
ASTRO 00-01 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), ID 16263494
GMC 3500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
S10/S15/SONOMA 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.3L
SAVANA 1500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
ASTRO 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), (4.3L), ID 16263494
ISUZU HOMBRE 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.3L (6 cylinder)
SAFARI (GMC) 99-01 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
GMC 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.0L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 98 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), w/build date opt ZN4
GMC 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.7L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
TAHOE 00 Electronic Control Module; Classic style (LH front engine compartment)
YUKON 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
ESCALADE 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
ESCALADE 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
S10/S15/SONOMA 98 Electronic Control Module; 6-262 (4.3L), w/build date opt ZN4
YUKON 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), Denali
BRAVADA 98 Electronic Control Module; (6-262, 4.3L), w/build date opt ZN4
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
GMC 3500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
ISUZU HOMBRE 98 Electronic Control Module; 4.3L (6 cylinder), w/extended build date opt ZN4
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6 cylinder
SAVANA 2500 VAN 00 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SUBURBAN 1500 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.7L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
GMC 2500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6 cylinder
SUBURBAN 2500 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 1500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
TAHOE 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
BRAVADA 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.0L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 2500 VAN 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
SAVANA 2500 VAN 01-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
ENVOY 98 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), w/build date opt ZN4
GMC 2500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is essential for us to load the exact, correct software for your vehicle’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and function right out of the box.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
No, this is a great DIY-friendly repair. The physical swap is just a few bolts and electrical connectors. The only extra step is a simple key-on security relearn procedure that takes about 10-15 minutes and requires no special tools.
Will I need to do a CASE relearn?
A Crankshaft Variation Relearn (CASE) may be required to clear a P1336 trouble code after installation. While many vehicles operate fine without it, a professional scan tool is needed to perform this procedure if the code appears. Most local repair shops can perform this service quickly.
What if my part number isn’t listed but my vehicle is?
Please contact us with your VIN and original part number. GM used many superseded numbers. We can verify compatibility to ensure you receive the correct module for your vehicle.