Restore Peak Performance to Your GM 3.4L Engine
Is your 1999 Oldsmobile Alero or Pontiac Grand Am suffering from frustrating issues like intermittent stalling, a persistent check engine light, or a complete no-start condition? The Electronic Control Module (ECM) is the sophisticated brain of your vehicle’s engine, and when it begins to fail, it can cause a wide range of baffling problems. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We provide a reliable ECM, part number 9361733, that is professionally programmed with the latest official GM software updates specifically for your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
By handling the complex programming before we ship, we eliminate the most difficult step of the repair. You won’t need a trip to the dealership or expensive, specialized scan tools. This makes it the perfect fix for the savvy DIYer looking to save time and money, or the professional mechanic who needs a dependable part that works right out of the box. Restore your vehicle’s smooth operation, fuel efficiency, and reliability with this plug-and-play 1999 Alero ECM.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 1999 Grand Am with the 3.4L V6 that came into my shop with an intermittent no-start condition that had other mechanics stumped. The owner had already replaced the battery and the crank sensor, but the problem persisted. Diagnostics showed no communication with the powertrain module at times. Instead of just throwing more parts at it, we tested the power and ground circuits to the ECM, which were solid. The culprit was an internal failure in the original ECM, causing it to randomly shut down. Installing a properly programmed module like this one had the car running reliably in under an hour, solving a problem that had plagued the owner for months.
Common Signs of a Failing Engine Computer
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with communication error codes (e.g., U-codes) or internal processor fault codes (e.g., P0601, P0605).
- ✔ Engine stalls unexpectedly while driving or at idle.
- ✔ The vehicle will crank but refuses to start.
- ✔ Noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ The engine runs rough, misfires, or hesitates during acceleration.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifts erratically or harshly.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the Module: On the 1999 Alero and Grand Am, the ECM is located inside the vehicle, on the left-hand side of the center dash/console area. You will likely need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old ECM. They have locking tabs that must be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it.
- ✔ Install the New ECM: Mount the new module securely onto the bracket and reconnect all electrical harnesses. Ensure they click firmly into place.
- ✔ Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn (Crucial Step): Do not skip this! Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (don’t start the engine) for 10 minutes. The security light should turn off. Turn the key ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle two more times for a total of 3 cycles (approx. 30 minutes). The vehicle should now start and run correctly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for the following vehicles, provided the engine is a 3.4L V6 and the original part is identified with number 9361733.
- 1999 Oldsmobile Alero (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash, 3.4L, ID 9361733)
- 1999 Pontiac Grand Am (Electronic Control Module; LH center dash, 3.4L, ID 9361733)
After your purchase, simply provide us with your VIN, and we’ll program this 1999 Alero ECM to ensure it functions perfectly with your specific vehicle’s systems. Get back on the road with confidence.
Do I need to do any programming myself?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This ECM comes fully programmed for your vehicle. We use the VIN you provide to install the latest GM software, so it’s ready for installation right out of the box. The only procedure you need to perform is the security relearn.
Where is the ECM located on my 1999 Grand Am?
The ECM is located inside the car, on the driver’s side of the center console, behind a lower dash panel. It is often referred to as being in the ‘LH center dash’ area.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple process to sync the new ECM with your car’s anti-theft system. You’ll turn the key to ‘ON’ for 10 minutes, ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeat this three times. After the third cycle, the car will be able to start.
How do I give you my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you can send us a message with your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship the part until we receive the VIN, as the programming is essential for it to work.
Will this fix my car’s specific problem?
If your vehicle’s issues are caused by a faulty ECM, then this part is the correct solution. It’s important to properly diagnose the problem, as symptoms of a bad ECM can sometimes overlap with other failing components like sensors or wiring.
Is this part number 09361733 the same as 9361733?
Yes. In automotive parts systems, a leading zero is often omitted but refers to the exact same part. This module is a direct replacement for both 09361733 and 9361733.