Restore Your Truck’s Performance and Reliability
Is your Chevrolet, GMC, or Cadillac truck or van acting up? If you’re dealing with a persistent Check Engine Light, rough idling, poor fuel mileage, or erratic transmission shifting, the problem might be the very brain of your vehicle: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing PCM can cause a host of frustrating issues that seem impossible to pin down. This isn’t just a part; it’s the central command center for your engine and transmission, and when it falters, your vehicle’s performance suffers.
This Powertrain Control Module, part number 16263494, is the definitive solution. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair. Before this module ships, our experts will program it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically matched to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation, designed to restore your vehicle to its original factory specifications and resolve those nagging drivability problems.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2000 GMC Sierra that came into my shop. The owner had been to two other places trying to solve an intermittent no-start condition and a bucking sensation at highway speeds. No one could find the cause. After checking all the usual suspects—fuel pump, ignition system, sensors—I hooked up my high-level scanner and monitored the PCM data streams. I noticed the processor was randomly dropping communication for milliseconds at a time, just enough to cause chaos but not long enough to set a consistent fault code. It was a classic case of internal PCM failure. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the truck ran perfectly. It’s a fix that brings immense relief to frustrated owners.
Is Your Truck Showing These Signs of a Bad PCM?
A failing computer can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty PCM is a likely culprit. This is especially true if you see diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0602, or P0606.
- âś” Check Engine Light is illuminated
- âś” Vehicle has trouble starting or won’t start at all
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- âś” Harsh or unpredictable automatic transmission shifting
- âś” Engine stalling, stuttering, or misfiring
- âś” Failure to pass an emissions inspection
- âś” Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
Your Step-by-Step PCM Swap Guide
Replacing the 1999 Chevrolet 1500 PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. The key is our pre-programming service, which eliminates the most complicated step. Follow this general guide 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 reconnection.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side fender or firewall. On some vans, it may be in the rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs; be gentle to avoid breaking them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. There are usually two or three bolts holding it in place.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and secure it with the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: For many GM vehicles of this era, you will need to perform a security relearn procedure so the vehicle recognizes the new PCM. This can typically be done without special tools (see our FAQ).
Why a VIN-Programmed 1999 Chevrolet 1500 PCM is the Best Choice
Ordering a module programmed to your VIN is the smartest way to complete this repair. The software on your vehicle’s computer is specific to its engine, transmission, and emissions equipment. Our process ensures you receive a module with the correct, most current software from GM, helping to correct issues that may have been fixed by factory updates over the years. This direct-fit, plug-and-play approach saves you hundreds of dollars in dealership programming fees and gets your truck back on the road faster.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Truck, Van, or SUV
This module is a direct replacement for part number 16263494 and other interchangeable numbers. Please verify your part number or use the compatibility chart below to ensure a perfect fit for your vehicle. We rely on your VIN to ensure 100% correct programming.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your module until we receive this information, as it is essential for correct programming.
Is this part difficult to install?
No, this is a straightforward replacement for most people with basic mechanical skills. Since we program the module beforehand, you will not need any special computer equipment. The main steps are disconnecting the battery, swapping the modules, and performing a simple key-cycle security relearn procedure.
What is a security relearn or CASE relearn?
The security relearn (or Passlock relearn) syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. It usually involves a series of key cycles. A CASE (Crankshaft Angle Sensor Error) relearn may be needed to prevent a P1336 code, but this often requires a bi-directional scan tool. Many vehicles run fine without it, but we recommend having a local shop perform it if the code appears.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to an internal failure of the PCM (like code P0601) or a software-related issue, this module will resolve the problem. However, if the light is on for another reason (e.g., a bad oxygen sensor), you will still need to fix that underlying issue.
What part numbers does this module replace?
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, 218-11787, and 21811787. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, this module will work for you.