Is Your GM Truck or SUV Suffering from Mysterious Electrical Gremlins?
If your 1999 Cadillac Escalade, Chevy Tahoe, or GMC Yukon is experiencing frustrating issues like a no-start condition, erratic idling, stalling, or a persistent Check Engine Light, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is a very likely culprit. As the central computer for your engine and transmission, its proper function is critical. Over time, heat cycles and vibrations can cause internal components to fail, leading to symptoms that can be maddening to diagnose. This isn’t just an inconvenience; a failing PCM can leave you stranded and cause poor fuel economy and performance.
This is a reliable, tested, and pre-programmed 1999 Escalade PCM that serves as a direct-fit replacement. We take the biggest hassle out of the repair process: programming. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, and our technicians will flash this module with the latest GM-certified software specifically for your truck or SUV. This means it arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you a costly trip to the dealership and hundreds of dollars in programming fees.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
I once had a 1998 Chevy K1500 in my bay that would randomly refuse to start. The owner had already replaced the battery, starter, and fuel pump. All the usual suspects checked out. There were no consistent trouble codes, just an occasional communication loss error. After hours of tracing wires, I hooked up a scope to the PCM’s power and ground circuits. I noticed a voltage drop inside the module itself whenever it got warm. We swapped in a known-good, programmed PCM like this one, and the problem vanished instantly. It’s a classic example of how a failing computer can mimic a dozen other issues, and why a reliable, pre-programmed module is such a valuable fix.
Common Signs of a Failing GM PCM
- âś” Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or other communication faults.
- âś” The engine cranks but will not start.
- âś” Unexplained stalling or rough, inconsistent idling.
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- âś” Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- âś” The anti-theft or security light stays on, preventing the engine from starting.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- âś” Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- âś” Locate the PCM: On most of these GM trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine bay, typically on the driver’s side fender well or near the battery.
- âś” Disconnect the Old Unit: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. These often have locking tabs that need to be released. Be gentle to avoid damaging the wiring harness.
- âś” Install the New PCM: Mount the replacement PCM in the original location and securely reconnect all electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- âś” Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- âś” Perform Security Relearn: This is a critical final step. Turn the key to the “ON” position (without starting the engine) for 10-15 minutes. The security light should turn off. Turn the key off for 10 seconds, then the vehicle should start. This procedure syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This engine computer is a guaranteed fit for a wide range of General Motors trucks and vans. It directly replaces part numbers 16266645, 09355699, 9355699, 16250279, 16258815, and 09366810. While it’s a primary fit for the 1999 Escalade PCM, it is also compatible with many of the following vehicles from 1998-1999. Please match your original part number or contact us with your VIN to confirm.
- âś” Cadillac Escalade
- âś” Chevrolet & GMC 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickups (Gasoline)
- âś” Chevrolet Tahoe & GMC Yukon (Gasoline)
- âś” Chevrolet & GMC Suburban (Gasoline)
- âś” Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana Vans (1500, 2500, 3500 Gasoline)
- âś” Oldsmobile Bravada, GMC Envoy, Chevy Blazer S10, GMC Jimmy S15 (4.3L)
- âś” Chevrolet Astro & GMC Safari Vans
- âś” Isuzu Hombre (4.3L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. We flash the module with the latest GM software using the VIN you provide, so it’s ready for installation when you receive it. You will only need to perform the simple security relearn procedure.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple, tool-free process to sync the new PCM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system. After installing the module, you just need to turn the ignition key to the ‘ON’ position for about 10-15 minutes until the security light goes out. Full, easy-to-follow instructions are included.
Is this a new part?
This is a high-quality, fully tested used OEM part sourced from a salvaged vehicle. This allows us to provide a reliable and affordable solution compared to the high cost of a new dealer part.
Where do I provide my VIN?
You can enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during the checkout process or send it to us in a message after your purchase. We cannot ship your order until we receive the VIN for programming.
How do I know if the PCM is really the problem?
Common symptoms include a no-start condition, erratic engine behavior, and specific diagnostic trouble codes like P0601. While this part fixes these issues, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the PCM is the point of failure.