Restore Your Vehicle’s Core Performance and Reliability
Is your 1999 Oldsmobile Silhouette or other GM vehicle running rough, failing to start, or throwing confusing check engine light codes? A faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit. As the central computer, it manages everything from fuel delivery and spark timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, the symptoms can be frustrating and widespread. This isn’t just a part; it’s the solution to getting your trusted vehicle back on the road with confidence.
We offer a dependable, tested, and pre-programmed PCM with part number 09361735. This is a genuine OEM component sourced from a salvaged vehicle, providing you with a factory-correct part at a fraction of the dealer cost. The real value lies in our service: before this module ships, our technicians will flash it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically calibrated to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming, making it a straightforward fix for both professional mechanics and capable DIYers.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
I remember a 1999 Pontiac Montana that came into the shop with a classic head-scratcher of a problem. It would run perfectly for days, then refuse to start for no apparent reason. The owner had already replaced the battery and starter. After connecting my scan tool, I found no communication with the PCM. Wiggling the harness did nothing. On a hunch, I let the vehicle sit and cool down completely, and it fired right up. This heat-soak failure is a common symptom of internal breakdown in these older PCMs. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the van never had the issue again. It’s a textbook fix for a problem that can seem impossibly random.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of PCM Failure?
A failing engine computer can manifest in many ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, a faulty PCM could be the cause:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start or has intermittent starting problems.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Engine stalling, sputtering, or misfiring for no obvious reason.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions inspection.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your programmed 1999 Silhouette PCM is a manageable job for someone with basic mechanical skills. While specific locations vary slightly by model (most are in the LH engine compartment, under the air filter box), the general process is similar.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the PCM: On most of these GM vans and sedans, the PCM is located in the engine bay, often near the air filter housing. It’s a metal box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical harness connectors from the old module. Inspect them for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you will reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: Many GM vehicles of this era require a security relearn procedure to sync the new PCM with your key’s anti-theft system. This can typically be done without special tools by cycling the key. A quick search for your specific model’s “VATS relearn procedure” will provide the exact steps.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 9361735, is a direct replacement for a wide array of GM vehicles. Please verify the location and part number on your original module to ensure an exact match.
- BONNEVILLE: 1999-2000 (3.8L)
- CENTURY: 1999
- CUTLASS: 1999 (ID 9361735)
- EIGHTY EIGHT: 1999
- GRAND PRIX: 1999-2000 (3.8L)
- IMPALA: 2000 (3.4L & 3.8L)
- INTRIGUE: 1999
- LESABRE: 1999-2000
- LUMINA CAR: 1999
- MALIBU: 1999 (3.1L)
- MONTE CARLO: 1999-2000
- MONTANA: 1999
- PARK AVENUE: 1999
- REGAL: 1999
- RIVIERA: 1999
- SILHOUETTE: 1999
- TRANS SPORT: 1999 (Canada)
- VENTURE: 1999
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. We use it to load the exact, correct GM-certified software for your vehicle’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures the module works perfectly right out of the box.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a high-quality, used OEM part that has been sourced from a salvaged vehicle. Each unit is inspected and tested to ensure functionality before being programmed and shipped.
Will I need to do anything after installation?
Yes. After installing the PCM, you will likely need to perform a Vehicle Anti-Theft System (VATS) relearn procedure. This simple process syncs the new computer to your existing keys and can be done in your driveway in about 30 minutes without special tools.
Does this solve check engine light problems?
Yes, if the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the original PCM (like code P0601), this replacement will resolve the issue. It’s a direct fix for the root cause.