Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain and Get Back on the Road
Is your 1999 Oldsmobile Silhouette or other GM vehicle suffering from baffling electrical gremlins? Issues like stalling for no reason, erratic transmission shifting, a persistent check engine light, or even a complete no-start condition can often be traced back to a single, critical component: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the central computer of your vehicle, a failing PCM can make driving frustrating and unreliable. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects fuel economy, performance, and safety.
This listing is for a thoroughly tested, used OEM Powertrain Control Module, part number 09361735. Sourced from a salvaged vehicle, this unit offers a dependable and cost-effective alternative to expensive dealership parts. The most significant benefit we offer is our professional programming service. Before we ship it, we will flash the module with the latest GM software updates, specifically tailored to your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This means it arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you a trip to the dealer and the high cost of programming fees.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 1999 Pontiac Montana that came into the shop a few years back. The owner had replaced plugs, wires, and even the coil packs trying to chase down a random, intermittent misfire that never set a specific cylinder code. His scanner just showed a P0300 (Random/Multiple Misfire). After confirming fuel pressure and checking for vacuum leaks, we hooked up our scope to the PCM outputs. We found the injector driver for cylinder 3 was dropping out intermittently under load. The wiring was fine. The culprit was a failing driver inside the original PCM. We installed a pre-programmed module just like this one, and the van ran perfectly. It’s a classic example of how a faulty 1999 Silhouette PCM or its equivalent can create symptoms that seem unrelated.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
If the central computer is failing, your vehicle will let you know. Watch out for these common indicators that point to a faulty module:
- ✔ The check engine light is on, potentially with codes like P0601, P0602, P0605, or other communication errors.
- ✔ Your vehicle fails to start or stalls unexpectedly while driving.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ The engine runs rough, misfires, or hesitates during acceleration.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifts harshly, erratically, or at the wrong times.
- ✔ Other warning lights on the dash illuminate without a clear cause.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your replacement 1999 Silhouette PCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Since we’ve handled the programming, you just need to perform the physical swap.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure the system is fully discharged.
- Locate the PCM: On most compatible models like the Silhouette, Venture, and Montana, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side inside the air filter housing.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released before they can be pulled away. Avoid forcing them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you’ll need it for the new unit.
- Install the New Module: Mount your replacement PCM onto the bracket and securely fasten it.
- 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: Many of these GM vehicles will require a simple security relearn procedure to sync the new PCM with your key. This typically involves turning the key to ‘ON’ for 10 minutes, ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeating this cycle three times. Your vehicle should then start.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct fit for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number is 09361735 or that your vehicle is on this list. Providing your VIN at checkout ensures we program it correctly for your specific application.
- 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 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
Why do you need my Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
Your VIN is essential for us to program the PCM with the correct software for your vehicle’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures seamless communication between all modules and optimal performance, just like the original part from the factory.
Is this a new part?
No, this is a genuine, used OEM part that has been sourced from a salvaged vehicle. Each unit is inspected and tested to ensure it is fully functional before being programmed and shipped.
Will this part require additional programming at a dealership?
No. We handle all the necessary programming before shipment. Once you receive the module, it is ready for installation. You may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure at home, which requires no special tools.
What is the difference between a PCM, ECM, and ECU?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM (Engine Control Module) typically just controls engine functions. PCM (Powertrain Control Module) controls both the engine and the transmission. ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is a more generic term. For this application, it is a PCM.
How can I be sure this will fix my problem?
While this part corrects issues caused by a faulty PCM, proper diagnosis is key. If your vehicle exhibits the symptoms listed and you’ve ruled out other common causes (like bad sensors or wiring), there is a very high probability this programmed module is the solution you need.