Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your trusty 1999 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 running rough, failing to start, or throwing a persistent Check Engine light? As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times. Often, the culprit is a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the computer that serves as the brain of your engine and transmission. When it falters, everything from fuel economy to shift points can go haywire, leaving you stranded and frustrated. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that needs a reliable solution.
This replacement Powertrain Control Module, part number 16265035, is the definitive fix for a wide range of late 90s and early 2000s GM vehicles. What sets our service apart is that we take the guesswork and extra cost out of the equation. Before we ship your module, we flash it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically programmed to your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means no expensive trip to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready for a direct-fit, plug-and-play installation, getting you back on the road with confidence.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
I remember a 2000 GMC Sierra that came into the shop with a ghost of a problem. It would start perfectly for weeks, then suddenly refuse to crank. The owner had already replaced the battery, starter, and ignition switch. After hooking up my scan tool, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM. On these GM trucks, heat and vibration can cause microscopic cracks in the PCM’s internal solder joints over time. The module tested fine on the bench when cool, but would fail randomly when hot. Replacing the PCM with a properly programmed unit like this one solved the issue for good. It’s a classic failure I’ve diagnosed hundreds of times.
Is Your GM Truck Showing These Red Flags?
A failing PCM can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine computer needs attention. A faulty 1999 Suburban 1500 PCM can be the root cause of many frustrating issues.
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL) illumination
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to internal module failure, such as P0601, P0604, or P0606
- ✔ Vehicle fails to start or starts intermittently
- ✔ Poor engine performance, including rough idling, stalling, or hesitation
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM on these vehicles is a job most DIY enthusiasts can handle in their own driveway. Our VIN programming service makes it a simple component swap.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for any residual power to dissipate.
- Locate the Old PCM: On most trucks and SUVs like the Suburban, Tahoe, and pickups, the PCM is located in the engine bay, typically on the driver’s side fender well. On Express and Savana vans, it’s often in the LH rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. These connectors have locking tabs; be gentle to avoid breaking them.
- Remove the Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket. It’s usually held in place by a few small bolts.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely fasten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses firmly into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (If Necessary): In some cases, a security relearn procedure is required. This typically involves cycling the key and can be done without special tools. We can provide instructions for this simple process.
Verified Compatibility for Your GM Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16263494, 16265035, and 8162634940. It is guaranteed to fit a wide range of GM models. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below. Providing your VIN at checkout ensures we send the correctly programmed module for your specific application.
CHEVROLET & GMC VANS (Express/Savana 1500/2500/3500): 1999-2002
CHEVROLET & GMC SUVS (Tahoe/Yukon/Suburban/Escalade): 1999-2000
CHEVROLET & GMC S-SERIES (S10/Sonoma/Blazer/Jimmy/Envoy): 1998-2000
OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA: 1998-2000
ISUZU HOMBRE (4.3L): 1998-2000
CHEVROLET ASTRO & GMC SAFARI: 1999-2001
Note: Some 1998 models require build date option ZN4. Please check your service parts sticker or contact us with your VIN.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your 1999 Suburban 1500 PCM
Do I need to do any programming myself?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. We use your vehicle’s VIN to load the correct GM software and updates, so it’s ready to install right out of the box.
What information do you need from me?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. We use your vehicle’s VIN to load the correct GM software and updates, so it’s ready to install right out of the box.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. We use your vehicle’s VIN to load the correct GM software and updates, so it’s ready to install right out of the box.
Will this fix my check engine light?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. We use your vehicle’s VIN to load the correct GM software and updates, so it’s ready to install right out of the box.
What if I have the wrong part number?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. We use your vehicle’s VIN to load the correct GM software and updates, so it’s ready to install right out of the box.