Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or SUV
If you’re dealing with a frustrating check engine light, poor fuel mileage, or unpredictable engine behavior in your 1999 Chevrolet Suburban, the problem often points directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty PCM can cause a cascade of issues that are tough to diagnose. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution, arriving at your door fully programmed with the latest GM software updates for your specific vehicle. No dealership visits, no extra programming fees—just a reliable fix that gets you back on the road with confidence.
The PCM is the brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission. It controls everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shift points. When it starts to fail, the symptoms can be intermittent and confusing. Our process eliminates the guesswork. Simply provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout, and our experts will flash this module, ensuring it communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s systems right out of the box. This is the most dependable way to replace a faulty 1999 Suburban 1500 PCM and restore the smooth operation you expect.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a ’99 GMC Yukon with an intermittent stalling problem that no other shop could solve. It wouldn’t throw a consistent code, just random misfire codes after it died. After checking fuel pressure, spark, and sensors, everything looked fine. On a hunch, I tapped on the original PCM while the engine was running, and it immediately stalled. The internal circuit board had a microfracture. We replaced it with one of our pre-programmed units, and the problem was solved instantly. The customer saved hundreds on diagnostic time and avoided a costly trip to the dealer.
Is Your GM Truck or Van Showing These Signs?
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine computer needs attention. Common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) associated with this failure include P0601, P0604, and P0606.
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Engine stalling or randomly shutting off
- ✔ Harsh or erratic transmission shifting
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire
- ✔ Communication errors with scan tools
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing your 1999 Suburban 1500 PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Since this unit comes pre-programmed, the process is simple.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the Module: On most GMT400 platform trucks and SUVs like the ’99 Suburban, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the firewall or inner fender.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. There are typically multiple color-coded connectors; they only fit one way, so you can’t mix them up.
- Remove the Old PCM: Unbolt the module from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in place and securely reconnect all wiring harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock in.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle may need to run for a few minutes to complete an idle relearn procedure.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 16263494, 16265035, 8162634940, and 218-11787. Please verify your vehicle is on this list and that your original module carries one of these IDs for guaranteed compatibility.
CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP 00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 00-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 99-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 99-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
SAVANA 1500 VAN 99-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), ID 16263494
ASTRO 99-01 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), ID 16263494
GMC 3500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
S10/S15/SONOMA 98-00 Electronic Control Module; 4.3L, (RH front engine compartment)
ISUZU HOMBRE 98-00 Electronic Control Module; 4.3L (6 cylinder), (RH front engine compartment)
SAFARI (GMC) 99-01 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery), ID 16263494
GMC 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.0L or 5.7L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 98-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
TAHOE 99-00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline, Classic style (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
YUKON 99 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
ESCALADE 99-00 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment/under battery), ID 16263494
BRAVADA 98-00 Electronic Control Module; (6-262, 4.3L)
ENVOY 98-00 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; 6 cylinder (LH front under battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; 6 cylinder (LH front under battery)
SUBURBAN 1500 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
SUBURBAN 2500 99 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
CHEVROLET 1500 PICKUP 99 Electronic Control Module; 5.0L or 5.7L, (LH engine compartment), ID 16263494
CHEVROLET 3500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
GMC 2500 PICKUP 99-00 Electronic Control Module; gasoline (LH front engine compartment), ID 16263494
SAVANA 2500 VAN 99-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
SAVANA 3500 VAN 99-02 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline, ID 16263494
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to program this module?
No. This module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. It is a plug-and-play installation, with no extra dealer programming required.
What is a VIN and where do I find it?
The VIN is your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number. You can find it on your driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This 1999 Suburban 1500 PCM is designed to correct issues directly caused by a faulty module, such as internal processor errors (P0606), no-start conditions, and erratic behavior. While it solves many common problems, ensure you’ve ruled out other potential causes like bad sensors or wiring issues.
Is this part difficult to install for a DIYer?
Not at all. For most of the compatible vehicles, this is a straightforward unbolt-and-unplug job that takes less than 30 minutes with basic hand tools. Our installation guide above provides all the necessary steps.
What’s the difference between a PCM, ECM, and ECU?
The terms are often used interchangeably. PCM (Powertrain Control Module) typically controls both the engine and transmission. ECM (Engine Control Module) or ECU (Engine Control Unit) usually refers to a module that only controls engine functions. For these GM applications, this part serves as the PCM.