Is Your GM Truck or SUV Acting Possessed?
You get in your 2000 GMC Yukon, turn the key, and it just doesn’t feel right. Maybe the transmission is shifting hard or at the wrong times. Perhaps the check engine light is on with a confusing array of codes, or worse, it won’t start at all. In my two decades as a diagnostician, I’ve seen these exact issues hundreds of times on GM trucks and SUVs from this era. Before you start throwing parts at it, let’s talk about the brain of the operation: the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
The Role of the PCM in Your Vehicle
Think of the PCM, often called the ECM or engine computer, as the central command center for your engine and transmission. It takes in data from dozens of sensors—oxygen sensors, crank position, throttle position—and makes thousands of calculations per second to control fuel injection, ignition timing, and transmission shift points. When it’s working correctly, your Yukon, Silverado, or Tahoe runs smoothly and efficiently. But when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed.
Expert Pro Tip: Check the Basics First!
Before you condemn your PCM, I always tell my customers to do a simple but critical check. On these GM trucks, the PCM is located under the battery on the driver’s side. Over time, battery acid can leak and corrode the wiring harness and connectors leading to the module. Also, check the main engine ground straps. A poor ground can mimic a bad PCM, causing all sorts of bizarre electrical gremlins. A few minutes with a wire brush and some contact cleaner can sometimes save you a lot of headache and money. If those are clean and tight, and the symptoms persist, the PCM is the most likely culprit.
Common Symptoms of a Failing GM PCM (Part #09354896)
A failing PCM doesn’t always die suddenly. It often gives warning signs. If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s time to consider a replacement:
- ✔ Check Engine Light: You might see codes related to internal processor failure, memory errors, or communication loss with other modules (U-codes).
- ✔ Erratic Transmission Shifting: The PCM controls the 4L60E or 4L80E transmission. Failure can lead to harsh shifts, delayed engagement, or getting stuck in one gear (limp mode).
- ✔ No-Start or Intermittent Stalling: The computer may fail to command the fuel pump or ignition coils to fire, leading to a crank-no-start condition.
- ✔ Poor Performance & Fuel Economy: Incorrect fuel and timing calculations will rob your engine of power and make it burn more gas than necessary.
- ✔ Communication Issues: Your mechanic’s scan tool may not be able to communicate with the PCM, a definitive sign of a major internal fault.
The Solution: A Reliable, Programmed PCM
This isn’t just a part in a box; it’s a direct solution. This Powertrain Control Module, compatible with service number 09354896, is the answer to these frustrating problems. We take the guesswork and the expensive dealership visits out of the equation. Here’s how it works:
- You purchase the module.
- You provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Our technicians use your VIN to program the module with the latest, most stable GM-approved software for your specific vehicle. This ensures all factory drivability and emissions parameters are perfectly matched.
- We ship the ready-to-install module directly to you.
This process ensures that when you receive the part, it’s truly plug-and-play. In most cases, you will not need to perform any additional complicated security relearn procedures or pay a dealership for programming. You simply install it, and your vehicle is back to factory-spec operation.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 09354896, 9354896, and 19109040. It is confirmed to fit a wide range of popular GM models, including:
- ✔ 1999-2000 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 & Yukon / Yukon XL
- ✔ 1999-2000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 & Tahoe / Suburban
- ✔ 1999-2002 Chevrolet Camaro (5.7L)
- ✔ 1999-2002 Pontiac Firebird (5.7L)
- ✔ 1999-2000 Chevrolet Corvette
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your truck, SUV, or performance car off the road. Restore its performance and reliability with a professionally programmed PCM. Get your vehicle running right again.