Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain and Get Back on the Road
Is your Oldsmobile Intrigue, or another compatible GM vehicle, suffering from frustrating issues like stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent Check Engine Light, or even a no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer that manages your engine’s performance, fuel delivery, and emissions. When it falters, your whole vehicle suffers. I’ve seen it countless times in my 20+ years in the shop—a perfectly good engine crippled by a faulty computer.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a quality, tested PCM and flash it with the latest GM-certified software specifically for your vehicle. All you have to do is provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) after purchase, and we handle the complex programming. This means you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership and avoid their hefty programming fees. This is the direct, reliable fix you’ve been looking for to restore your car’s original performance and dependability.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A 2002 Grand Am came into the bay on a tow truck. The owner said it would randomly refuse to start, but after sitting for a few hours, it would fire right up. No consistent Check Engine Light, but a scan tool showed intermittent U-codes, indicating a loss of communication between modules. We checked all the basics—battery, grounds, wiring harnesses—and everything looked solid. The random nature of the problem pointed to an internal failure in the PCM, likely a cracked solder joint that would separate when hot and reconnect when cool. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, performed the security relearn, and the car started perfectly every time, hot or cold. The customer was thrilled to have a reliable car again after two other shops couldn’t solve the mystery. This is why a quality, correctly programmed module is so critical.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty engine computer could be the culprit. A failing module can cause a wide range of symptoms that can be easily misdiagnosed.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with communication error codes (like U0100) or internal module failure codes (P0601, P0606).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Poor or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A significant, unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Stalling, rough idling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions inspection.
A Straightforward Guide to Your 2001-2002 Intrigue Powertrain Control Module Installation
Replacing the PCM on these GM vehicles is a job most DIYers can handle. The module is typically located in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment, often attached to the air filter box, or under the left side of the dash on some models like the Alero and Grand Am. Always verify the location on your specific vehicle.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent any accidental reconnection.
- Locate the PCM: Find the existing module in your vehicle. It’s a silver metal box with multiple large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unplug all wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. These connectors have locking tabs that need to be released before pulling. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely plug in all the electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: This is a crucial final step. Turn the key to the “ON” position (do not start) for 10-15 minutes. The security light should turn off. Turn the key off for 10 seconds, then the vehicle should start and run normally. This procedure syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 12202600, is a direct replacement for several original part numbers, including 12209614 and 09360210. It fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please confirm your model and options below:
Chevrolet: Impala (01-03, 3.4L), Lumina (01), Malibu (01-03), Monte Carlo (01-03, 3.4L), Venture (01-03)
Pontiac: Aztek (01-03), Grand Am (01-03, 3.4L), Grand Prix (01-03, 3.1L), Montana (01-02)
Buick: Century (01-02), Regal (00-02), Rendezvous (02-03)
Note: Some models require matching the ID number (e.g., ID 12209614). Our VIN programming ensures you receive the correct software for your specific vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is essential. It allows us to load the exact, factory-correct software for your car’s specific make, model, year, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and performance, just like a module from the dealer.
Is this part difficult to install?
Not at all for most people with basic tools. It’s a plug-and-play process. The main steps are disconnecting the battery, swapping the modules, and performing a simple security relearn procedure, which we detail in our installation guide.
Will this fix my car’s specific problem?
This module corrects issues directly caused by a faulty PCM. While it resolves a wide range of common problems like stalling, no-start, and false error codes, we always recommend a proper diagnosis to confirm the PCM is the root cause before ordering.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple, key-on/key-off sequence that syncs the new PCM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system. It typically involves turning the key to ‘ON’ for about 10 minutes until the security light goes out. It requires no special tools and is mandatory for the car to start.
Are there any other part numbers this is compatible with?
Yes, this module is a direct replacement for part numbers 12209614 and 09360210, in addition to 12202600. Our programming process ensures it works correctly for any vehicle that used one of these modules.