Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or Van
Is your trusty Chevy, GMC, or Isuzu suddenly giving you headaches? A flickering Check Engine Light, unexplained stalling, harsh shifting, or terrible fuel economy are more than just annoyances—they’re classic signs that the brain of your engine, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), is failing. For over 20 years in the shop, I’ve seen how a faulty PCM can mimic a dozen other problems, leading to wasted time and money on unnecessary sensor replacements. This isn’t just a part; it’s the central command for your vehicle’s engine and transmission performance.
This replacement 1999-2000 Chevrolet 2500 PCM is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running smoothly again. We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the equation. Before we ship, we flash the module with the latest official GM software updates, programmed specifically to your vehicle’s VIN. This ensures seamless communication between all your vehicle’s systems, restoring the original factory performance and efficiency. It arrives at your door ready to install, saving you a costly trip to the dealer for programming.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can cause a wide range of frustrating issues. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a new module is likely the fix you need. Look out for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0604, or P0606, which point directly to an internal module fault.
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light illumination
- ✔ Engine stalling or randomly shutting off while driving
- ✔ Difficulty starting the engine or a complete no-start condition
- ✔ Poor acceleration and noticeable loss of power
- ✔ A significant drop in fuel economy
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing
- ✔ Inability for a scan tool to communicate with the PCM
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2000 Chevy Express van that came into my shop. The owner had already replaced the throttle position sensor, the mass airflow sensor, and two O2 sensors trying to chase down a persistent stalling issue and a P0171 (System Too Lean) code. His parts bill was already over $400. After hooking up my pro-level scanner, I noticed the live fuel trim data was completely erratic—jumping all over the place with no logical reason. This told me the sensors were likely doing their job, but the computer interpreting their signals was not. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM, and the van ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where the problem isn’t the components, but the computer controlling them. This highlights the importance of diagnosing the core issue before throwing parts at it.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 1999-2000 Chevrolet 2500 PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic hand tools. Since we program it beforehand, you won’t need any special scan tools for the initial setup. Just follow these steps carefully.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the Old PCM: On most of these trucks and vans, the PCM is located in the engine compartment, often on the driver’s side fender well or near the battery. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the exact location.
- Disconnect the Wiring: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. These connectors have locking tabs that may need to be squeezed or lifted to release. Never force them.
- Remove the Module: Unbolt the old PCM 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 the same location and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses into the new PCM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: In many cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a CASE learn or Passlock relearn) to allow the vehicle to start. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. Your vehicle’s service manual will have the exact procedure.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service number 16263494 and part number 218-11787. It is guaranteed to fit a wide range of General Motors trucks and vans. Please match your part number or contact us with your VIN to confirm compatibility. This part fits, but is not limited to, the following vehicles:
- ✔ 1999-2000 Chevrolet 2500 & 3500 Pickups (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1999-2000 GMC 2500 & 3500 Pickups (Gasoline)
- ✔ 1999-2002 Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana Vans (1500/2500/3500, Gasoline)
- ✔ 1999-2000 Chevrolet Tahoe & GMC Yukon (Classic Body Style)
- ✔ 1999-2000 Cadillac Escalade
- ✔ 1998-2000 Chevrolet S10, GMC Sonoma, Isuzu Hombre (4.3L V6)
- ✔ 1998-2000 Blazer, Jimmy, Bravada, Envoy (4.3L V6)
- ✔ 1999-2001 Chevrolet Astro & GMC Safari Vans
- ✔ 1999-2000 Silverado & Sierra 1500 (4.3L V6)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming work?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians use this number to access the official GM database and load the exact software calibration that your vehicle had when it left the factory, including all subsequent updates. This ensures perfect compatibility.
Do I need to do anything else after installation?
In most cases, you will need to perform a security relearn procedure, also known as a CASE (Crankshaft Angle Sensor Error) relearn. This is a simple process that syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft and ignition systems. The procedure is outlined in your owner’s or service manual and typically involves a few key cycles. No special tools are required.
Is this a used or repaired part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested component that is guaranteed to function correctly. We ensure its reliability and then program it with fresh, VIN-specific software, making it a plug-and-play solution.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
Yes, in many cases it will. The PCM controls both the engine and the transmission. If your hard or erratic shifting is caused by faulty electronic commands from the module, this part will resolve the issue by restoring proper communication and shift-point logic.
What if I have the wrong part number?
This module replaces several common GM part numbers, including 16263494, 16265035, and 8162634940. The best way to ensure compatibility is to provide us with your VIN. We will verify the fitment for you before programming and shipping.