GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Service of the powertrain control module (PCM) should normally consist of either replacement of the PCM or electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) programming. If the diagnostic procedures call for PCM replacement, inspect the PCM first to see if the PCM is the correct part. If the PCM is faulty, remove the PCM and install the new service PCM.

Notice: 

   • Turn the ignition OFF when installing or removing the control module connectors and disconnecting or reconnecting the power to the control module (battery cable, powertrain control module (PCM)/engine control module (ECM)/transaxle control module (TCM) pigtail, control module fuse, jumper cables, etc.) in order to prevent internal control module damage.
   • Control module damage may result when the metal case contacts battery voltage. DO NOT contact the control module metal case with battery voltage when servicing a control module, using battery booster cables, or when charging the vehicle battery.
   • In order to prevent any possible electrostatic discharge damage to the control module, do no touch the connector pins or the soldered components on the circuit board.
   • Remove any debris from around the control module connector surfaces before servicing the control module. Inspect the control module connector gaskets when diagnosing or replacing the control module. Ensure that the gaskets are installed correctly. The gaskets prevent contaminant intrusion into the control module.
   • The replacement control module must be programmed.

Important: It is necessary to record the remaining engine oil life. If the replacement module is not programed with the remaining engine oil life, the engine oil life will default to 100 percent. If the replacement module is not programmed with the remaining engine oil life, the engine oil will need to be changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi) from the last engine oil change.

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 1544730  Size: SH
  1. Using a scan tool, retrieve the percentage of remaining engine oil. Record the remaining engine oil life.
  2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .
  3. Remove the left diagonal brace. Refer to Front End Sheet Metal Diagonal Brace Replacement - Left Side .
  4. Remove the air cleaner assembly cover (1) and lift the PCM (2) from the air cleaner assembly (3).
  5. Disconnect the engine harness electrical connectors (4) from the PCM.
  6. Remove the PCM.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1544730  Size: SH
  1. Install the engine harness electrical connectors (4) to the PCM.
  2. Install the PCM (2) into the air cleaner assembly (3).
  3. Install the air cleaner assembly cover (1).
  4. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  5. Install the air cleaner assembly cover screws.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the screws to 4 N·m (35 lb in).

  7. Install the left diagonal brace. Refer to Front End Sheet Metal Diagonal Brace Replacement - Left Side .
  8. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection .
  9. If a NEW PCM was installed, program the PCM. Refer to Control Module References .