GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

Notice: In order to prevent internal damage to the PCM, the ignition must be OFF when disconnecting or reconnecting the PCM connector.

Service of the PCM should normally consist of either replacement of the PCM, EEPROM re-programming.

If the diagnostic procedures call for the PCM to be replaced, the PCM should be checked first to see if it is the correct part. DTC P0601 indicates the EEPROM programming has malfunctioned. When DTC P0601 is obtained, re-program the EEPROM.

Service of the PCM should normally consist of either replacement of the PCM or EEPROM programming. If the diagnostic procedures call for the PCM to be replaced, PCM should be checked first to see if it is the correct part. If it is, remove the faulty PCM and install the new service PCM.

Notice: Turn the ignition OFF when installing or removing the PCM connectors and disconnecting or reconnecting the power to the PCM (battery cable, PCM pigtail, PCM fuse, jumper cables, etc.) in order to prevent internal PCM damage.

THE SERVICE PCM EEPROM WILL NOT BE PROGRAMMED. DTC P0602 indicates the EEPROM is not programmed or has malfunctioned.

Removal Procedure

    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%. If the replacement module is not programmed with the remaining engine oil life, the engine oil will need to be changed at 5000 km (3,000 mi) from the last engine oil change.

  1. Using a scan tool, retrieve the percentage of remaining engine oil. Record the remaining engine oil life.
  2. Negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
  3. Engine coolant reservoir purge hose.
  4. Remove fuse block.
  5. PCM access cover.
  6. Connectors from the PCM.
  7. PCM from engine compartment.

Installation Procedure

  1. PCM in the engine compartment.
  2. Connectors to the PCM.
  3. PCM access cover.
  4. Install the fuse block.
  5. Engine coolant reservoir purge hose.
  6. Negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.

If a new PCM is being installed, program the EEPROM.

EEPROM Programming

  1. Set-up--Ensure that the following conditions have been met:
  2. • The battery is fully charged and a battery charger is disconnected.
    • The ignition is on.
    • The Techline equipment cable connection at the DLC is secure.
  3. Program the PCM using the latest software matching the vehicle. Refer to up-to-date Techline equipment users instructions.
  4. If the PCM fails to program, proceed as follows:
  5. •  Ensure that all PCM connections are OK.
    •  Check the Techline equipment for the latest software version.
    •  Attempt to program the PCM. If the PCM still cannot be programmed properly, replace the PCM. You must program the replacement PCM.

Functional Check

  1. Perform Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check .
  2. Start the engine and the engine run for one minute.
  3. Use the scan tool in order to scan for the DTCs.