As you probably guessed, I have a 2002 Suburban (see login name). It has the 5.3 V8 and recently lost first gear and threw a P0735 (first gear solenoid failure) code. The dealer, however, says that the problem is actually the powertrain control module (PCM) and they're probably right as it also seems to have lost overdrive--so now it's essentially a PowerGlide transmission (old 2-speed for youyoungsters). Anyway, I was also told that you can't just put another PCM in--it has to be reprogrammed to match the vehicle VIN. Is there any way possible to do this yourself?The new PCM is about $250 and labor/reprogramming is over $230. Ouch.I can get a good used PCM for $50...
Keith

 

I find it hard to believe its the pcm...but may be


no,you can't do it yourself...the new pcm must have theft andVIN info programmed into it

 

Keith, I just had the PCM replaced on my 04 crewcab silverado. Thankfully the dealer told me that it was covered by GM for eight years. That part alone cost $412.00, $100.00 towing,... That could have easily turned into a $1000.00 day.

Anyway, my truck just died on me while pulling a trailer out of the hay field. Boom dead! No warning or nothing, all guages read normal.

Check with the dealer about that 8 yr. GM warranty. Supposedly the good ol' govt. requires them to cover it.

 

its 6 yrs/...80,000 miles