Restore Your Truck’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play Solution
Are you dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche? Flickering lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security system that randomly acts up? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these frustrating symptoms countless times. More often than not, the culprit is a failing Body Control Module (BCM). This isn’t just a simple fuse box; it’s the central command center for your truck’s body electronics, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose.
This isn’t a generic, off-the-shelf part. We provide a comprehensive Cloning Service. When you purchase this BCM, you provide us with your vehicle’s VIN. Our experts then flash the module with the latest, most stable GM software specific to your Avalanche’s configuration. This means it arrives at your door ready to install, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a reliable fix that restores factory functionality without the hassle.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Avalanche with a Ghost
A customer brought in a 2010 Avalanche 1500 with a truly bizarre issue. The radio would turn on by itself, the driver’s side power window wouldn’t work, but only on Tuesdays (I’m not kidding), and the dash would occasionally light up like a Christmas tree before going back to normal. They had already replaced the battery and checked all the grounds. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw a handful of U-codes (communication errors) pointing to a network problem. Instead of chasing wires for hours, I went straight for the BCM. A failing BCM can corrupt the data network, causing other modules to report errors. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM like this one, and every single phantom issue disappeared. It’s a perfect example of how a single component can be the root of widespread electrical chaos.
Is Your Avalanche Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights.
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry failing to operate correctly.
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain when the vehicle is off.
- ✔ Warning lights on the dashboard, such as the airbag or ABS light.
- ✔ Communication DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) like U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
- ✔ A complete no-start condition where the starter doesn’t engage.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow all modules to power down completely.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On the 2010 Avalanche, the BCM is typically located under the steering column, mounted to the left of the driver’s side dash. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the old BCM from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Securely reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Relearns: After installation, you may need to perform a couple of simple procedures. Please see the ‘Important Post-Installation Notes’ section below for details on the Airbag System Sync and Brake Pedal Position Relearn, which may be required.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While this module is delivered ready for your vehicle, some systems may require a handshake to recognize the new component. Depending on your specific model and options, the following may be necessary:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This syncs the airbag system with the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure correct brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be required.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 15299986 and several other interchangeable part numbers. It is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. Please confirm your vehicle is on this list and that the part number matches one of the ones listed below.
Interchangeable Part Numbers: 10382479, 15093910, 15276271, 15299986, 15819552, 15828601, 15837419, 15872388, 15872421, 15880684, 15921352, 15921353, 15948438, 15948439, 20815898, 20839063, 20864767, 20864768, 20921435, 20921436, 20935349, 22860591, 25826124, 25826125, 25847588, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming service work?
It’s simple. After you complete your purchase, you provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians use this information to load the correct GM factory software and vehicle-specific settings onto the BCM before it ships. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your truck’s other modules.
Do I need to send my old BCM to you?
No, this is not a repair service for your old part. We provide a replacement BCM that is programmed using your VIN. Your original module is always returned to you along with the programmed replacement unit. We do not keep the core.
Is this a difficult part for a DIYer to install?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable job. The BCM is usually accessible by removing a lower dash panel. The main challenge is working in a tight space. The key benefit is that our pre-programming service removes the most difficult step: the software setup.
What tools are required for the post-installation procedures?
The potential post-install procedures, like the Airbag System Sync, require a professional-grade bidirectional scan tool (like a Snap-on, Autel, or GM Tech 2). Many local repair shops can perform these relearns for a small fee if needed.
Will this fix my check engine light?
A BCM typically controls body functions, not engine performance. While a faulty BCM can cause a no-start condition, it’s less likely to be the source of a check engine light, which is usually related to the Engine Control Module (ECM) or powertrain sensors. However, it can solve communication error codes (U-codes).