Restore Your Van’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play Solution
Is your 2008-2012 Savana 1500 Van plagued by baffling electrical issues? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all: power windows with a mind of their own, intermittent starting problems, and dashboard lights that flicker like a haunted house. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM), the central hub for your vehicle’s body electronics. A faulty BCM can disrupt everything from your interior lights and door locks to critical security and communication systems, making your reliable workhorse feel unpredictable.
Forget the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership. This replacement Body Control Module is the definitive fix for your Savana’s electrical woes. We take the hassle out of the repair by providing a comprehensive Cloning Service. Simply send us your original BCM, and we will transfer all the essential vehicle-specific data—including VIN, mileage, and key information—to this replacement unit. It arrives at your door fully programmed and ready for a straightforward installation, with no additional on-vehicle programming required. This gets you back on the road or to the next job site faster and with significant cost savings.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2011 Savana 2500 that came into my shop with a ‘no crank, no start’ condition that had stumped two other mechanics. The battery was good, the starter tested fine, and the ignition switch was sending a signal. The problem was intermittent, which made it a nightmare to trace. After connecting my scan tool, I noticed communication codes (U0140) with the BCM. Water intrusion from a leaky windshield seal had corroded a few pins on the BCM connector, causing internal damage. By replacing the BCM with a pre-programmed unit like this one, we had the van running perfectly in under an hour, saving the owner from what could have been days of costly diagnostic labor.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is exhibiting any of these symptoms, a failing BCM is the likely culprit. A professional diagnosis is always recommended, but these are strong indicators I’ve seen hundreds of times in the bay.
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or dashboard lights staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as U0140, U0155, or various B-codes.
- ✔ Wipers activating on their own or not responding to the switch.
- ✔ Inconsistent A/C compressor clutch engagement.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Installing your programmed BCM is a manageable job for a DIY enthusiast or a quick task for any professional. In the Savana and Express vans, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Access the Module: Carefully remove the necessary dash trim panels to gain access to the BCM. It’s often mounted to a bracket behind the radio or climate controls.
- Disconnect and Remove: Unplug all electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM onto the bracket and securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reassemble your dash panels, reconnect the negative battery terminal, and start the vehicle. Test all functions like lights, locks, windows, and wipers to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Notes
Our cloning service makes this a near plug-and-play repair, but some GM vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure to sync related systems. This is normal and expected.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed. This requires a compatible professional scan tool to sync the airbag module with the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position (BPP) Relearn: On some models, a BPP sensor relearn may be necessary to ensure correct brake light operation and to prevent issues with the traction control system.
- Disclaimer: Procedures can vary. Always consult a factory service manual for your specific vehicle if you are unsure.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This BCM is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and is compatible with the following 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.
It fits these makes and models, among others:
AVALANCHE 1500 10
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12
CTS 08-13
DTS 06-11
ENCLAVE 08-12
EQUINOX 07-09
ESCALADE 10
ESCALADE ESV 10
ESCALADE EXT 10
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-12
G8 08-09
HUMMER H2 08-09
IMPALA 06-13
LUCERNE 06-11
MONTE CARLO 06-07
OUTLOOK 07-10
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 3500 VAN 08-12
SRX 07-09
STS 10
SUBURBAN 1500 10
TAHOE 10
TORRENT 07-09
TRAVERSE 09-12
VUE 08-10
YUKON 10
YUKON XL 1500 10
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “Cloning Service”?
Cloning is the process where we transfer the exact software and vehicle-specific data (like VIN, security info, and mileage) from your original BCM to this replacement unit. This ensures the module is a perfect electronic match for your vehicle, eliminating the need for expensive dealership programming after installation.
Do I need to send you my old BCM?
Yes. For our cloning service to work, we need your original module to extract the necessary data. After the service is complete, we will ship both your original module and the newly programmed replacement back to you.
Will this fix my “Service Theft System” message?
In many cases, yes. The BCM is a key component of the vehicle’s immobilizer and security system. If the BCM has failed, it can trigger security warnings and prevent the engine from starting. A properly programmed replacement BCM often resolves these issues.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, it’s a very manageable job. The main challenge is typically accessing the module’s location within the dashboard. Following our guide and taking your time should lead to a successful installation.
What if I still have an airbag light on after installation?
This is a normal possibility on some GM vehicles. The BCM and the Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM, or airbag module) are linked for security. If the light is on, a simple ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure with a pro-level scan tool is required to re-establish this link and turn off the light.