Are you battling frustrating and unpredictable electrical problems in your 1998 GM truck or SUV? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows and locks, a security system that has a mind of its own, or even a vehicle that refuses to start can all point to a single culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it fails, it can create a cascade of baffling issues. This replacement Body Control Module is the definitive solution, arriving pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN to restore full functionality and get you back on the road with confidence.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 1998 GMC Jimmy come into the shop that was driving the owner crazy. The battery would die every two days. He had replaced the battery twice and the alternator once, but the parasitic drain persisted. After hours of tracing circuits, we isolated the issue to the BCM. It wasn’t fully ‘going to sleep’ when the truck was off, slowly draining the battery overnight. A simple swap with a VIN-programmed BCM like this one solved the problem instantly. It’s a classic example of how a faulty BCM can masquerade as a charging system problem, costing owners time and money on unnecessary parts.
Is Your 1998 GM SUV or Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Erratic interior or exterior lighting behavior (lights staying on or not turning on).
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light is flashing, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Gauges on the instrument cluster behaving erratically or not working at all.
- ✔ The radio or climate control functions are inconsistent.
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain that leaves you with a dead battery.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes related to communication or body electronics.
The Plug-and-Play Solution: A Pre-Programmed 1998 Bravada Body Control Module
Don’t waste time and money at a dealership on expensive programming fees. We take the hassle out of the repair process. When you purchase this module, simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN. Our technicians will then flash the BCM with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM, ensuring it’s perfectly matched to your vehicle’s original configuration and options. This means that for most installations, the process is as simple as removing the old module and plugging in the new one. This is the most reliable way to ensure every electronic feature works exactly as it did from the factory.
This module is a direct replacement for the following part numbers: 09366803, 16264870, 16268395, 8093668030, and 8162683950. It is guaranteed to fit and function in the following vehicles:
- 1998 Blazer S10 / Jimmy S15 (center dash mount)
- 1998 Bravada (center dash mount, w/o extended build date)
- 1998 Isuzu Hombre (LH dash mount)
- 1998 S10 / S15 / Sonoma (center dash mount)
Important Post-Installation Information
While our programming makes installation straightforward, some vehicles may require a simple sync procedure after the new BCM is installed. This is a normal part of the vehicle’s security and safety systems communicating with a new component.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light illuminates after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag module and requires a professional scan tool. This is only necessary if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: In some cases, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be required to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
We believe in making your repair as easy as possible, which is why there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module without the hassle of shipping it back.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Body Control Module (BCM) do?
The BCM acts as the central computer for your vehicle’s body electronics. It controls non-engine related functions like power windows, locks, interior/exterior lights, the security system, wipers, and the instrument cluster.
Do I need to have this BCM programmed?
No. This BCM comes fully pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN before we ship it. This eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming and allows for a much simpler installation.
Where is the BCM located on my 1998 Bravada or S10/Blazer?
On most 1998 GM S-platform vehicles like the Bravada, Blazer, Jimmy, and S10, the BCM is located behind the dashboard, typically in the center dash area or to the left of the steering column.
What happens if I forget to provide my VIN?
We cannot ship your order without a VIN. Programming is essential for the module to work correctly with your vehicle. We will contact you after your purchase to remind you if the VIN is missing.
Will this fix my flashing ‘Security’ light and no-start problem?
Yes, a faulty BCM is one of the most common causes of a flashing security light and a no-start condition in these vehicles. Our VIN-programmed BCM is designed to resolve this issue by correctly communicating with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.