Are you chasing electrical gremlins in your 1998 Chevy S10, GMC Sonoma, or Blazer? If you’re dealing with flickering lights, a security system that has a mind of its own, or power accessories that work intermittently, you’ve likely met the frustrating reality of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central command for your truck’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of confusing issues. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect your vehicle’s security and safety.
This is the definitive, hassle-free solution. We offer a replacement BCM that arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. Just provide us with your VIN after purchase, and our technicians will flash the module with the latest GM software updates. This means you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership and the need for proprietary scan tools. You get a reliable part that’s ready for installation right out of the box, restoring the functions you depend on every day.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a ’98 Blazer that came into the shop with a classic BCM failure story. The owner was fed up. His interior lights would flicker, the radio would cut out randomly, and the security light would stay on, sometimes preventing the truck from starting. He’d already replaced the battery and checked grounds. Using a diagnostic tool, we saw communication loss codes with the BCM. Instead of a costly and time-consuming dealer visit, we installed one of our VIN-programmed modules. The swap took less than 30 minutes. Instantly, all the strange electrical issues were gone. It’s a common failure on these trucks, and having a pre-programmed solution is a game-changer for both shops and DIYers.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or dashboard lights flickering or not working correctly.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system light stays illuminated, potentially causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
- ✔ Wipers operating intermittently or not parking in the correct position.
- ✔ Communication loss codes (U-codes) when scanned with a diagnostic tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On most 1998 S10/S15/Sonoma/Blazer models, the BCM is located in the center of the dash, often behind the glove box or a lower dash panel. You may need to remove a few trim pieces for access.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- ✔ Final Steps: Reinstall any dash panels you removed and reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all functions like lights, locks, and windows.
Post-Installation Procedures: In some cases, additional steps may be required. If your airbag light is on, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. Additionally, a Brake Pedal Position relearn may be necessary for proper brake light and traction control operation. Always refer to a service manual for model-specific instructions.
Will This Fit My Truck?
This BCM is a direct-fit replacement for the following vehicles and part numbers. Please match your part number or vehicle to ensure compatibility.
- ✔ 1998 Chevrolet S10 / GMC S15/Sonoma: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 16268395
- ✔ 1998 Chevrolet Blazer S10 / GMC Jimmy S15: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 16268395, 9366803, or 16264870
- ✔ 1998 Oldsmobile Bravada: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/o extended build date
- ✔ 1998 Isuzu Hombre: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- ✔ Replaces Part Numbers: 09366803, 16264870, 16268395, 8093668030, 8162683950
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we receive this information, as we program the module specifically for your truck.
What does the Body Control Module (BCM) do?
The BCM is a computer that controls many of your vehicle’s non-engine related electronic features. This includes power windows, locks, interior lighting, the security system, wipers, and more. When it fails, these systems can behave erratically.
Do I need to return my old BCM?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module.
What if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This can happen occasionally. It means the new BCM needs to be synchronized with the airbag system’s computer (SDM). This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure, which must be done by a mechanic with a professional-grade diagnostic tool.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my problem?
This module will fix issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. While the symptoms listed are very common for BCM failure, we always recommend proper vehicle diagnosis by a qualified technician to confirm the BCM is the root cause before ordering.