If you’re dealing with the classic electrical gremlins in your 2002 GMC Sierra or another compatible GM vehicle, you know the frustration. Flickering lights, intermittent power windows, a security light that won’t turn off, or even a no-start condition can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your truck’s body electronics, when the BCM goes bad, it can cause a cascade of confusing and annoying problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect vehicle security and safety systems.
We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the repair. This replacement BCM, part number 19208537, is the definitive solution. The biggest challenge with BCM replacement has always been the expensive programming required after installation. We solve that for you. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash this module with the latest GM software specific to your truck. It arrives at your door ready to be installed, saving you hundreds in dealership programming fees and diagnostic time.
Is Your GM Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lights staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system light is illuminated, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing randomly.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Inaccurate gauge readings or complete gauge failure.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in his 2002 Silverado 2500 with a complaint that was driving him crazy: sometimes it would start, sometimes it wouldn’t. The security light was on. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the starter. In the shop, we noticed the dome light would flicker when you opened the door. These seemingly unrelated issues are classic signs of a BCM failure. The internal circuits corrode or fail over time, sending bad signals across the vehicle’s network. We installed one of our pre-programmed BCMs, and within an hour, the truck was running perfectly, with all electrical functions restored. He avoided a costly diagnostic run-around and a tow to the dealer.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Swap
Replacing the BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The key is knowing where to look. In most trucks (Silverado, Sierra), it’s located under the driver’s side dash, near the steering column. In vans and some SUVs (Astro, Safari, Blazer), it’s often behind the center dash panel.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electrical components.
- Locate the Module: Find the old BCM. It’s a plastic box with several large multi-pin electrical connectors. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all 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 BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Reconnect all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Final Steps: Follow the post-installation procedures below to ensure all systems, especially safety features, are working correctly.
Important Post-Installation Steps
After installing your new 2002 Sierra BCM, a couple of critical procedures are required to ensure full functionality and safety. This is standard for this type of repair and ensures the new module communicates correctly with other vehicle systems.
- Airbag System Reset: The airbag light will likely be on. You must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure using a bi-directional scan tool. This re-establishes the security handshake between the BCM and the airbag module (SDM).
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles may require a brake pedal position sensor relearn or recalibration. This ensures the BCM receives accurate input for brake light operation and stability control systems.
Note: If you are not equipped with a professional-grade diagnostic tool, a local repair shop can typically perform these relearn procedures for you quickly.
Will This Fit My Vehicle? Verified Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 15063578, 15081796, 15095334, 19208537, DKAK, and DPNU. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles:
- 2002-2003 Astro Van (Center Dash)
- 2002-2005 Blazer S10 / Jimmy S15 (Center Dash)
- 2002-2004 S10 / S15 / Sonoma Pickup (Center Dash)
- 2002-2005 Safari Van (Center Dash)
- 2002 Avalanche 1500 (4×2, Under Steering Column)
- 2002 Escalade (4×2, Under Steering Column)
- 2002 Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500 & Denali (Under Steering Column)
- 2002 Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500 (Under Steering Column)
- 2002 Suburban 1500, 2500 (4×2 for 1500, Under Steering Column)
- 2002 Tahoe (4×2, Under Steering Column)
- 2002 Yukon & Yukon XL 1500, 2500 (4×2 for 1500, Under Steering Column)
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does the BCM do?
The Body Control Module (BCM) is a computer that manages and controls your vehicle’s non-engine-related electronic functions. This includes power windows, locks, lights, wipers, the security system, and dashboard gauges. It’s the brain behind your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship your order until we receive the VIN, as we use it to load the correct GM software onto your module.
Is this a simple plug-and-play part?
Yes, because we program it to your VIN, the physical installation is plug-and-play. However, as noted above, you will need to perform a couple of electronic ‘relearn’ procedures with a proper scan tool for the airbag and possibly brake systems to function correctly. This is a necessary step for any BCM replacement on these vehicles.
Will this fix my ‘Security’ light issue?
In the vast majority of cases, yes. A faulty BCM is the most common cause of a persistent security light and a no-start condition on these GM trucks and vans. This pre-programmed BCM is designed to resolve that communication error.
Do I need to send my original BCM back?
No, there is no core charge or need to return your old module. You can dispose of it once the new part is installed and working correctly.