Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck?
As a technician with over two decades in the bay, I’ve seen it all. Your 2002 Chevy Avalanche or similar GM truck starts acting possessed: the power windows have a mind of their own, the security light flashes randomly, the radio won’t turn off, or worse, the truck won’t start at all. You’ve checked fuses and relays, but the problem persists. The culprit is often the Body Control Module (BCM), the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating, intermittent issues that are a nightmare to diagnose. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect your vehicle’s security and basic functions.
This is the definitive solution. We provide a high-quality replacement BCM that is professionally programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. We load the latest, most stable software updates from GM, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility. This eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you time and money. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we handle the rest, delivering a module that’s ready for installation right out of the box.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
A 2002 Silverado 1500 came into my shop with a complaint that stumped two other mechanics: it would intermittently refuse to crank. No security light, battery was perfect, starter was new. After hooking up my scan tool, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the BCM (U-codes). The BCM wasn’t properly sending the ‘OK to start’ signal to the PCM. On these GM trucks, corrosion on the BCM board or failing internal relays is a classic failure point. We swapped in a VIN-programmed BCM like this one, and the truck has started reliably ever since. It’s a textbook example of how a failing 2002 Avalanche BCM can mimic other, more expensive problems.
Is Your GM Truck or SUV Showing These Signs?
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on or flashes, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Radio or climate control issues, such as not turning on or off correctly.
- ✔ Inaccurate gauge readings on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U1000, U0140, or other U-codes.
- ✔ False door ajar warnings or dome lights staying on.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your new BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. While the exact location varies slightly by model, the process is generally similar.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes to allow all modules to power down completely.
- Locate the BCM: On most trucks (Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Avalanche), the BCM is located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, often near the steering column. On vans (Astro, Safari) and S-10 platform vehicles, it’s typically behind the center dash area.
- Remove Trim Panels: Carefully remove any plastic trim or panels necessary to access the BCM. These usually pop off or are held by a few screws.
- Disconnect and Remove: The BCM is held in a bracket and has several large multi-pin electrical connectors. Carefully press the release tabs on each connector and pull them straight out. Unclip or unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Place your new, pre-programmed BCM into the mounting bracket and securely plug in all electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reinstall any trim panels you removed. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all functions: windows, locks, lights, radio, etc.
Important Post-Installation Steps
Because this 2002 Avalanche BCM is pre-programmed, most vehicles will be ready to go. However, in some cases, additional sync procedures may be needed:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a bi-directional scan tool. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be required to ensure brake lights and traction control function correctly. This also requires a capable scan tool.
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual for procedures specific to your vehicle.
Verified Fitment for These GM Vehicles
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 15063578, 15081796, 15095334, 19208537, DKAK, and DPNU. It fits a wide range of vehicles, including:
- 2002 Avalanche 1500 (4×2)
- 2002-2005 Astro / Safari (GMC)
- 2002-2005 Blazer S10 / Jimmy S15
- 2002-2004 S10 / S15 / Sonoma
- 2002 Escalade (4×2)
- 2002 Silverado & Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Denali
- 2002 Suburban 1500 (4×2) & 2500
- 2002 Tahoe (4×2)
- 2002 Yukon & Yukon XL 1500 (4×2), Yukon XL 2500
Note: Please verify the part number on your original module or contact us with your VIN to confirm compatibility.
Do I need to program this BCM?
Do I need to program this BCM?
No. This is the biggest benefit of our service. We program the BCM to your vehicle’s VIN before we ship it. This saves you a costly and time-consuming trip to a dealership or repair shop for programming.
What information do you need from me?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot program and ship your module without it.
Is there a core charge for my old BCM?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your original module, which can be helpful if you ever need to reference it.
Will this fix my no-start problem?
If your no-start issue is caused by the factory anti-theft system (Passlock) being triggered by a faulty BCM, then yes, this programmed 2002 Avalanche BCM is the correct fix. It resolves the communication breakdown that prevents the vehicle from starting.
What if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is not uncommon. It simply means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag control module (SDM). A repair shop with a professional-grade scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.