Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck or Van?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all. A customer’s dash lights flicker randomly, the power windows have a mind of their own, or the security system prevents the engine from starting. These frustrating, intermittent issues often point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it starts to go, it can cause a cascade of confusing problems. Stop throwing parts at the problem and get the definitive solution.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a reliable BCM and pre-program it with the latest GM software updates, specifically matched to your vehicle’s VIN. This critical step ensures seamless communication between the BCM and your truck’s other systems, saving you a costly trip to the dealership for programming. You get a part that’s ready to work right out of the box.
A Technician’s Notebook: The 2005 Silverado Mystery
A 2005 Silverado 1500 came into my bay with a classic BCM failure story. The owner complained of the radio turning off, the dome light staying on, and the ‘Security’ light flashing intermittently. He’d already replaced the battery and checked fuses. My initial scan showed multiple communication loss codes. After checking the main power and ground connections to the BCM under the steering column—a common failure point due to corrosion or loose pins—I confirmed the module itself was faulty. We installed one of these VIN-programmed units, and within an hour, every single electrical gremlin was gone. The customer was thrilled to avoid a massive dealership bill and have his truck back to normal.
Is Your GM Truck or Van Showing These Signs?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Dash lights flickering, interior lights staying on, or headlights acting erratically.
- ✔ The security system light is on or flashing, sometimes causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ The radio or climate control display turns on and off randomly.
- ✔ False warnings on the driver information center (DIC), like ‘Door Ajar’.
- ✔ Communication error codes (U-codes) when scanned with a diagnostic tool.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
- Safety First: 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 Silverado and Sierra pickups, the BCM is located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column. On Express and Savana vans, it’s typically behind the center dash panel.
- Remove Connectors: Carefully unplug all electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Do not force them.
- Unbolt the Module: Remove the bolts or nuts securing the BCM to its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and secure it.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug all electrical connectors firmly into the new module. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Final Steps: Follow the post-installation procedures outlined below for your specific vehicle. This is a crucial step for full functionality.
Important Post-Installation Procedures
After installing your new Programmed GM BCM, a couple of final steps are required to sync the new module with your vehicle’s safety systems. This is standard procedure and ensures everything operates as the factory intended.
- Airbag System Reset: The airbag warning light will likely be on after replacement. A scan tool with the proper capabilities is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. 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. If you notice any issues with brake light operation or cruise control, this procedure may be necessary.
Note: If you are a DIYer without access to a high-level scan tool, many local independent shops can perform these final relearn procedures for a minimal fee.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 15167329, 15194169, 15747545, 15136224, 15116065, 15198115, 15136876, and 10367689. It is compatible with the following models:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500 (2003-2007 Classic, see specific options in data)
- GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500 (2003-2007 Classic, see specific options in data)
- Chevrolet Express 1500/2500/3500 Van (2003-2007)
- GMC Savana 1500/2500/3500 Van (2003-2007)
- Chevrolet SSR (2003-2006)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the BCM with the exact software and vehicle-specific options (like power windows, keyless entry, etc.) that your truck or van came with from the factory. This ensures a true plug-and-play installation without needing a trip to the dealer.
Is this difficult to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, the physical replacement is straightforward. The BCM is usually accessible under the dash. The most important part is the post-installation relearn procedures (for the airbag system), which may require a capable scan tool or a visit to a local mechanic.
Will this fix my ‘Security’ light issue?
In many cases, yes. The BCM is a key part of the Passlock/Passkey vehicle anti-theft system. A faulty BCM is a very common cause of a persistent security light and no-start problems on these GM vehicles.
What tools are required for installation?
You’ll typically only need basic hand tools, such as a socket set and a trim removal tool to access the module. The critical ‘tool’ is a diagnostic scanner capable of performing the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ function after the physical installation is complete.
Does this part replace all the listed part numbers?
Yes. This BCM is a fully compatible replacement for all the part numbers listed in blue in the original description, including 15167329, 15194169, 15116065, and others. We program it to function correctly for your specific vehicle.