Are you tired of chasing electrical gremlins in your GM truck? One minute your power windows work, the next they don’t. The radio cuts out, the security light flashes, or the HVAC system has a mind of its own. These frustrating, intermittent issues often point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central command for your vehicle’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause widespread and unpredictable problems. Stop swapping relays and checking grounds endlessly. This is the definitive, plug-and-play solution you’ve been looking for.
This replacement Body Control Module, compatible with part number 15198116, arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. This crucial step eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a reliable part that restores full functionality to your lights, locks, windows, and security system right out of the box. It’s the perfect fix for a daily driver or a work truck that needs to be dependable.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 2005 Silverado 2500 that came into my shop with a laundry list of bizarre electrical complaints. The dash lights would flicker, the driver’s door lock wouldn’t respond, and the radio would randomly shut off. The owner had already replaced the battery and alternator. After checking the main power and ground circuits, my scan tool showed a slew of communication loss codes with the BCM. Instead of a costly diagnostic rabbit hole, we installed a VIN-programmed module. In under 10 minutes, every single issue was gone. It’s a textbook example of how a failing 2003-2006 Avalanche BCM can mimic a dozen other problems, and why a pre-programmed replacement is the most efficient repair.
Is Your GM Truck or SUV Showing These Symptoms?
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution:
- ✔ Inconsistent or non-working power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ HVAC controls are unresponsive, or the blower motor works intermittently.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system malfunctions, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ An airbag warning light is illuminated, sometimes with a DTC like B1001 (Option Configuration Error).
- ✔ Gauges on the instrument cluster behave erratically or stop working.
- ✔ Headlights, taillights, or turn signals fail to operate correctly.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing your BCM is a simple job that most DIYers can complete in minutes with basic tools. No complex wiring or special procedures are needed for the initial swap.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On most compatible trucks and SUVs (like the Silverado, Sierra, and Tahoe), the BCM is located under the driver’s side dashboard, near the steering column. In Express/Savana vans, it’s typically behind the center dash.
- Swap the Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have release tabs that need to be pressed. Remove the old module and install the new one in its place.
- Reconnect and Test: Securely plug the connectors into your new, pre-programmed BCM. Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all functions—lights, windows, locks, wipers, and HVAC—to confirm the repair.
Important Note: In some cases, a post-installation procedure like an ‘SDM Key Setup’ may be required with a professional scan tool if the airbag light remains on. See our FAQ for more details.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 15198116 and other interchangeable numbers (listed below). It is guaranteed to fit the following models:
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), AT, 4 speed (opt MT1), Crew Cab
SAVANA 2500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 03-05 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
ESCALADE ESV 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
HUMMER H2 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 03-05 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
ESCALADE 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), MT, Crew Cab
SIERRA DENALI 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SIERRA DENALI 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column)
AVALANCHE 2500 02-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
YUKON XL 1500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
ESCALADE EXT 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), AT, 4 speed (opt MT1), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), MT, Crew Cab
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), AT, 4 speed (opt MT1), crew cab
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), MT, crew cab
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
HUMMER H2 03 Body Control (BCM); ID 8116
SAVANA 3500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SUBURBAN 2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 03-05 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), AT, 4 speed (opt MT1), crew cab
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), AT, 4 speed (opt MT1), Crew Cab
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), MT, Crew Cab
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), MT, Crew Cab
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), AT, 4 speed (opt MT1), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 03-05 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), crew cab
YUKON XL 2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), MT, crew cab
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), AT, 4 speed (opt MT1), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), Crew Cab
TAHOE 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), AT, 4 speed (opt MT1), Crew Cab
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), MT, Crew Cab
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), MT, Crew Cab
YUKON 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SUBURBAN 1500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
Interchangeable Part Numbers: 10383536, 15116066, 15136225, 15136877, 15137393, 15137394, 15137395, 15137396, 15198116, 15257043, 15257044, 15257045, 15257046, 10367690, 15064149, 15194170
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is VIN programming so important for a BCM?
VIN programming loads your vehicle’s specific software and options—like power seat memory, specific lighting, or security features—onto the module. Without it, many features may not work. Our service saves you from paying dealer programming fees, which can often exceed the cost of the part itself.
Is this part difficult to install for a DIYer?
Not at all. The physical installation is very simple, typically requiring only basic hand tools to access the module under the dash. It involves unplugging the old unit and plugging in the new one. The entire process usually takes less than 15 minutes.
What if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This can happen occasionally. It means the new BCM needs to be synced with the airbag’s computer (SDM). A repair shop will need to perform a quick ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a professional scan tool to clear the light. This is a common step when replacing a BCM.
Do I need to return my old BCM? Is there a core charge?
No. We do not require a core return for this part. You can keep your old module without any core charge or hassle, simplifying the repair process for you.
Will this fix a no-start problem?
It can. The BCM is a critical part of the GM Passlock/Passkey anti-theft system. If the BCM fails, it can prevent the vehicle from starting. If your ‘Security’ light is on or flashing and the engine won’t crank or start, a faulty BCM is a very common cause. Our programmed 2003-2006 Avalanche BCM resolves this issue.