Are you battling frustrating electrical problems in your 2003-2006 Cadillac Escalade ESV? When features like your power windows, door locks, or climate control start acting erratically, the culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of confusing issues. This replacement module, part number 15198116, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s functionality and peace of mind.
What sets our service apart is the included Cloning Service. Instead of shipping you a blank module that requires a trip to the dealership for expensive programming, we transfer the critical data from your original BCM directly to your new one. This ensures that all your vehicle’s specific options and security information are preserved, making the installation a simple plug-and-play process. You get a part that is perfectly matched to your Escalade’s VIN, ready to install right out of the box.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2005 Escalade ESV that came into the shop with a laundry list of bizarre symptoms. The radio would cut out, the driver’s side window wouldn’t go down, and the security light would flash randomly, sometimes preventing the truck from starting. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked fuses. After hooking up the scanner, we saw a dozen communication codes pointing in different directions. In my 20+ years of experience, this kind of electronic chaos almost always points to the BCM. We confirmed a voltage drop inside the original module. A replacement BCM with our cloning service had it fixed in under 10 minutes, resolving every single issue at once.
Diagnosing a Faulty BCM: What to Look For
A failing BCM can manifest in many ways. If your Escalade is experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your BCM needs attention:
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ Climate control (HVAC) is unresponsive, or the blower motor works sporadically.
- ✔ The security system light is on, or the vehicle won’t start (anti-theft active).
- ✔ An airbag warning light is illuminated, often with a DTC like B1001 (Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM).
- ✔ Wipers, radio, or other accessories behaving unpredictably.
- ✔ Poor grounding or communication errors between different electronic modules.
Your 5-Minute Installation Guide
Replacing the BCM is a straightforward job that most DIY enthusiasts can handle with basic tools. Here’s how to get it done:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On the Escalade ESV, the Body Control Module is typically found under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column.
- Remove the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Seat the cloned replacement BCM into the mounting bracket and securely plug in all the electrical connectors. You’ll hear a click as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all functions—windows, locks, lights, HVAC, etc.—to confirm the repair was successful.
Important Post-Installation Note: In some cases, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure may be needed with a professional scan tool if the airbag light appears. A brake pedal position relearn might also be required. Your original module will be returned to you with the replacement; we do not require a core.
Will This Fit My Truck?
This BCM is a guaranteed fit for the following vehicles, but also interchanges with a wide range of other GM models. It replaces part numbers 10383536, 15116066, 15136225, 15198116, and more.
AVALANCHE 1500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
AVALANCHE 2500 02-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
ESCALADE 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
ESCALADE EXT 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
HUMMER H2 03-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 03-07 (classic style) Crew Cab
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 03-07 (classic style) Crew Cab
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 03-07 (classic style) crew cab
SIERRA DENALI 03-07 (classic style)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 03-07 (classic style) Crew Cab
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 03-07 (classic style) Crew Cab
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 03-07 (classic style) crew cab
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
TAHOE 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
YUKON & YUKON XL 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
EXPRESS & SAVANA VANS 04-07 w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Cloning Service work?
After you place your order, you’ll receive instructions to send us your original BCM. Our technicians will use specialized equipment to extract the vehicle-specific data (related to your VIN, security, and options) and flash it onto the replacement module. This makes the new part a perfect digital copy of the original, ensuring a seamless, plug-and-play installation without needing a dealer.
Do I have to send my original BCM in?
Yes, for the cloning service to work, we need your original module to read the data from. We always return your original part along with the newly programmed replacement.
Is any additional programming needed after I install it?
No, our cloning service handles all the necessary programming. However, in some vehicles, if the airbag light comes on, a simple ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ relearn procedure may be required using a bi-directional scan tool. This syncs the BCM with the airbag system.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
Even if the module is non-communicative, in most cases, our technicians can still extract the necessary data directly from the board’s memory chips. Please contact us if you have concerns about the condition of your module.
What is the warranty on this part?
This Body Control Module comes with a one-year warranty, giving you confidence in the quality and reliability of your repair.