Restore Your GM Truck or Van’s Electrical System
Are you tired of chasing electrical gremlins in your Silverado, Sierra, or Savana? Intermittent power window failures, flickering dashboard lights, a security system that has a mind of its own, or a frustrating no-start condition can all point to one culprit: 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 and annoying problems. In my 20+ years of diagnostics, I’ve seen how a bad BCM can make a perfectly good truck feel unreliable.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take the guesswork and the expensive trip to the dealership out of the equation. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, and our technicians will program this BCM with the latest GM-approved software specific to your truck or van. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you time, money, and headaches.
A Technician’s Notebook
A customer’s 2006 Silverado 2500 came into the shop last month with a classic case of BCM failure. The radio would turn on and off by itself, the power locks worked only sometimes, and the dome light would stay on, draining the battery. He had already replaced the battery and checked fuses with no luck. After a quick scan, we confirmed communication errors with the BCM. Installing a pre-programmed 2003-2007 GM BCM like this one solved every single issue in under an hour. It’s a common failure point, and a correctly programmed module is the only reliable fix.
Is Your Truck or Van Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Dashboard lights flickering, warning lights staying on, or gauges behaving strangely.
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry failing to work correctly.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lights staying on or not turning on at all.
- ✔ Intermittent no-start conditions where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Communication error codes with other vehicle modules.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Installing your new BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Follow these general steps to get your vehicle back in top shape.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before starting work.
- 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. For Express and Savana vans, it’s typically behind the center dash panel.
- Remove Trim Panels: Carefully remove any plastic trim or panels necessary to access the module. A simple trim removal tool can prevent scratches.
- Disconnect and Remove: Unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. Then, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and reconnect all the electrical connectors. Ensure they click securely into place.
- Reassemble and Reconnect: Reinstall the trim panels and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
CRITICAL POST-INSTALLATION STEPS
After installing your new 2003-2007 GM BCM, two procedures are often required to ensure full functionality and safety. These steps require a professional-grade scan tool.
- Airbag System Reset: To clear the airbag warning light, you must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This re-establishes communication between the BCM and the airbag system’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM).
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles may require a brake pedal position sensor relearn. This ensures the brake lights and stability control systems function correctly with the new module.
If you are not equipped to perform these procedures, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 15167329, 15194169, 15747545, 15136224, 15116065, 15198115, 15136876, and 10367689. It fits a wide range of GM trucks and vans, including:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500 (2003-2007 Classic)
- GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500 (2003-2007 Classic)
- Chevrolet Express 1500/2500/3500 Van (2003-2007)
- GMC Savana 1500/2500/3500 Van (2003-2007)
- Chevrolet SSR (2003-2006)
Please refer to the detailed fitment list in the product specifics to confirm compatibility with your exact model, cab type, and options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does the BCM do?
The Body Control Module (BCM) is a computer that manages and controls many of your vehicle’s non-engine-related electronic features. This includes power windows, locks, interior and exterior lighting, the security system, wipers, and dashboard warning lights.
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the BCM with the specific software and settings for your vehicle’s exact options package. This ensures all features work correctly right out of the box and prevents compatibility issues.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
The physical replacement is straightforward for most DIYers with basic tools. However, the post-installation procedures like the airbag system reset require a professional scan tool. If you don’t have one, you will need help from a mechanic to complete the job.
Will this fix my ‘Service 4WD’ light?
In many cases, yes. The BCM communicates with the transfer case control module. A faulty BCM can disrupt this communication and trigger a ‘Service 4WD’ message, even if the 4×4 system is mechanically sound. Replacing a bad BCM often resolves this issue.
What happens if I don’t do the post-installation procedures?
If you skip the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure, the airbag warning light will remain on, and the airbag system may not function correctly in an accident. Skipping the brake pedal relearn (if required) can affect brake light operation and stability control performance.