Tired of Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck or Van?
If your Silverado, Sierra, or Express van is acting possessed—with flickering lights, erratic power locks, a dead instrument cluster, or a security light that prevents it from starting—you’re likely dealing with a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the nerve center for your vehicle’s body electronics, when the BCM goes bad, it can create a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated problems. Don’t waste time and money chasing individual symptoms. This is the direct, reliable solution you need.
We solve the biggest headache of BCM replacement: programming. Forget towing your vehicle to a dealership and paying high labor fees. Simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during checkout, and our technicians will flash this module with the latest GM-certified software specific to your vehicle’s options. It arrives at your door ready for installation, making this a job you can confidently tackle in your own garage.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer’s 2006 Silverado 2500 came into the shop last month with a bizarre list of complaints. The radio would turn on and off by itself, the driver’s side power window worked intermittently, and the dome light would stay on, draining the battery overnight. The owner had already replaced the battery and the alternator with no success. A quick scan showed communication loss codes with multiple modules. This immediately pointed me to the BCM. After confirming power and ground at the module, we knew the internal logic had failed. We installed one of our pre-programmed BCMs, and within an hour, every single electrical issue was resolved. It’s a classic failure I’ve seen on hundreds of these GMT800 platform trucks.
Is Your Truck or Van Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors not working correctly or at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light is on, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ The horn honks unexpectedly or doesn’t work.
- ✔ Instrument panel gauges behaving erratically or going dark.
- ✔ False warnings appearing on the driver information center (DIC).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Follow these steps carefully for a successful installation.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge.
- 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 trim.
- Remove Trim Panels: Carefully remove any lower dash panels or trim required to access the module.
- Disconnect and Remove: The BCM is held in by clips or a few small bolts. Unplug the electrical connectors (they have locking tabs you’ll need to press) and remove the old module.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in place and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock in.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- CRITICAL – Post-Installation Procedures: After installation, two procedures are often required using a professional scan tool. 1) Airbag System: You must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to clear the airbag warning light. 2) Brakes: Some vehicles may require a ‘Brake Pedal Position Sensor Calibration’ to ensure proper brake light function and ABS performance. If you are not equipped to perform these steps, a local repair shop can complete them for you.
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 vehicles. Please confirm your model and options below:
- Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana 1500/2500/3500 Vans (2003-2007)
- Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500 Pickups (2003-2007 Classic Body Style)
- Chevrolet SSR (2003-2006)
Note: Compatibility can depend on specific options like transmission type and cab configuration. Our VIN programming ensures you receive the correct software for your exact build. The provided fitment list is for general reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to provide my VIN?
Yes, absolutely. The VIN is essential for us to load the correct software and vehicle options into the BCM. This step is what makes the module work with your truck or van right out of the box, without needing a trip to the dealer.
Will this fix my ‘Service 4WD’ message?
While a BCM can cause a variety of issues, a ‘Service 4WD’ message is more commonly related to the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM), the encoder motor, or the dash switch. It’s best to diagnose that specific system before replacing the BCM for that issue alone.
What tools are required for the post-installation procedures?
The airbag key setup and brake pedal calibration require a bi-directional professional scan tool, such as a GM Tech 2, Snap-on, or high-end Autel scanner. Standard OBD-II code readers cannot perform these functions.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
It is ‘plug and programmed’. The physical installation is plug-in, and the software is pre-loaded for your VIN. However, as noted, you will likely need to perform the post-installation relearn procedures for the airbag and brake systems to restore full, error-free functionality.
What happens if I don’t do the airbag (SDM) key setup?
If you skip the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure, the airbag warning light will remain illuminated on your dashboard, and more importantly, the supplemental restraint system (airbags) may not function correctly in the event of a collision.