Regain Control Over Your Truck’s Electronics
If you’re battling bizarre electrical problems in your GM truck—from flickering dash lights and dead power windows to a stubborn no-start condition—the Body Control Module (BCM) is often the culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a failing BCM can turn a reliable workhorse into a source of daily frustration. This replacement Body Control Module, part number 10383536, is the definitive solution for your 2003-2007 Sierra 3500 BCM and a wide range of other GM trucks and SUVs. We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the repair by programming it to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it ships. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your truck’s other systems right out of the box.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in his ’06 Silverado 2500 with a perplexing combo of issues: the radio would cut out, the driver’s side power lock was dead, and the airbag light was on. He’d already replaced the battery and checked fuses. After hooking up my scanner, I saw a B1001 DTC (Option Configuration Error) and several U-codes indicating loss of communication. This pointed directly to an internal BCM failure. Instead of a costly trip to the dealer, we installed one of our VIN-programmed modules. In under 10 minutes, the locks worked, the radio was stable, and after a quick SDM key sync, the airbag light was gone. It’s a common failure, and this is the most straightforward fix.
Is Your GM Truck Showing These Telltale Signs?
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs replacement. Over the years, I’ve found these are the most common symptoms tied to a failing 2003-2007 Sierra 3500 BCM.
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ HVAC blower motor or climate controls not working correctly.
- ✔ The security system acting up, causing a no-start or crank-no-start condition.
- ✔ An illuminated airbag light, often accompanied by Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1001.
- ✔ Erratic interior or exterior lights (headlights, dome lights, etc.).
- ✔ False warnings on the driver information center (DIC).
- ✔ Loss of communication codes (U-codes) when scanned with a diagnostic tool.
Your 5-Minute Path to a Fully Functional Truck
One of the biggest benefits of this module is its simple, DIY-friendly installation. No need to schedule a dealership visit or pay for programming. Just follow these steps.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal on your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work. This prevents shorts and helps reset the vehicle’s systems.
- Locate the BCM: On most GM trucks like the Sierra and Silverado, the BCM is located under the driver’s side dash, near the steering column. On Savana and Express vans, it’s typically behind the center dash panel.
- Swap the Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. Remove any retaining bolts or clips holding the old module in place, then install the new module and reconnect the connectors securely.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all the functions that were previously malfunctioning—windows, locks, HVAC, lights, etc.
- Final Checks: In some cases, an airbag light may remain on. This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure with a bi-directional scan tool to sync the new BCM with the airbag system. This is a simple procedure for any professional shop.
Verified Fitment For These GM Models
This module is a direct replacement for a wide array of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and year to ensure compatibility. This part is interchangeable with part numbers: 15116066, 15136225, 15136877, 15137393, 15137394, 15137395, 15137396, 15198116, 15257043, 15257044, 15257045, 15257046, 10367690, 15064149, 15194170.
- Chevrolet: Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, Express Van (2002-2007)
- GMC: Sierra 1500/2500/3500/Denali, Yukon/Yukon XL, Savana Van (2002-2007)
- Cadillac: Escalade, ESV, EXT (2003-2006)
- Hummer: H2 (2003-2007)
Our pre-programmed 2003-2007 Sierra 3500 BCM is the most reliable and cost-effective way to solve your truck’s electrical woes and restore its factory functionality. Backed by our expertise and a solid warranty, you can buy with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this BCM really plug-and-play?
Yes! We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. This means it’s ready for installation right out of the box, with no need for expensive dealership programming for most functions.
Why is my airbag light still on after installing the new BCM?
This is normal for some vehicles. The new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag system’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). A professional scan tool is used to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure, which syncs the components and turns off the light.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No. We do not require a core return for this part. You can keep your old module, which saves you the time and hassle of a core charge and return shipping.
Where is the BCM located on a 2005 GMC Sierra?
On a 2005 GMC Sierra, as with most GMT800 platform trucks, the Body Control Module is located under the driver-side dashboard, to the left of the steering column. It’s typically held in a plastic bracket.
Will this fix intermittent 4WD issues or ‘Service 4WD’ messages?
While the BCM communicates with many systems, 4WD issues are more commonly related to the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM), the encoder motor, or the dash switch. It’s best to diagnose 4WD problems separately, though a faulty BCM can sometimes cause communication errors that affect other modules.