Fix Your Truck’s Electrical Gremlins for Good
If you’re dealing with a 2003-2007 Silverado 3500 that seems to have a mind of its own—with flickering lights, a dead HVAC system, or a security light that won’t turn off—you’ve likely met the common culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As a technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty BCM can cause some of the most frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues on these otherwise reliable GM trucks. It’s the central command center for your truck’s body electronics, and when it goes bad, it can create a cascade of problems.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We pre-program this module to your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This means you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a direct-fit, plug-and-play module that restores full functionality right out of the box. This is the definitive fix for your 2003-2007 Silverado 3500 BCM problems.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Intermittent No-Start
A customer brought in his ’05 Sierra 2500, a sister truck to the Silverado, with a ghost of a problem. Sometimes it would start, sometimes it wouldn’t. The security light would flash randomly, and the radio would occasionally cut out. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scanner, I saw a handful of ‘loss of communication’ codes with various modules, including the infamous BCM code B1001. Instead of chasing wires for hours, I went straight for the BCM. A quick swap with a known-good, programmed module fixed every single issue instantly. These BCMs often fail internally due to cold solder joints, causing intermittent connections that drive owners and mechanics crazy. This programmed module is the exact solution I used.
Is Your Silverado Showing These Electrical Gremlins?
A failing BCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs replacement:
- ✔ The HVAC blower motor works intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ Your power windows, door locks, or interior lights are acting erratically.
- ✔ The airbag warning light is illuminated, often with a DTC like B1001 (Option Content Mismatch).
- ✔ The security system prevents the truck from starting or the security light stays on.
- ✔ You’re experiencing strange grounding issues or a cluster of unrelated electrical problems.
- ✔ The radio or other accessories turn on and off by themselves.
A Straightforward Guide to BCM Installation
One of the best parts about this solution is the simple installation. You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to get this done in your own driveway in about 5-10 minutes.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery before starting any electrical work. This prevents shorts and helps reset the vehicle’s systems.
- Locate the BCM: On most Silverado and Sierra trucks, the BCM is located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column. It’s a black box with several large multi-pin connectors.
- Remove the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that you’ll need to depress. Once unplugged, the module itself is typically held in by simple clips or a couple of small bolts. Remove it from its bracket.
- Install the New Module: Seat your new, pre-programmed 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 negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all the functions: lights, wipers, locks, windows, and HVAC to ensure everything is working correctly.
Post-Installation Note: In some cases, particularly if the airbag light was on previously, a professional scan tool may be needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to sync the airbag system. This is a simple procedure for any qualified shop. Additionally, a Brake Pedal Position relearn may be required on certain models. And the best part? There is no core charge, so you don’t have to worry about sending the old part back.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Truck or Van
This module is a direct replacement for part number 15136877 and other interchangeable numbers, ensuring broad compatibility. It is designed to work with the following vehicles and options:
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)
This module also interchanges with the following part numbers: 10383536, 15116066, 15136225, 15137393, 15137394, 15137395, 15137396, 15198116, 15257043, 15257044, 15257045, 15257046, 10367690, 15064149, 15194170.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This module comes fully pre-programmed to the VIN you provide at checkout. It is a plug-and-play solution that requires no additional programming from a dealership.
What tools do I need for installation?
Typically, you’ll only need a basic socket set or a screwdriver to remove any panels or bolts holding the old BCM in place. The entire process usually takes less than 15 minutes.
Why is my airbag light still on after installing the new BCM?
If the airbag light remains on, it means the BCM needs to be synchronized with the airbag’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure, which can be done by a mechanic with a professional-grade scan tool.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep or dispose of your old module without the hassle of returning it.
Will this fix a no-start condition related to the security system?
Yes, in many cases. A faulty BCM is a very common cause of security system malfunctions (like Passlock issues) that prevent the vehicle from starting. Replacing it with this programmed module often resolves these problems.