Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck?
If you’re dealing with flickering lights, a dead instrument cluster, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security light that prevents your truck from starting, you’re not alone. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these exact issues countless times. The culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM), the central command center for your truck’s comfort and security features. This isn’t just an annoyance; a faulty BCM can leave you stranded. This replacement BCM, part number 15194170, is the definitive solution for your 2003-2007 Silverado 3500 BCM and other compatible GM vehicles.
We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. Each module is expertly programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it ships, ensuring it works correctly right out of the box. This means no expensive trips to the dealer for programming—a huge time and money saver for both professional mechanics and DIYers.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2006 Silverado 3500 tow rig that came into my shop. The owner was frustrated; his work truck would randomly refuse to start, the radio would cut out, and the HVAC blower was intermittent. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the main grounds. After hooking up my scanner, I saw a slew of communication codes pointing to the BCM. A quick voltage drop test confirmed the module was failing internally. We installed one of these pre-programmed units, and in under 10 minutes, every single issue was resolved. He was back on the road to his next job site without the worry of being stranded.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Bizarre electrical behavior: Wipers, lights, or radio turning on and off by themselves.
- ✔ Non-functional power accessories: Power windows, door locks, or mirrors not responding.
- ✔ HVAC problems: Blower motor not working or climate controls are inoperative.
- ✔ Security system issues: A persistent security light on the dash, or a no-crank, no-start condition.
- ✔ Airbag warning light: Often accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like B1001.
- ✔ Communication errors with other modules on the vehicle’s network.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Replacing the BCM is one of the easier electronic repairs you can do. Most people can complete it in less than 15 minutes with basic tools.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the BCM: On most Silverado and Sierra models, the BCM is located under the driver’s side dashboard, to the left of the steering column. It’s a black box with several large multi-pin connectors.
- Swap the Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have release tabs that need to be pressed. Unbolt or unclip the old module and remove it.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in the same location and securely plug in all the connectors. You’ll hear a click as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, wipers, and HVAC—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our VIN programming handles the critical setup, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. If your airbag light remains on, a technician will need to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a professional scan tool. In some cases, a Brake Pedal Position Relearn may also be needed. And the best part? There is absolutely no core charge. You can keep your old part without any hassle.
Will This Fit My Truck or SUV?
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and year below. This is a reliable fix for your 2003-2007 Silverado 3500 BCM and many others.
AVALANCHE 2500 02-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
ESCALADE & ESV & EXT 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
HUMMER H2 03-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
CHEVROLET EXPRESS & GMC SAVANA VANS 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SILVERADO & SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO & SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO & SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 03-05 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO & SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 06-07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO & SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 03-05 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), crew cab
SILVERADO & SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 06-07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), crew cab
SUBURBAN & YUKON XL 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
TAHOE & YUKON 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
Interchangeable Part Numbers: 10383536, 15116066, 15136225, 15136877, 15137393, 15137394, 15137395, 15137396, 15198116, 15257043, 15257044, 15257045, 15257046, 10367690, 15064149, 15194170
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Body Control Module (BCM) do?
The BCM is a computer in your vehicle that controls and monitors dozens of electronic body functions that are not related to the engine, such as power windows, interior/exterior lighting, door locks, the security system, and wipers.
Is this part really plug-and-play? Will I need to go to a dealership?
Yes, it is. We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. This means you can install it yourself and it will function correctly without requiring expensive dealer programming, saving you hundreds of dollars.
My airbag light is on. Will this fix it?
A faulty BCM can cause the airbag light to illuminate. While this new module will resolve the BCM-related fault (like DTC B1001), the airbag system (SDM) may need to be professionally re-synced to the new BCM to turn off the light after installation.
Do I need to return my old BCM? Is there a core charge?
No, there is absolutely no core charge or need to return your old part. The price you see is the final price.
What if I’m not sure the BCM is my problem?
The symptoms listed above are strong indicators of BCM failure in these GM trucks. If you’re uncertain, we recommend consulting a professional technician to perform a full diagnostic scan to confirm the BCM is the source of the fault before ordering.
Will this fix my 2007 Silverado with the new body style?
No. This module is for the ‘Classic’ body style for the 2007 model year, which has the creased door skin and looks like the 2006 models. It will not fit the new body style that was also introduced in 2007.