Tired of Unpredictable Electronics in Your Work Van?
As a mechanic with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans come into the shop with baffling electrical problems. The radio works one minute and is dead the next, the A/C blower quits on the hottest day, or worse, the security system prevents the van from starting, leaving you stranded. More often than not, the culprit is a failing Body Control Module (BCM). This isn’t just an inconvenience; for a work vehicle, it’s lost time and money. This is the central hub for your van’s body electronics, and when it fails, it creates chaos.
This pre-programmed Body Control Module, part number 15116066, is the definitive solution for your 2004-2007 Express 3500 Van. We flash it with your vehicle’s specific VIN before shipping, so it arrives ready for a true plug-and-play installation. You can bypass the expensive dealership visit and the hassle of scheduling a programming appointment. This module restores full, stable control over your lights, power windows, door locks, wipers, and climate control system, getting your reliable workhorse back on the road.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Contractor’s Van
A local electrician brought in his ’06 Express 3500, complaining of ‘ghosts in the machine.’ His dome lights would stay on, draining the battery overnight, and the power door locks worked intermittently. He’d already replaced the battery and checked fuses, but the problems persisted. A quick scan showed a slew of communication DTCs pointing to the BCM. After confirming power and grounds to the module were good, we knew the internal logic had failed. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM just like this one. The total time for diagnosis and installation was under 30 minutes. The van was back in service the same afternoon, and the owner was thrilled to avoid a multi-day stay at the dealership.
Is Your Express Van’s BCM Failing?
A faulty BCM can manifest in many ways, from annoying glitches to major functional failures. Here are the common symptoms I see in the shop:
- ✔ The HVAC blower motor works intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The airbag warning light is illuminated, often with a DTC like B1001 (Option Configuration Error).
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or interior/exterior lights behave erratically or fail completely.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system malfunctions, causing no-start conditions.
- ✔ You experience strange grounding issues or a cluster of seemingly unrelated electrical problems.
- ✔ Your scanner pulls multiple U-codes (communication codes) or B-codes (body codes).
A Straightforward Guide to BCM Installation
Replacing the BCM in your Express or Savana van is a job most DIYers can handle in minutes. For these vans, the BCM is typically located in the center of the dashboard. Follow these steps for a smooth installation of your 2004-2007 Express 3500 BCM.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On Express/Savana vans, access the BCM by removing the lower center dash trim panels. It’s a black box with several large electrical connectors.
- Swap the Part: Carefully disconnect the wiring harnesses from the old BCM. Unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket and remove it. Install the new module in its place and securely reconnect all wiring harnesses.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Verify Functionality: Start the vehicle and test all body functions: lights, locks, windows, wipers, and HVAC to ensure everything is working correctly.
Post-Installation Note: In some cases, particularly if the airbag light was on, a procedure like ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ may be needed using a professional scan tool to sync the airbag system. This is not always required but is a possibility.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. While perfect for the 2004-2007 Express 3500 Van, it also fits the following models. Please verify your specific options.
SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
AVALANCHE 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SILVERADO 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), specific cab/trans options
SILVERADO 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style, specific cab/trans options
SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), specific cab/trans options
SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style, specific cab/trans options
TAHOE 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
YUKON & YUKON XL 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESV, EXT 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
HUMMER H2 03-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
Interchangeable Part Numbers: 10383536, 15116066, 15136225, 15136877, 15137393, 15137394, 15137395, 15137396, 15198116, 15257043, 15257044, 15257045, 15257046, 10367690, 15064149, 15194170
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this programmed by a dealer?
No. We pre-program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. It arrives ready to install, saving you time and money.
What tools do I need for installation?
Basic hand tools are usually all that’s required to access the module, typically a socket set and some trim removal tools. The installation itself is plug-and-play.
My airbag light is on. Will this fix it?
If the airbag light is caused by a faulty BCM (like DTC B1001), this module will resolve the root cause. However, you may need a professional scan tool to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to clear the light after installation.
Is there a core charge?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part, so there’s no need to worry about return shipping or waiting for a refund.
How do I provide my VIN?
You can enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during the checkout process. This is essential for us to program the module correctly for your specific vehicle.