Restore Your Van’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play BCM
If you’re dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2004-2007 Chevrolet Express 3500 Van, the Body Control Module (BCM) is often the culprit. As the central command for your van’s body electronics, a failing BCM can cause a cascade of problems that can take your work vehicle off the road. This replacement BCM, equivalent to GM part number 15194170, arrives expertly programmed to your van’s specific VIN. This means you can skip the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming—it’s ready to install right out of the box.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Work Van’s Ghost
I had a contractor bring his ’06 Express 3500 into the shop, convinced it was haunted. The dome lights would flicker, the radio would cut out, and the A/C blower was completely dead—a major problem on a hot day. He’d already replaced the battery and checked fuses with no luck. After connecting my scan tool, I saw a handful of communication codes pointing to the BCM. These work vans see thousands of door slams, constant HVAC adjustments, and high electrical loads, which puts immense stress on the BCM’s internal circuits. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module, and in less than 10 minutes, every single issue was resolved. It’s a common failure, but with a pre-programmed part, it’s one of the most satisfyingly simple fixes.
Is Your Express Van Showing These Electrical Faults?
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a replacement 2004-2007 Express 3500 BCM is the likely solution:
- ✔ HVAC system malfunctions, such as the blower motor not working or being stuck on one speed.
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The security system acting up, causing a no-start condition or the alarm to go off randomly.
- ✔ An airbag warning light on the dash, sometimes accompanied by Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1001.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights (headlights, brake lights) not functioning correctly.
- ✔ Unpredictable instrument cluster behavior or warning messages.
A Straightforward Guide to BCM Installation
Getting your van back to 100% is a simple DIY job that typically takes just a few minutes. For the Express and Savana vans, the BCM is located in the center of the dash. Our pre-programmed 2004-2007 Express 3500 BCM makes the process seamless.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the Module: On your Express Van, access the BCM by removing the necessary trim panels in the center dash area. It’s a black box with several large electrical connectors.
- Swap the Connectors: Carefully unclip and disconnect all wiring harnesses from the old BCM. Plug them securely into the corresponding ports on your new module.
- Secure and Reassemble: Mount the new BCM in place and reinstall any trim panels you removed.
- Power Up: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all functions—lights, windows, locks, and HVAC—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Note: In some cases, additional steps may be needed. If your airbag light remains on, a professional scan tool is required to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. Similarly, a Brake Pedal Position relearn might be necessary for certain models. And with no core charge, you don’t have to worry about sending the old part back.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part 15194170 and other interchangeable numbers, ensuring a perfect fit for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. While this page focuses on the 2004-2007 Express 3500 BCM, it also fits the following vehicles:
AVALANCHE 1500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
AVALANCHE 2500 02-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
ESCALADE & ESV & EXT 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
HUMMER H2 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
HUMMER H2 03 Body Control (BCM); ID 8116
SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), Crew Cab
SIERRA DENALI 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SILVERADO 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), crew cab
SILVERADO 1500/2500/3500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), crew cab
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
TAHOE 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
YUKON & YUKON XL 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
Do I need to take my van to the dealer for programming?
No. This Body Control Module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN number. It is a true plug-and-play solution, saving you time and money.
Where is the BCM located on a 2005 Express 3500?
On the 2004-2007 Express and Savana vans, the BCM is typically found behind the trim panels in the center dash area, near the radio and HVAC controls.
What if my airbag light stays on after I install the new BCM?
This can happen occasionally. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically synced with the airbag’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). A mechanic with a professional-grade scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to resolve this.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep or dispose of your old module without any extra fees or hassle.
Will this BCM fix a ‘Service 4WD’ message on my truck?
While the BCM communicates with many systems, a ‘Service 4WD’ message is more commonly related to the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM), position sensor, or actuator. It’s best to diagnose the specific codes before ordering parts.