Restore Full Electrical Control to Your GM Vehicle
If you’re dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2004-2007 Chevrolet Express 3500 or another compatible GM vehicle, a failing Body Control Module (BCM) is often the culprit. As the nerve center for your vehicle’s body electronics, the BCM orchestrates everything from your power windows and door locks to the HVAC system and interior lights. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. This OEM-quality replacement BCM, part number 15116066, is the reliable, plug-and-play solution you need. We pre-program it to your vehicle’s specific VIN, so it arrives ready for a quick installation without any need for a costly trip to the dealership.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Contractor’s Van
A customer brought in his 2006 Express 3500 work van last month with a list of bizarre symptoms. The radio would turn on and off by itself, the driver’s side window wouldn’t roll down, and worst of all, the battery would be dead every few mornings. He’d already replaced the battery and alternator. After checking for parasitic draws, we traced the issue to the BCM, which wasn’t letting certain circuits go to sleep. A faulty BCM can create these phantom power drains that are incredibly frustrating to pinpoint. Installing a VIN-programmed BCM like this one solved all his issues in under 10 minutes and got his van back on the job site the same day.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of BCM Failure?
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. Here are some of the most common issues I’ve seen in my 20+ years of diagnostics:
- ✔ The A/C or heater blower motor works intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ An airbag warning light is illuminated on the dash, often with a B1001 diagnostic trouble code.
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or exterior lights behave erratically or have stopped working completely.
- ✔ The vehicle’s security system acts up, causing a no-start condition or random alarm triggers.
- ✔ You’re chasing multiple, seemingly unrelated electrical DTCs that won’t clear.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
For most DIYers and professional mechanics, installing this 2004-2007 Express 3500 BCM is a quick job. In the Express and Savana vans, it’s typically located behind a panel in the center of the dash.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the Module: Find the old BCM. It’s a black box with several multi-pin electrical connectors.
- Swap the Part: Carefully unplug the wiring harnesses from the old module. Unbolt or unclip it from its mounting bracket and remove it. Install the new module in its place and securely reconnect all wiring harnesses.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Post-Install Procedures: In some cases, two additional steps are required. If your airbag light is on, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a capable scan tool. Some vehicles may also require a brake pedal position sensor recalibration to ensure proper brake light function.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 15116066 and is interchangeable with several others, including 10383536, 15136225, 15198116, and 15257043. It provides a guaranteed fit for a wide range of GM vehicles, including:
- Chevrolet: Avalanche 1500/2500 (02-06), Silverado 1500/2500/3500 (03-07 Classic), Suburban 1500/2500 (03-06), Tahoe (03-06), Express 1500/2500/3500 Van (04-07)
- GMC: Sierra 1500/2500/3500 (03-07 Classic), Yukon & Yukon XL (03-06), Savana 1500/2500/3500 Van (04-07)
- Cadillac: Escalade, ESV, EXT (03-06)
- Hummer: H2 (03-07)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this BCM need to be programmed by a dealer?
No. We pre-program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. It arrives ready for installation, saving you time and money.
What tools are needed for the installation?
Basic hand tools are usually all that’s required to access and replace the module. However, a professional-grade scan tool is necessary for the post-installation SDM key setup if your airbag light is on.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part without any hassle or need to return it.
Will this fix a B1001 airbag code?
A faulty BCM is a very common cause of a B1001 code. Replacing the module and then performing the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure with a scan tool should resolve the issue.
Where is the BCM located on a 2005 Express 3500?
On the 2004-2007 Express and Savana vans, the BCM is typically found behind an access panel in the center of the dashboard, often near the floor.