Fix Your Van’s Electrical Gremlins for Good
If you rely on your 2004-2007 GMC Savana 3500 for work, you know that downtime is lost income. When the electronics start acting up—flickering lights, a dead HVAC blower, or a security system that won’t let you start the engine—the cause is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). Don’t let a faulty module sideline your van. This direct-fit, VIN-programmed BCM, part number 15194170, is the reliable, no-hassle solution to restore full functionality and get you back on the road, fast.
As the central command center for your van’s body electronics, the BCM orchestrates everything from the power windows and door locks to the windshield wipers and interior lighting. Over time, heat cycles, vibrations, and voltage irregularities can cause internal components on the circuit board to fail, leading to a host of frustrating and intermittent problems. Our replacement 2004-2007 Savana 3500 BCM is built to meet or exceed original equipment standards, ensuring a durable and dependable repair.
From the Service Bay: The Case of the Contractor’s Ghostly Savana
A local plumber brought in his ’06 Savana 3500 with a list of bizarre symptoms. The radio would turn on by itself, the dome light would stay on, and worst of all, the van would randomly refuse to start, flashing the security light. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the main grounds. After hooking up my scanner, I saw a handful of communication loss codes (U-codes) and a B1001 code for an SDM configuration error. In my 20+ years of experience, this pattern almost always points to one culprit: a failing BCM. Instead of hours of chasing wires, we swapped in a VIN-programmed module. The entire job took less than 10 minutes, all codes cleared, and the van was back in service that same afternoon. He avoided a costly trip to the dealer and, more importantly, got back to his customers without delay.
Is Your Work Van Showing These Electrical Faults?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power door locks or windows.
- ✔ HVAC blower motor or climate controls that function erratically or not at all.
- ✔ An active airbag warning light, often with a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) like B1001.
- ✔ Security light on the dash, leading to a no-crank or no-start condition.
- ✔ Headlights, taillights, or interior lights that flicker, stay on, or won’t turn on.
- ✔ Unpredictable windshield wiper operation.
Your 5-Minute Fix: Installing Your Savana BCM
This is a repair you can confidently do yourself. The key is our VIN programming service—we handle the complicated part, so you don’t have to. Your module arrives ready to install, no dealership visit required.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your van’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s electronic systems.
- Locate the Module: On the Savana and Express vans, the BCM is typically found in the center of the dashboard, often behind a lower access panel. It’s a black box with several multi-pin connectors.
- Swap the BCM: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs, so be sure to depress them before pulling. Unbolt or unclip the old module and set it aside. Mount the new module in its place.
- Connect and Power Up: Firmly plug the electrical connectors into your new BCM. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Checks: Start the van and test all functions: lights, locks, windows, wipers, and HVAC. In most cases, the job is done. If an airbag light appears, a post-install procedure with a scan tool may be needed (see FAQ).
By choosing this pre-programmed 2004-2007 Savana 3500 BCM, you’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a fast, effective, and permanent solution to the electrical headaches that plague these otherwise reliable workhorses.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct replacement for part number 15194170 and other interchangeable numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following models with the specified options:
GMC SAVANA 2500 VAN (2004-2007) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
GMC SAVANA 1500 VAN (2004-2007) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
CHEVROLET EXPRESS 3500 VAN (2004-2007) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
CHEVROLET EXPRESS 2500 VAN (2004-2007) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
CHEVROLET EXPRESS 1500 VAN (2004-2007) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
This BCM also fits a wide range of other 2002-2007 GM trucks and SUVs. Please verify your part number or contact us to confirm fitment.
Why is VIN programming so important?
VIN programming loads your van’s specific software and options into the BCM. Without it, the module won’t communicate correctly with other systems, leading to features not working or even a no-start condition. Our service ensures it’s truly plug-and-play, saving you a trip to the dealer.
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No. There is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module, which saves you the time and expense of return shipping.
What tools do I need for the installation?
For most Savana vans, you’ll only need basic hand tools like a socket set or a screwdriver to remove the dash trim panel covering the BCM. No special electronic tools are required for the physical installation.
My airbag light is on after installing the new BCM. What should I do?
This can happen occasionally. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically introduced to the airbag system’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). A professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This is a quick process for any competent repair shop.
Is this a brand-new part?
This is a high-quality, fully tested replacement part built to OEM specifications and backed by our one-year warranty. It provides a reliable and cost-effective alternative to expensive dealership parts.
Will this fix my van’s no-start problem?
If your no-start issue is caused by the security system being triggered by a faulty BCM (a very common failure), then yes, this part is the correct fix. It will restore proper communication and allow the engine to start.