Restore Full Electrical Function to Your Workhorse Van
If you’re dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2004-2007 GMC Savana 3500 Van—like flickering lights, a dead instrument cluster, or power windows with a mind of their own—a failing Body Control Module (BCM) is the likely culprit. As the central command for your van’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can bring your operations to a halt. This replacement BCM, part number 15137395, is the definitive solution, arriving expertly programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for coding; it’s a true plug-and-play fix that gets your van back on the road and earning its keep.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a fleet manager bringing in a 2006 Savana 3500 that was a diagnostic nightmare. The driver reported the radio would cut out, the dome lights wouldn’t work, and sometimes the van wouldn’t start, but there were no consistent engine codes. After checking grounds and wiring harnesses, we connected a scope to the BCM’s communication lines. We saw erratic data packets dropping out intermittently. It was a classic internal BCM failure. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module like this one, and in less than 10 minutes, every single issue was resolved. For a commercial vehicle, that saved hundreds in diagnostic time and vehicle downtime.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Electrical Faults?
A failing BCM doesn’t always throw a check engine light. Instead, it creates a host of frustrating symptoms. Over my 20 years in the shop, these are the most common signs I’ve seen point directly to a bad 2004-2007 Savana 3500 Body Control Module.
- ✔ Unresponsive or intermittent power windows, door locks, and interior lighting.
- ✔ The security system acting up, leading to a no-start or crank-no-start condition.
- ✔ HVAC controls not working, or the blower motor functioning erratically.
- ✔ An airbag warning light that won’t turn off, often with a DTC like B1001 (Option Configuration Error).
- ✔ Strange behavior from the windshield wipers or exterior lights.
- ✔ A cluster of seemingly unrelated communication codes (U-codes) stored in various modules.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Getting your Savana’s electronics back in order is a simple job that most DIYers or any professional mechanic can complete quickly. The key is our VIN programming, which handles the complex part for you.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal on your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all modules have powered down completely.
- Locate the BCM: In the Savana and Express vans, the BCM is typically found in the center of the dashboard, often accessible by removing a lower dash panel.
- Swap the Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. Remove any mounting screws or clips holding it in place, then install the new module and reconnect the wiring harnesses securely.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all body functions: lights, locks, windows, wipers, and HVAC system.
- Post-Install Checks: In some cases, an airbag light may persist. This requires a professional scan tool to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. Similarly, a brake pedal position relearn may be needed.
Verified Fitment For These GM Vehicles
While this is the ideal 2004-2007 Savana 3500 Body Control Module, it is also a direct replacement for a wide range of GM trucks and vans that use part number 15137395 or other interchangeable numbers. Please verify your part number before ordering.
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
SILVERADO & SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 (Crew Cab) 03-07 (Classic)
TAHOE / YUKON / SUBURBAN / YUKON XL 03-06
AVALANCHE 1500/2500 03-06
ESCALADE / ESV / EXT 03-06
HUMMER H2 04-07
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a BCM do on a Savana 3500?
The Body Control Module, or BCM, acts as the central computer for your van’s non-engine related electronics. It controls functions like power windows, door locks, interior and exterior lights, the security system, wipers, and the HVAC climate control system.
Is this module truly plug-and-play?
Yes. We program it to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. This ensures it communicates correctly with your van’s other modules right out of the box, eliminating the need for dealership programming for most functions.
What if my airbag light is on after installation?
If the airbag light is illuminated, it means the new BCM needs to be synced with the airbag’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). This is a simple “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure that can be done with a bi-directional scan tool.
Do I need to return my old BCM?
No. There is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module without any hassle or extra fees.
How do I know this is the right part for my van?
The best way is to match the part number 15137395 (or an interchangeable number from the list) from your original BCM. You can also use our vehicle fitment guide or contact our expert support team with your VIN to confirm compatibility.