End the Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Vehicle
Are you chasing down bizarre electrical issues in your 2006-2013 Chevy Impala? Problems like power windows with a mind of their own, flickering interior lights, a security light that won’t turn off, or even a no-start condition can often be traced back to one single component: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central hub for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can create a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect your vehicle’s security and daily usability.
This replacement Body Control Module is your direct, reliable solution. We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the equation. Before we ship the part, our technicians will program it with the latest GM software specifically matched to your vehicle’s VIN. This means it arrives ready for a straightforward installation, restoring the critical communication between your car’s electronic systems.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2011 Impala that rolled into my bay last month. The owner was at his wit’s end. The radio would randomly shut off, the dome light would stay on, and the remote key fob worked only half the time. He’d already replaced the battery and checked fuses, but the problems persisted. A quick scan with my diagnostic tool showed multiple ‘Lost Communication’ codes (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. After confirming power and ground at the module were good, the diagnosis was clear. We installed one of our VIN-programmed BCMs, and within an hour, every single one of his electrical gremlins was gone. It’s a common failure, and having a pre-programmed module is the most efficient fix for both pros and DIYers.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a faulty BCM is the most likely culprit. A failing module can often set communication codes like U0140, U0155, or other related DTCs.
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operate intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light is illuminated, potentially causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flicker, stay on, or don’t work correctly.
- ✔ The horn sounds randomly or doesn’t work when pressed.
- ✔ Dashboard gauges behave erratically or stop working.
- ✔ Remote keyless entry (fob) is unresponsive.
Your Straightforward Installation Path
Installing your new 2006-2013 Impala BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. While the exact location varies slightly by model, for the Impala, you’ll typically find it on the driver’s side, behind the dash panel.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before beginning work.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2006-2013 Impala, the BCM is located on the left (driver’s) side of the dash. You may need to remove the lower dash trim panel for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that must be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount the new, pre-programmed BCM in the same position as the old one. Securely reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearns (If Needed): Start the vehicle and check all functions. In some cases, you may need a professional scan tool to perform a ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn’ or an ‘Airbag System Sync’ as detailed below.
Post-Installation Procedures
Because this module is pre-programmed, most functions should work immediately. However, depending on your specific vehicle, a couple of final sync procedures may be required:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag light is on after installation, a scan tool procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is needed to sync the systems.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary.
Disclaimer: We strongly recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number against the list below. This module is guaranteed to fit the following models with the specified options:
AVALANCHE 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 (center dash), ID 20921435, 20921436, or 22860591
CTS 08-13 (LH/RH dash)
DTS 06-11 (RH center dash)
ENCLAVE 08-12 (LH dash)
EQUINOX 07-09 (center dash)
ESCALADE / ESV / EXT 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
EXPRESS/SAVANA VANS 08-12 (center dash)
G8 08-09 (center dash)
HUMMER H2 08-09 (LH firewall)
IMPALA 06-13 (LH dash)
LUCERNE 06-11 (right side dash)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 (LH steering column)
OUTLOOK 07-10 (center dash)
SRX 07-09 (LH dash)
STS 10 (center dash)
SUBURBAN 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
TAHOE 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
TORRENT 07-09 (center dash)
TRAVERSE 09-12 (LH dash)
VUE 08-10 (center dash)
YUKON / YUKON XL 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
Replaces Part Numbers: 10382479, 15093910, 15276271, 15299986, 15819552, 15828601, 15837419, 15872388, 15872421, 15880684, 15921352, 15921353, 15948438, 15948439, 20815898, 20839063, 20864767, 20864768, 20921435, 20921436, 20935349, 22860591, 25826124, 25826125, 25847588, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming service work?
After you complete your purchase, simply reply to your order confirmation email with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians will use this to load the correct, factory-updated software onto your module before it ships.
Is this BCM truly plug-and-play?
Because we pre-program it, it’s as close to plug-and-play as possible and avoids the need for dealer programming. However, as noted above, some vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure for the airbag or brake pedal position sensor, which requires a professional-grade scan tool.
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No. This purchase requires no core return. You can keep your old module, which can be helpful if you ever need to reference its original part number.
What if my airbag light turns on after I install it?
This is a known possibility. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag system’s computer (SDM). A repair shop with a capable scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.
Where is the BCM located on a 2008 Chevy Impala?
For the 2006-2013 Impala generation, the Body Control Module is located behind the dashboard on the driver’s side, near the steering column.