Restore Your Impala’s Brain and End Electrical Frustration
If your 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala is starting to act haunted—with flickering lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security system that randomly prevents you from starting the car—you’re not alone. These are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central nervous system for your vehicle’s electronics, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of baffling and annoying problems. In my 20+ years of diagnostics, I’ve seen BCM failures create some of the most confusing symptoms, often leading owners and even some shops down a rabbit hole of expensive, unnecessary repairs.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We take a reliable BCM, part number 20864768, and flash it with the latest official GM software, programmed specifically to your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means you get a module that is truly plug-and-play, eliminating the need for a costly trip to the dealership for programming. It’s the most direct and efficient way to get your car functioning correctly again.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Erratic Impala
A customer brought in their ’09 Impala with a laundry list of complaints: the radio would turn off, the dash lights would flicker, and sometimes the remote key fob wouldn’t work. They’d already replaced the battery and alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw multiple U-codes (U0140, U0155), indicating a loss of communication with the BCM. A quick wiggle test of the BCM connectors under the driver’s side dash confirmed it—the internal circuits were failing. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and every single electrical gremlin vanished. It’s a common failure point I’ve diagnosed hundreds of times on these GM platforms.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM is the likely culprit. A failing module can store communication codes like U0140, U0100, or various B-codes related to body electronics.
- ✔ Power windows, locks, or mirrors operate intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lights stay on or won’t turn on.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security light is on, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ The horn honks unexpectedly or doesn’t work.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights flicker without reason.
- ✔ Remote keyless entry is unresponsive.
- ✔ Communication errors with other modules on the vehicle’s network.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Replacing the BCM on your Impala is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The module is typically located on the left (driver’s) side of the dash. While this pre-programmed 2006-2013 Impala BCM simplifies the process, always follow safety protocols.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all modules have powered down completely.
- Locate the BCM: On most 2006-2013 Impalas, the BCM is found under the driver’s side dashboard, often attached to a bracket near the steering column or fuse panel area. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery & Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (without starting) and test functions like power locks, windows, and lights to confirm operation.
Post-Installation Checks
In some cases, your vehicle may require additional relearn procedures after the new 2006-2013 Impala BCM is installed. These are simple for any professional shop with a capable scan tool.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a procedure called “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” is needed to sync the modules. This is only required if the light is on.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control function, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary.
Disclaimer: Procedures can vary slightly by year and model. Always consult a factory service manual for your specific vehicle if you are unsure.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct replacement for part number 20864768 and a wide range of other GM part numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles (please verify the location noted in parentheses):
- ACADIA 07-12 (LH dash)
- AVALANCHE 1500 10 (under steering column)
- CAPRICE 11-13
- CAPTIVA SPORT 12 (center dash)
- 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)
- EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
- EXPRESS 2500/3500 VAN 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)
- SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
- SAVANA 2500/3500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
- SRX 07-09 (LH dash)
- STS 10 (center dash)
- SUBURBAN 1500 10 (under steering column)
- TAHOE 10 (under steering column)
- TORRENT 07-09 (center dash)
- TRAVERSE 09-12 (LH dash)
- VUE 08-10 (center dash)
- YUKON / XL 1500 10 (under steering column)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No. There is absolutely no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
Yes! We program the module to the VIN you provide during checkout. This ensures it communicates with your car’s existing systems without needing a trip to the dealer for programming.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship the module until we have this information to program it correctly for your vehicle.
What tools are required for installation?
Typically, you’ll only need basic hand tools like a socket set and a trim removal tool to access the BCM under the dashboard. No special electronic tools are needed for the physical installation.
What happens if my airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is uncommon, but if it happens, it means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag system (SDM). Any professional mechanic with a modern bi-directional scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes.