Is Your Chevy Impala Suffering from Electrical Gremlins?
If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your 2006–2013 Impala—like flickering dash lights, power locks with a mind of their own, or a persistent “Service Theft System” warning—you’re not alone. These are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your car’s comfort and security features. When it starts to go, it can make driving a frustrating and unpredictable experience. Stop chasing symptoms and fix the root cause with a reliable, pre-programmed replacement.
The Direct Solution: A 2006-2013 Impala BCM Programmed for You
Forget expensive dealership visits and the hassle of programming. We provide a straightforward solution. This Body Control Module is professionally flashed with the latest GM software, specifically matched to your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. It arrives ready for installation, saving you time, money, and the headache of coordinating with a service center. This is the same high-quality part you’d get from a dealer, but without the extra steps and costs.
A Real-World Scenario from My Shop
Just last month, a 2011 Impala was brought in with a laundry list of complaints: the radio would cut out, the driver’s window wouldn’t respond, and the key fob worked intermittently. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked fuses. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I saw multiple communication loss codes pointing to a single source. The BCM was failing internally, causing a network-wide disruption. We swapped it with a VIN-programmed unit like this one, performed the necessary key relearn and system checks, and the car’s electronics were stable and fully functional again. It’s a common failure, but thankfully, a very direct fix.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM:
- ✔ Erratic or non-working power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or dashboard lights flickering or staying on.
- ✔ The security light is illuminated, or the car won’t start (no crank).
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
- ✔ Key fob functions (lock/unlock/trunk) are unreliable or dead.
- ✔ False warnings on the driver information center (DIC).
Simple Installation & Critical Final Steps
Physically replacing the BCM in an Impala is manageable for a DIYer with basic tools. It’s typically located on the left-hand (driver’s) side of the dashboard. However, to ensure full functionality and safety, a few post-installation procedures are required.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work.
- Locate and Replace: Find the old BCM under the driver’s side dash and carefully disconnect the wiring harnesses. Install the new module and reconnect everything securely.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will need to perform a security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times.
- Airbag System Check (Required): After replacement, the airbag warning light will be on. You must use a capable diagnostic scan tool to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ function to clear this light and ensure the system is active.
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor (If Applicable): Some vehicles require a brake pedal position sensor recalibration. This also requires a diagnostic tool and ensures your brake lights and stability control function correctly.
Note: If you are not comfortable with these final steps, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a professional mechanic to complete the installation safely.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we’ll handle the programming. This module is compatible with the following 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
- Q: How do I provide my VIN?
- A: After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we receive this information for programming.
- Q: Is this a plug-and-play part?
- A: It is plug-in ready and programmed, but it is not fully ‘play’ until the security relearn and other necessary resets (like for the airbag system) are completed with the proper procedures or tools.
- Q: Will this fix my no-start problem?
- A: If your no-start issue is caused by the anti-theft system being triggered by a faulty BCM, then yes, this part will resolve the problem once the security relearn is done.
- Q: Can I install this myself?
- A: Many of our customers do. The physical swap is straightforward. However, you must be prepared to perform the post-installation electronic procedures mentioned above for the vehicle to operate correctly and safely.