Restore Your Impala’s Brain and Banish Electrical Gremlins
Are you chasing frustrating electrical issues in your 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala? Flickering lights, a dead instrument cluster, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security system that won’t let you start the car are all classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of baffling problems. Stop throwing parts at the problem and get the definitive fix.
This is a direct-fit replacement Body Control Module, arriving at your door pre-programmed with the latest GM software updates. We take the guesswork and expensive dealership trips out of the equation. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and my team will flash the module specifically for your Impala. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your car’s other systems right out of the box, restoring the reliable performance you depend on.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Impala
A customer brought in their ’09 Impala last month with a list of complaints that seemed unrelated. The radio would randomly shut off, the driver’s side power lock was inoperative, and the ‘Service Theft System’ light would occasionally pop on, preventing the car from starting. They had already replaced the battery and checked fuses. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw multiple communication loss codes with the BCM. In my 20+ years of experience, these intermittent, multi-system electrical faults almost always point back to a failing BCM. The internal circuit board develops micro-fractures over time from heat cycles and vibration. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and every single issue was resolved instantly. It’s a common failure point on these platforms, but thankfully, it’s a straightforward fix.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of these symptoms, a faulty Body Control Module is the likely culprit. Replacing your 2006-2013 Impala BCM can resolve these issues:
- ✔ Erratic or non-working interior/exterior lights
- ✔ Power windows, locks, or mirrors not functioning correctly
- ✔ Instrument panel gauges behaving strangely or not working at all
- ✔ ‘Service Theft System’ or other security-related warnings
- ✔ Problems with the keyless entry or remote start systems
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain when the vehicle is off
- ✔ Communication errors with a professional scan tool (U-codes)
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
For the confident DIYer, replacing the BCM is a manageable job. The 2006-2013 Impala BCM is typically located on the left-hand (driver’s) side of the dashboard. Follow these general steps for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery and wait a few minutes before beginning work.
- Locate the Module: On the Impala, you’ll usually find the BCM mounted to the left of the steering column, often behind the lower dash panel. You may need to remove this 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 exact same position as the old one. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it securely.
- Post-Installation Procedures: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position and verify that your lights, windows, and locks are functioning. Please read the critical post-install notes below.
Important Final Steps After Installation
After replacing your BCM, a couple of critical relearn procedures are necessary to ensure full functionality and safety. This is standard for this type of repair.
- Airbag System Reset: The airbag warning light will likely be on. You must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure using a compatible bi-directional scan tool. This re-establishes communication between the new BCM and the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles require the Brake Pedal Position (BPP) sensor to be recalibrated. This ensures the brake lights and stability control systems function correctly. This is also done with a professional-grade scan tool.
Note: If you are not equipped with a tool to perform these functions, a local repair shop can complete these final steps for you quickly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a guaranteed fit for a wide range of GM vehicles. While this listing is focused on the Impala, it is also compatible with the models below. Always match your original part number to the list to ensure a perfect fit. This module 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.
- Acadia (2007-2012)
- Avalanche 1500 (2010)
- Caprice (2011-2013)
- Captiva Sport (2012)
- CTS (2008-2013)
- DTS (2006-2011)
- Enclave (2008-2012)
- Equinox (2007-2009)
- Escalade / ESV / EXT (2010)
- Express Van 1500/2500/3500 (2008-2012)
- G8 (2008-2009)
- Hummer H2 (2008-2009)
- Impala (2006-2013)
- Lucerne (2006-2011)
- Monte Carlo (2006-2007)
- Outlook (2007-2010)
- Savana Van 1500/2500/3500 (2008-2012)
- SRX (2007-2009)
- STS (2010)
- Suburban 1500 (2010)
- Tahoe (2010)
- Torrent (2007-2009)
- Traverse (2009-2012)
- Vue (2008-2010)
- Yukon / Yukon XL 1500 (2010)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this BCM programmed by a dealer?
No! That’s the best part. We program the module to your car’s specific VIN before we ship it. This saves you a trip to the dealer and the associated programming fees.
Where is the BCM located on a 2006-2013 Impala?
The BCM is typically found inside the cabin, on the driver’s side, attached to the left of the steering column behind the lower dash panel.
What happens if I don’t provide my VIN?
We cannot ship the module without your VIN. The programming is essential for the BCM to work with your car’s specific options and security system. We will contact you after your purchase to get this information.
Will this fix my ‘Service Theft System’ message?
In many cases, yes. The BCM is a core part of the Pass-Key III/Passlock anti-theft system. A failing BCM is a very common cause of this warning message and no-start conditions.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, it’s a very manageable job. The main challenge is accessing the module under the dash. The physical swap is simple, and since we pre-program it, you avoid the complex software part of the job. However, you will need a scan tool for the final relearn procedures.