Restore Your Impala’s Electrical Stability
Are you battling frustrating electrical issues in your 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala? Flickering interior lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security light that won’t turn off, or even a car that refuses to start can all point to a single culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing and unpredictable problems. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a matter of reliability and safety.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution. This is a direct-replacement 2006-2013 Impala Body Control Module that arrives at your door pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. By flashing the module with the latest GM software updates before shipping, we eliminate the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a part that’s ready to install, restoring the proper function of your vehicle’s essential features.
A Technician’s Notebook
A customer brought in their 2011 Impala last month with a truly baffling set of symptoms. The radio would turn on and off by itself, the driver’s side power window worked intermittently, and occasionally the car wouldn’t start, with only a click from the starter relay. They had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I noticed several communication error codes between various modules. In my 20+ years of experience, this pattern almost always points to the BCM. It acts as a network gateway, and when it fails, it disrupts communication across the vehicle. We installed one of our pre-programmed BCMs, and within an hour, every single issue was resolved. The customer was thrilled to have their reliable car back without a hefty dealership bill.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security system light stays on, preventing the engine from starting (anti-theft issue).
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights illuminate randomly or stay on.
- ✔ The horn honks unexpectedly or doesn’t work at all.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ Complete loss of power to multiple electronic accessories at once.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 2006-2013 Impala Body Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. For the Impala, the BCM is typically located on the left-hand side of the dash, near the steering column.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before beginning work.
- Locate the BCM: On most 2006-2013 Impalas, you will need to remove the lower dash panel beneath the steering wheel to access the module.
- 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 Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn Procedures: Follow the critical post-installation steps below to ensure full functionality and safety.
Critical Post-Installation Procedures
IMPORTANT: Replacing the BCM is not just a physical swap. To ensure your vehicle operates safely and all systems are correctly synced, the following steps are often required. Failure to perform these may result in warning lights or improper system operation.
- Airbag System Reset: The ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a compatible high-level diagnostic tool. This step is essential to clear the airbag warning light and ensure the safety system is active.
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles require the Brake Pedal Position (BPP) sensor to be recalibrated after a BCM replacement. This ensures the brake lights and stability control systems function correctly.
If you are not equipped with the tools or knowledge for these procedures, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a qualified professional mechanic.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and supersedes multiple part numbers, including 10382479, 15093910, 15819552, 20815898, 22860591, and many more. While this is a 2006-2013 Impala Body Control Module, it also fits the following models (please verify your specific part number or contact us with your VIN):
AVALANCHE 1500 10
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12
CTS 08-13
DTS 06-11
ENCLAVE 08-12
EQUINOX 07-09
ESCALADE 10
ESCALADE ESV 10
ESCALADE EXT 10
EXPRESS VANS 08-12
G8 08-09
HUMMER H2 08-09
IMPALA 06-13
LUCERNE 06-11
MONTE CARLO 06-07
OUTLOOK 07-10
SAVANA VANS 08-12
SRX 07-09
STS 10
SUBURBAN 1500 10
TAHOE 10
TORRENT 07-09
TRAVERSE 09-12
VUE 08-10
YUKON 10
YUKON XL 1500 10
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to provide my VIN?
Yes, absolutely. Providing your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. We use it to program the BCM with the correct software and vehicle-specific options, ensuring it works seamlessly with your car right out of the box.
What does the Body Control Module actually do?
The BCM is a computer that manages many of your vehicle’s non-engine related electronic systems. This includes power windows, locks, lights, the alarm system, wipers, and dashboard warning lights. It’s the brain behind your car’s creature comforts and security.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For someone with moderate mechanical skill, the physical replacement is fairly simple. However, the critical part is the post-installation procedures like the airbag system reset and brake sensor relearn, which require a professional-grade scan tool. If you don’t have access to one, we recommend having a professional shop complete the installation.
Will this fix my car’s no-start problem?
It can. A common BCM failure involves the vehicle’s anti-theft system (Pass-Key or Pass-Lock). The BCM may fail to recognize your key, preventing the engine from starting. If your security light is on and the car won’t start, a faulty BCM is a very likely cause.
What happens if I don’t do the airbag (SDM) relearn procedure?
If the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure is not performed, the airbag warning light will remain illuminated on your dashboard. More importantly, this indicates the Supplemental Restraint System (airbags) may not be functioning correctly and may not deploy in an accident.