Restore Your Saturn’s Brain and End Electrical Frustration
If your 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook is experiencing bizarre electrical issues like flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, or a security system that has a mind of its own, you’re likely dealing with a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect the function of critical systems. We offer a reliable, straightforward solution: a replacement BCM, programmed specifically for your vehicle’s VIN with the latest GM software updates.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Haunted SUV
A customer brought in a 2008 Saturn Outlook with a laundry list of complaints: the radio would turn on and off, the driver’s side window wouldn’t go down, and the anti-theft light would flash randomly, sometimes preventing the car from starting. They had already replaced the battery and checked the fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I found a slew of ‘Lost Communication with BCM’ codes (U0140). This is a classic symptom. In my 20+ years, I’ve seen this exact scenario hundreds of times on these GM platforms. The internal processors on the original BCM fail over time, causing these network-wide disruptions. Installing a properly programmed BCM with updated software resolved every single issue, making the vehicle reliable again.
Is Your Saturn Outlook Showing These Signs?
A failing BCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your BCM needs replacement:
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on or flashes, possibly causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Gauges on the instrument cluster behaving erratically or not working at all.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to lost communication, such as U0140, U0155, or U0164.
- ✔ Problems with the HVAC (heating and air conditioning) controls.
- ✔ False warnings on the driver information center (DIC).
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Replacing the BCM in your Outlook is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. The BCM is typically located in the center dash area. While specific access may vary slightly, the general process is as follows:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes before starting work.
- Access the Module: You will need to remove trim panels around the center console and/or lower dash to gain access to the BCM. Keep track of all screws and clips.
- Locate and Disconnect: Identify the Body Control Module. Carefully disconnect all electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that must be depressed to release them.
- Remove the Old BCM: Unbolt or unclip the old module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reassemble and Reconnect: Reinstall the trim panels you removed. Once everything is back together, reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Final Checks: Start the vehicle and test all functions: windows, locks, lights, radio, and HVAC to ensure proper operation. See the notes below regarding potential post-installation procedures.
Important Post-Installation Notes
This BCM comes programmed to your VIN, which handles the majority of the setup. However, on some vehicles, additional steps with a professional scan tool may be required to sync related systems:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag light is on after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is needed to sync the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 15948438 and a wide range of other GM part numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following models (please confirm location as noted):
- Saturn Outlook (2007-2010) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
- Acadia (2007-2012) – Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- Avalanche 1500 (2010) – Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
- Caprice (2011-2013) – Body Control (BCM)
- Captiva Sport (2012) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
- CTS (2008-2013) – Body Control (BCM); LH or RH dash
- DTS (2006-2011) – Body Control (BCM); (RH center dash)
- Enclave (2008-2012) – Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- Equinox (2007-2009) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
- Escalade, ESV, EXT (2010) – Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
- Express / Savana Vans (2008-2012) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
- G8 (2008-2009) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
- Hummer H2 (2008-2009) – Body Control (BCM); (LH firewall)
- Impala (2006-2013) – Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- Lucerne (2006-2011) – Body Control (BCM); (right side dash)
- Monte Carlo (2006-2007) – Body Control (BCM); (LH steering column)
- SRX (2007-2009) – Body Control (BCM); LH dash
- STS (2010) – Body Control (BCM); center dash
- Suburban 1500 (2010) – Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
- Tahoe / Yukon (2010) – Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
- Torrent (2007-2009) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
- Traverse (2009-2012) – Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- Vue (2008-2010) – Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
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.