Restore Your Van’s Electrical System and Get Back to Work
Is your Chevrolet Express Van acting possessed? Flickering lights, a security system that randomly engages, power windows with a mind of their own, or strange warning messages on the dash? As a technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen these exact issues hundreds of times. The culprit is almost always a failing Body Control Module (BCM). This component is the central nervous system for your van’s electronics, and when it starts to go, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and unpredictable problems.
Don’t let electrical gremlins keep your work van off the road. This replacement BCM is the reliable, straightforward solution you need. We take the guesswork and high cost out of the equation by programming the module to your van’s specific VIN before we ship it. It arrives at your door loaded with the latest GM software, ready for a direct installation. This is the most efficient way to solve the problem and restore full functionality to your vehicle’s essential systems.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Haunted Work Van
A contractor brought in his ’11 Express 1500, complaining that his interior lights would stay on, draining the battery overnight, and the power locks would only work intermittently. He’d already replaced the battery twice. A quick scan showed a slew of communication fault codes (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of a costly and time-consuming dealer visit, we installed one of our pre-programmed modules. The entire job took less than an hour, and all the bizarre electrical issues vanished instantly. He was back on the job site the same day, saving him hundreds in diagnostic fees and lost work time. That’s the power of a direct-fit, correctly programmed part.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM is the likely cause. This 2008-2012 Express 1500 BCM is designed to correct these exact problems:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights that won’t turn on or off.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system engaging incorrectly, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Inaccurate or dead gauges on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ Warning lights for the airbag or ABS system appearing without a clear cause.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to network communication, such as U0100, U0140, or U0155.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
A DIY-Friendly Guide to Your BCM Swap
Installing your new BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. For the Express/Savana vans, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area. Always confirm the location for your specific model.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes to allow all systems to power down completely.
- Access the Module: Carefully remove the dash panels necessary to access the old BCM. This usually involves removing a few trim pieces and screws.
- Disconnect and Remove: Unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. Once disconnected, remove any mounting bolts or clips holding it in place and take out the old module.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock in place.
- Reassemble and Reconnect: Reinstall the dash panels you removed. Once everything is back together, reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Checks: Start your vehicle and test all body functions—lights, windows, locks, wipers, and horn—to ensure everything is working correctly. Address any post-install procedures as needed (see below).
Important Post-Installation Information
While this module is programmed for your VIN, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. This is normal. You may need a professional scan tool for the following:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed to sync the systems.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal sensor relearn may be required to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Procedures can vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified mechanic if you are unsure about any step.
Guaranteed Fitment for These GM Vehicles
This BCM, part number 25910474, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM cars, trucks, and SUVs. It replaces numerous original part numbers, ensuring broad compatibility. Please verify your vehicle is on this list:
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 1500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-12
G8 08-09
HUMMER H2 08-09
IMPALA 06-13
LUCERNE 06-11
MONTE CARLO 06-07
OUTLOOK 07-10
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 3500 VAN 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
This module also replaces 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, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming process work?
It’s simple. After you complete your purchase, you’ll need to send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our technicians will then use certified equipment to load the correct GM software and vehicle-specific calibration onto the BCM before shipping it to you.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, this is a very manageable repair. The biggest challenge is usually accessing the module behind the dash panels. Our step-by-step guide above provides a general overview of the process for your 2008-2012 Express 1500 BCM.
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No. There is absolutely no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module, which is helpful if you ever need to reference it.
What if my airbag light comes on after installation?
This is a known possibility. The new BCM needs to be electronically introduced to the airbag’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure with a bi-directional scan tool. Most professional repair shops can perform this service for you.
Will this fix my ‘Service Theft System’ message?
Yes, in many cases, a faulty BCM is the root cause of security system errors and no-start conditions related to the Pass-Key or Pass-Lock systems. This programmed module restores communication and resolves those conflicts.