Restore Full Functionality to Your 2008-2012 Express 1500 Van
If you’re dealing with baffling electrical issues in your Chevy Express—like power windows with a mind of their own, flickering dashboard lights, or a security system that randomly prevents the van from starting—you’re not alone. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these exact problems countless times. The culprit is almost always a failing Body Control Module (BCM). This module is the central command center for your van’s body electronics, and when it starts to go, it can create a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated symptoms.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We take a genuine GM Body Control Module and program it specifically to your van’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ever leaves our facility. This means it arrives loaded with the latest factory software, ready for installation. You get to skip the expensive trip to the dealership and the need for specialized programming tools, saving you both time and money. This is the most direct path to getting your reliable workhorse back on the road and running properly.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
I remember a local contractor who brought in his 2010 Express 1500. He’d already replaced the battery and the starter, but the van would still intermittently refuse to crank. No codes were stored, and everything would test fine—until it didn’t. After tracing the security and starter enable circuits, we found the BCM was intermittently failing to send the proper signal. It was a classic BCM failure that mimicked other, more common issues. Once we swapped in a VIN-programmed BCM, the problem was solved for good. It’s a reminder that for these complex electrical systems, the central controller is often the root cause.
Is Your Express Van Showing These Symptoms?
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs replacement:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ The horn honks randomly or doesn’t work at all.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like ABS or Airbag) illuminate for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Communication error codes, such as U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module), are present.
- ✔ Rapid battery drain while the vehicle is parked.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the BCM in your Express van is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. For the 2008-2012 Express 1500, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area. Follow these general steps for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge.
- Access the Module: You will need to remove trim panels around the center dash and radio to gain access to the BCM. Keep track of your screws and clips.
- Locate and Unplug: Identify the BCM. Carefully disconnect all electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that must be depressed to be removed. Do not force them.
- Swap the Module: Remove the mounting hardware holding the old BCM in place. Install your new, pre-programmed module and secure it with the same hardware.
- Reconnect and Reassemble: Plug all electrical connectors firmly back into the new BCM until they click. Reassemble your dashboard panels.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle to confirm that the primary functions are restored.
Important Post-Installation Note: In some cases, additional steps may be required. If your airbag light is on, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. A Brake Pedal Position relearn might also be necessary for proper brake light and traction control operation. Always consult a factory service manual for procedures specific to your vehicle.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 20864767 and is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure a perfect match. This module fits the following models:
ACADIA 07-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
AVALANCHE 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
CAPRICE 11-13 Body Control (BCM)
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
CTS 08-13 Body Control (BCM); LH dash
DTS 06-11 Body Control (BCM); (RH center dash)
ENCLAVE 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
EQUINOX 07-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
ESCALADE & ESV & EXT 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
EXPRESS 2500/3500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM)
G8 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
HUMMER H2 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (LH firewall)
IMPALA 06-13 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
LUCERNE 06-11 Body Control (BCM); (right side dash)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH steering column)
OUTLOOK 07-10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM)
SRX 07-09 Body Control (BCM); LH dash
STS 10 Body Control (BCM); center dash
SUBURBAN 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
TAHOE 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
TORRENT 07-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
TRAVERSE 09-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
VUE 08-10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
YUKON & YUKON XL 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
This module also replaces part numbers: 10382479, 15093910, 15276271, 15299986, 15819552, 15828601, 15837419, 15872388, 15872421, 15880684, 15921352, 15921353, 15948438, 15948439, 20815898, 20839063, 20864768, 20921435, 20921436, 20935349, 22860591, 25826124, 25826125, 25847588, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send you my old BCM?
No. There is absolutely no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module, which can be helpful for reference if needed.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for the module to work in your vehicle.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
For most vehicles, yes. Because we program it to your VIN, it will control the basic functions of your vehicle upon installation. However, as noted, some vehicles may require an airbag system sync or brake pedal position relearn, which requires a professional scan tool.
What if my part number is slightly different?
The list of part numbers we’ve provided are all interchangeable. As long as your original part number is on our list, this module will function correctly in your vehicle after we program it.
Will this fix my check engine light?
A BCM typically controls body functions, not engine performance. While it can cause communication codes (U-codes) that trigger a check engine light, it’s not usually the source of performance-related codes (P-codes). Always diagnose the specific codes before ordering.