End the Electrical Gremlins in Your Express Van
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all when it comes to baffling electrical problems. Your work van’s lights flicker randomly, the power locks have a mind of their own, or the security light prevents it from starting. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re issues that cost you time and money. The culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM), the central nervous system for your vehicle’s electronics. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct, reliable solution to restore order to your 2008-2012 Express 1500 BCM and get your van back to being a dependable workhorse.
We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair. Unlike a part from the salvage yard or even the dealership, this BCM arrives at your door pre-programmed to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means no expensive trips to the dealer for programming, no special subscription services, and a much simpler installation process. We handle the complex part so you can focus on the fix.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a call from a local delivery business. Their 2011 Express 1500 was a nightmare. The driver reported the dome lights wouldn’t turn off, draining the battery overnight, and the power windows worked intermittently. They had already replaced the battery and checked fuses, wasting valuable time. A quick scan showed a slew of communication errors (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. We sent them one of our VIN-programmed modules. The next day, I got a call back: ‘It’s fixed. Plugged it in, and everything just worked.’ That’s the reliability that keeps a business on the road.
Is Your Express Van Showing These Symptoms?
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways, often seeming unrelated. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your BCM is the likely cause:
- ✔ Erratic power windows, door locks, or interior/exterior lighting.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light is on, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like ABS or Airbag) illuminate for no reason.
- ✔ Communication Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), such as U0100, U0140, or other U-series codes, are present.
- ✔ The horn sounds unexpectedly or doesn’t work at all.
- ✔ Wipers operate incorrectly or won’t turn off.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Swap
For the 2008-2012 Express Van, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area, making it accessible for a DIY replacement. While every repair has its nuances, this guide provides a clear path forward.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait about 10 minutes to allow the systems to fully power down.
- Access the Module: You will need to remove the necessary dash trim panels around the center console/radio area to gain access to the BCM. It’s usually mounted to a bracket.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. These have locking tabs, so be gentle to avoid damage. Once disconnected, unbolt the old BCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM onto the bracket and securely plug in all the electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position (without starting) and test the functions: power windows, locks, lights, and wipers.
Important Post-Installation Note: In some cases, additional steps may be needed. If your airbag light is on, a professional scan tool is required to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. Similarly, some models may require a ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn.’ These are vehicle-specific and not a defect in the module.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct replacement for part number 20935349 and is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. We program it specifically for your VIN. Please confirm your vehicle is on this list. This module 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, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084.
This part fits models including, but not limited to:
- ✔ 2008-2012 EXPRESS 1500 VAN
- ✔ 2008-2012 SAVANA 1500 VAN
- ✔ 2008-2012 EXPRESS / SAVANA 2500 & 3500 VANS
- ✔ 2007-2012 ACADIA, ENCLAVE, TRAVERSE
- ✔ 2006-2013 IMPALA
- ✔ And many other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs as listed in the fitment data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this Body Control Module require programming?
No. We pre-program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. It arrives ready for installation, saving you a trip to the dealership. Simply provide your VIN at checkout.
Where is the BCM located on my 2009 Express Van?
On the 2008-2012 Express and Savana vans, the BCM is located behind the dashboard trim in the center of the vehicle, often near the radio or climate controls.
Is there a core charge? Do I need to send my old part 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 the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This can happen occasionally. It means the new BCM needs to be synced with the airbag system’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). A professional shop with a high-level scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to resolve this.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module will correct any issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. While the symptoms listed are common indicators, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the BCM is the root cause before ordering. A faulty BCM is a very common failure point for the electrical issues described.