Tired of Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Van?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can turn a reliable workhorse like the Savana 1500 into a source of constant frustration. One day the power windows work, the next they don’t. The security light flashes for no reason, or worse, the van won’t start at all. These aren’t random, unrelated problems; they often point directly to a faulty BCM, the central nervous system for your vehicle’s body electronics.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We take a genuine OEM-quality BCM and program it with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle’s VIN. This means you skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready to install, saving you time, money, and diagnostic headaches. Get your van’s essential features working reliably again.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
A customer brought in a 2011 Express van—the sister vehicle to the Savana—with an intermittent no-start condition that two other shops couldn’t solve. The battery was good, the starter was new, but every few days, it would just refuse to crank. After tracing the wiring, I noticed the security light was acting erratically during the no-start events. The scan tool showed a loss of communication with the BCM (U0140). The BCM wasn’t properly validating the key’s security chip, preventing the van from starting. A pre-programmed BCM like this one solved the problem permanently, without tying up a service bay for hours of programming.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
If you’re noticing these issues, your BCM is the likely culprit. A failing module can trigger various Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), including communication errors like U0140, U0155, or internal processor faults.
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Erratic interior or exterior lighting behavior.
- ✔ The security system light stays on or flashes, possibly causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ The radio or climate controls work sporadically or not at all.
- ✔ False warnings appearing on the instrument cluster (e.g., “Service StabiliTrak”).
- ✔ Problems with the remote keyless entry system.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your new 2008-2012 Savana 1500 BCM is a manageable task for a confident DIYer or a quick job for any professional mechanic. In most Savana and Express vans, the BCM is located in the center dash area.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Locate the BCM: On the Savana/Express, you’ll typically find the BCM behind the lower center dash panel, often near the driver’s side footwell. You may need to remove a few trim panels for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Most have a locking tab that needs to be depressed or lifted. Once disconnected, unbolt the old BCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical harnesses. 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 all body functions: windows, locks, lights, wipers, and radio.
- Perform Relearn Procedures (If Needed): Start the vehicle. If you see an airbag light or notice brake light issues, you may need to perform the post-installation procedures mentioned below with a compatible scan tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This BCM, part number 25847589, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and interchanges with numerous part numbers, ensuring broad compatibility. Please verify 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.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No, there is absolutely no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module.
Is this part really plug-and-play?
Yes! We program the module to the VIN you provide during checkout. This handles the main programming, allowing you to install it and restore function. Some vehicles may require minor, tool-assisted relearn procedures after installation.
What if my airbag light comes on after installation?
This is a known possibility. It means the new BCM needs to be synced with the airbag system’s SDM. A professional scan tool is required to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to resolve this.
Why is a Brake Pedal Position Relearn mentioned?
On certain models, the BCM needs to recalibrate its understanding of the brake pedal’s position to ensure accurate brake light operation and to keep the traction control and stability systems happy. This is a simple procedure done with a compatible scan tool.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot program and ship your 2008-2012 Savana 1500 BCM without it.
What if I’m not sure the BCM is my problem?
While the symptoms listed are strong indicators, professional diagnosis is always recommended. Common BCM-related trouble codes include U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module) and various B-series codes related to body electronics.