Restore Your Van’s Electrical Functions and Reliability
Are you battling bizarre electrical issues in your 2008-2012 GMC Savana 1500? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security system with a mind of its own, or even a frustrating no-start condition can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central command center for your vehicle’s electronics, when the BCM falters, it can create a cascade of confusing and disruptive problems. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a matter of reliability and safety for your workhorse van.
This replacement BCM is the definitive solution. We take the guesswork and high costs out of the equation by programming the module specifically to your vehicle’s VIN before it ever leaves our facility. This means it arrives at your door with the latest GM software updates already installed, ready for a straightforward installation. You get to bypass the expensive programming fees and scheduling hassles at the dealership, getting your van back in service faster.
Is Your Van Exhibiting These Electrical Gremlins?
A failing BCM often sends out distress signals. Over my 20 years in diagnostics, I’ve seen these modules cause some of the most perplexing issues. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM is the likely cause:
- ✔ Power windows, locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on.
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry failing to operate correctly.
- ✔ Instrument cluster gauges behaving erratically or going dark.
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain that leaves you stranded.
- ✔ Communication error codes, such as U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module), stored in the system.
- ✔ A vehicle that cranks but refuses to start due to security system lock-out.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 2011 Savana work van that came into the shop with a complaint that made the owner want to pull his hair out. Every other morning, the battery would be dead. He’d replaced the battery twice and the alternator once. The lights would sometimes flicker while driving, and the radio would cut out. We checked for parasitic draws and found a significant one, but it was intermittent. After tracing the circuits, we found the BCM was failing to put several accessory networks to sleep. It was essentially keeping parts of the van ‘awake’ all night, draining the battery. Installing a VIN-programmed Savana 1500 Body Control Module resolved all the issues in one shot, saving the owner from throwing more parts at the problem.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the BCM in your Savana is a manageable job for a DIYer. Our pre-programming service eliminates the most difficult step. Always consult your vehicle’s service manual for specifics.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes for the systems to discharge.
- Locate the BCM: In most Savana and Express vans, the BCM is located in the center dash area. You may need to remove a few trim panels to gain access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location 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 and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, wipers, etc.—to ensure proper operation.
Important Post-Installation Steps
While our programming handles the heavy lifting, some GM vehicles require a final handshake between modules after installation. Be aware of the following potential procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is illuminated after the swap, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be required to ensure your brake lights and traction control system function correctly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 20864767 and a wide range of other GM part numbers, ensuring broad compatibility. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below. This part fits these makes and models with these options:
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), ID 20921435, 20921436, 22860591
CTS 08 Body Control (BCM); RH 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 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898, 25892622
ESCALADE ESV 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898, 25892622
ESCALADE EXT 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 4.8L, 6.0L, 6.6L
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 11-12 Body Control (BCM)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 4.8L, 6.0L, 6.6L
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 11-12 Body Control (BCM)
G8 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
HUMMER H2 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (LH firewall)
IMPALA 06-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
IMPALA 13 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), ID 22820315
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 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 4.8L, 6.0L, 6.6L
SAVANA 2500 VAN 11-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 4.8L, 6.0L, 6.6L
SAVANA 3500 VAN 11-12 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), ID 20815898, 25892622
TAHOE 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898, 25892622
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 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898, 25892622
YUKON XL 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898, 25892622
This module also replaces the following 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 no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module, saving you the time and expense of return shipping.
How do you program the module?
After you place your order, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We use this to load the latest, most stable GM-approved software directly onto the module, ensuring it matches your vehicle’s specific configuration.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable repair. Since we handle the programming, the physical installation is typically a plug-and-play process. The main challenge is accessing the module’s location within the dash.
Will this fix my ‘Service Airbag’ light?
If the airbag light is on due to a communication fault with the BCM, this will likely solve the root cause. However, after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure may be required with a professional scan tool to sync the modules and turn off the light.
What if I have questions during installation?
We are committed to your success. While we always recommend consulting a factory service manual, our team of experts is available to help guide you through the process and answer questions you may have.