Restore Control Over Your Van’s Electronics
Are you battling bizarre electrical issues in your 2008-2012 GMC Savana 2500? One minute the power locks work, the next they don’t. Maybe your interior lights have a mind of their own, or you’re seeing strange warning messages on the dash. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your van’s comfort and convenience features, and when it starts to go, it can make your vehicle feel unreliable and frustrating to use.
This isn’t just another part. This is a complete, plug-and-play solution. We take a high-quality replacement BCM and program it with the latest GM software specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This means you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a reliable part that’s ready to install right out of the box, solving the root cause of those electrical gremlins and getting your workhorse van back to full operational status.
A Technician’s Notebook
“Just last month, a contractor brought in his 2011 Savana 2500. The complaint was ‘it’s possessed.’ The radio would turn on by itself, the security light was flashing intermittently, and the driver’s side power window would only work occasionally. He’d already replaced the window switch to no avail. A quick scan showed multiple communication loss codes with the BCM. After confirming power and ground to the module were good, we knew the BCM itself was the culprit. These modules, especially in work vans that see a lot of vibration and temperature swings, can develop internal solder joint failures. We installed one of our pre-programmed units, and within an hour, every single issue was resolved. The customer was thrilled to avoid a multi-day stay at the dealer and get back to his job site.”
Is Your Savana Showing These Electrical Gremlins?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows and door locks.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lights staying on or not turning on at all.
- ✔ The security system acting up or preventing the vehicle from starting.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ False warnings on the instrument cluster (e.g., ‘Service Theft System’).
- ✔ Wipers operating intermittently or not parking in the correct position.
- ✔ Communication issues with diagnostic scan tools.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your new 2008-2012 Savana 2500 BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. In most Savana and Express vans, the BCM is located in the center dash area.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Access the Module: Carefully remove the necessary dash trim panels to gain access to the BCM. Its exact location is typically behind the center console or glove box area.
- Disconnect and Remove: 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 BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click securely into place.
- Perform Post-Installation Procedures: Reconnect the battery. You will need to perform a couple of crucial relearn procedures. This is not optional for safety and proper function. Using a compatible professional scan tool, perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to clear any airbag faults. You may also need to perform a Brake Pedal Position Sensor Calibration.
- Test Everything: Start the vehicle and test all body functions: lights, locks, windows, wipers, and horn to confirm the repair was successful.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 10382479 and interchanges with a wide range of other GM part numbers. While this listing is focused on the 2008-2012 Savana 2500 BCM, it also fits many other vehicles. Please verify your part number or consult the compatibility list below.
Compatible 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
Partial Fitment List:
- GMC Savana / Chevrolet Express Vans (1500, 2500, 3500) – 2008-2012
- GMC Acadia / Chevy Traverse / Buick Enclave – 2007-2012
- Chevy Impala – 2006-2013
- Cadillac DTS / CTS / SRX – Various Years
- Chevy Tahoe / Suburban / Avalanche – Various Years
- GMC Yukon / Yukon XL – Various Years
- And many more. Please check the detailed list provided in the original description.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to provide my VIN?
Yes, providing your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. We use it to load the precise, vehicle-specific software and calibrations from GM, ensuring the BCM works perfectly with the options your van was built with.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
The physical installation is plug-and-play. However, after installation, you MUST perform critical relearn procedures, such as the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ for the airbag system and potentially a brake pedal calibration. These require a professional-grade scan tool.
What happens if I don’t do the relearn procedures?
Skipping these steps is not recommended. You will likely have a persistent airbag warning light on your dash, and your brake lights or cruise control may not function correctly, which are significant safety concerns.
Will this fix my ‘Service Theft System’ message?
In many cases, yes. The BCM is a core part of the Passlock/Passkey vehicle security system. A failing BCM is a very common cause of this warning message and related no-start conditions.
What tools do I need to replace the BCM?
You’ll need basic hand tools like a socket set and trim removal tools to access the module. The most important tool is a compatible bi-directional scan tool to perform the necessary post-installation programming and calibrations.