Restore Your Van’s Electrical Sanity
Is your 2008-2012 GMC Savana 3500 van giving you headaches with bizarre electrical issues? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all: power windows with a mind of their own, dashboard lights flickering like a holiday display, or the security system preventing you from starting your work day. These aren’t random glitches; they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM), the electronic nerve center of your vehicle’s comfort and security features.
A faulty BCM can bring your operations to a grinding halt. This isn’t just an inconvenience; for a workhorse like the Savana 3500, it’s lost time and money. The dealership solution involves high costs for the part, labor, and mandatory programming fees. We offer a better way. This replacement BCM, part number 20935349, arrives at your door pre-programmed for your specific vehicle. We use your VIN to flash the module with the latest GM software updates, creating a true plug-and-play solution that gets you back on the road fast.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Gremlin
A local contractor brought in his Savana 3500, complaining that sometimes the interior lights wouldn’t turn off, draining the battery overnight. Other days, the power locks wouldn’t respond. He’d already replaced the battery and checked fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I found multiple U-codes (communication errors) pointing to the BCM. Water intrusion from a leaky windshield cowl seal had caused corrosion on the BCM board—a very common issue on these vans. Instead of a costly dealer repair, we used one of our pre-programmed modules. The swap took less than an hour, and with the VIN-matched software, all systems immediately returned to normal. He was back on the job the same day, saving hundreds in parts, labor, and lost work.
Is Your Van Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light is on, and the engine won’t start.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing randomly (e.g., ABS, Airbag).
- ✔ Horn or windshield wipers activating unexpectedly.
- ✔ Communication error codes stored, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ A/C and heater blower motor controls not responding correctly.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work. Wait a few minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On most Savana and Express vans, the BCM is located in the center dash area, often behind the glove box or a lower dash panel. 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 module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Securely plug in all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position (without starting the engine) and test all body functions: lights, locks, windows, wipers, etc.
- ✔ Perform Relearns (If Needed): Start the vehicle. If you see an airbag light or experience issues with brake lights, you may need to perform the Post-Installation Procedures mentioned below with a capable scan tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers. Please verify your vehicle and options from the list below. This module replaces 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.
Note: Specific options and IDs may apply. Please match your part number or contact us with your VIN.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
It’s simple. After you complete your purchase, you’ll provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians will then use certified equipment to program this BCM with the exact software and settings for your Savana, ensuring it works correctly right out of the box.
Do I need to send my old BCM to you?
No. This is not a repair service for your old part. We program a replacement BCM and ship it to you. We also return your original module with the shipment; we do not keep cores.
What is the ‘Airbag System Sync’ procedure?
In some cases, after installing the new BCM, the airbag light may illuminate. This is because the BCM and the airbag module (SDM) need to be electronically re-synced. A professional scan tool is required for this ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure. It’s only necessary if the light is on after installation.
Will I need to perform a Brake Pedal Position relearn?
It’s possible. This procedure recalibrates the sensor that tells the BCM how far the brake pedal is pressed. It’s important for proper brake light and traction control operation. This also requires a professional-grade diagnostic tool and may be needed depending on your specific model.
What if I still have problems after installation?
While this BCM will fix issues caused by a faulty module, it won’t fix problems from other parts of the vehicle (like bad wiring or faulty sensors). If issues persist, a full diagnosis by a qualified technician is recommended to check the entire system.
Is this a guaranteed fit for my 2011 Savana 3500?
Yes, this module is specified for the 2008-2012 Savana 3500 Van. By providing your VIN, we ensure the programming is a perfect match for your vehicle’s specific configuration, guaranteeing compatibility.