Is Your Savana 3500 Experiencing Bizarre Electrical Problems?
If your 2008-2012 GMC Savana 3500 is acting possessed—with flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows or locks, a security system that engages randomly, or a dashboard that lights up with inexplicable warnings—the culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your van’s body electronics, coordinating everything from the interior lights and horn to the anti-theft system. When it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated issues.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We once had a customer with a 2010 Express van (which shares this BCM) who was convinced he had a parasitic battery drain. He had replaced the battery twice and the alternator once, but the van would still be dead after sitting for a couple of days. He spent weeks chasing wires and pulling fuses. After bringing it to us, we traced the drain back to the BCM, which was failing to let other modules go to ‘sleep’ after the ignition was off. A new, properly programmed BCM solved a problem that had cost him over a thousand dollars in unnecessary parts and countless hours of frustration.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Savana 3500 Body Control Module
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Erratic behavior from interior or exterior lights (flickering, staying on, or not turning on at all).
- ✔ The security system or alarm randomly activating or preventing the vehicle from starting.
- ✔ Inaccurate or non-working gauges on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ The radio or climate control system turning on or off by itself.
- ✔ A persistent ‘Service Electrical System’ or similar warning message on the dash.
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain that leaves you with a dead battery.
Your Direct-Fit, Programmed Solution
Don’t let a faulty BCM keep your work van off the road. This Body Control Module is a reliable, direct-replacement solution for your vehicle. We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the equation. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) during checkout, and our technicians will program the module with the latest GM software specific to your Savana 3500. This ensures that all the factory options and systems your van came with will function correctly right out of the box.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a restoration of your vehicle’s core electronic functions. The module arrives ready for installation, saving you a costly trip to the dealer for programming.
Installation and Post-Install Procedures
While the physical installation of the BCM is typically straightforward, some vehicles may require additional electronic ‘handshake’ procedures after the new module is connected. These are not always necessary but are important to be aware of:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light illuminates after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a professional-grade scan tool. 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 the brake lights and traction control system function as intended.
Please consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for vehicle-specific guidance.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and interchanges with numerous part numbers. Please verify your original part number against the list below to ensure compatibility.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does the Body Control Module do on my Savana van?
The BCM acts as a central hub for most of your van’s non-engine related electronics. It controls functions like power windows, locks, interior lighting, the security system, wipers, and the horn. It communicates with other modules to ensure all these comfort and convenience features work together seamlessly.
Is this part truly ‘plug-and-play’?
Yes, for the vast majority of installations. Because we pre-program the module to your specific VIN, it eliminates the need for dealer programming. You install it, and it’s ready to work. In some rare cases, as noted above, a simple relearn procedure like for the brake pedal sensor may be required, which can be done with many professional scan tools.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for the part to function in your vehicle.
What happens if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This indicates that the new BCM needs to be electronically synced with your vehicle’s existing Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) module. A technician with a capable diagnostic tool will need to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to complete the handshake and turn off the light.
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No. This product has no core charge. You can keep your original module, which can be helpful for double-checking part numbers or for your own records.