Restore Full Electrical Function to Your GM Van or SUV
Is your 2008-2012 Savana 3500 plagued by bizarre electrical problems? One minute the power locks don’t work, the next the interior lights won’t turn off, 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 acts as the central hub for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it starts to go, it can make your reliable workhorse feel unpredictable. This isn’t a problem you have to live with. We offer a dependable, direct-fit solution with this Savana 3500 Body Control Module.
The biggest hurdle in replacing a BCM has always been the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. We eliminate that step entirely. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will program this module with the latest GM software specific to your Savana 3500. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you hundreds in potential labor and programming fees and getting your van back on the road where it belongs.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in their 2011 Savana 3500 work van last month with a list of complaints that seemed unrelated. The radio would cut out, the driver’s side power window was intermittent, and the battery would be dead some mornings. They had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I saw multiple communication loss codes with various modules. In my 20+ years of experience, this pattern almost always points to the BCM. Internal corrosion, often from moisture intrusion on these vans, had compromised the circuit board. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and within an hour, every single electrical gremlin was gone. The customer was back on the job site the same day, avoiding costly downtime.
Is Your Savana Van Exhibiting These Electrical Issues?
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your Body Control Module needs attention:
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on or not turning on.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system acting up, potentially causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Unresponsive key fob or remote entry issues.
- ✔ False warning lights or messages on the instrument cluster (e.g., “Service Theft System”).
- ✔ Intermittent operation of the radio or climate controls.
- ✔ Parasitic battery drain that kills your battery overnight.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
For the confident DIYer or professional mechanic, replacing the BCM is a manageable job. On 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 before working on any electronic components.
- Locate the BCM: On most Savana/Express vans, you’ll find the BCM behind a panel in the center dash, often near the driver’s footwell area. You may need to remove a few trim pieces to gain access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip 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 connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Final Procedures: Follow the critical post-installation steps below to ensure all systems are communicating correctly.
Important: Post-Installation System Relearns
After installing your new Savana 3500 Body Control Module, a few final steps are required to ensure full functionality and safety. These are not optional and must be performed with a compatible high-level diagnostic scan tool.
- Airbag System Sync: You must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This step is crucial for clearing the airbag warning light and ensuring the safety system is operational.
- Brake Sensor Calibration: Some vehicles will require a Brake Pedal Position Sensor recalibration. This ensures the BCM receives accurate input for systems like cruise control and brake lights.
Note: If you are not equipped to perform these procedures, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a professional technician.
Verified to Fit These GM Models
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and interchanges with multiple part numbers. Please verify your vehicle and part number below. This unit replaces part numbers including: 15948439, 10382479, 15819552, 15921353, 20864767, 22860591, and many more listed in the fitment data.
Chevrolet: AVALANCHE 1500 10, CAPRICE 11-13, CAPTIVA SPORT 12, EQUINOX 07-09, EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN 08-12, IMPALA 06-13, MONTE CARLO 06-07, SUBURBAN 1500 10, TAHOE 10, TRAVERSE 09-12
Cadillac: CTS 08-13, DTS 06-11, ESCALADE/ESV/EXT 10, SRX 07-09, STS 10
Buick: ENCLAVE 08-12, LUCERNE 06-11
Pontiac: G8 08-09, TORRENT 07-09
Saturn: OUTLOOK 07-10, VUE 08-10
Hummer: H2 08-09
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Body Control Module (BCM) do?
The BCM is a computer in your vehicle that manages and controls many of the non-engine related electronic functions. This includes power windows, locks, interior and exterior lighting, security system, wipers, and climate controls.
Why do you need my VIN to program the module?
Every vehicle has specific options and configurations (like power seats, sunroof, keyless entry type, etc.). Programming the BCM with your VIN ensures that the module is loaded with the correct software from GM to operate all the features your specific vehicle was built with.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
Because we program it to your VIN, it is as close to plug-and-play as possible. You can install it yourself, but as noted, critical ‘relearn’ procedures for the airbag and brake systems must be performed with a scan tool afterward for the repair to be complete.
Will this fix my car’s no-start problem?
It can. A common BCM failure involves the vehicle’s anti-theft or security system (like Passlock or Passkey). If the BCM fails to recognize your key, it will prevent the engine from starting. This part can resolve that specific issue.
What tools are needed for the installation?
Basic hand tools like a socket set and trim removal tools are usually sufficient for the physical installation. However, you will need a professional-grade bidirectional scan tool to perform the required post-installation relearn procedures.