Restore Your Traverse’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play Solution
If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical gremlins in your 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse—like flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, or a security system that has a mind of its own—you’re not alone. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can turn a reliable vehicle into a source of daily frustration. The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features, and when it starts to fail, the symptoms can be confusing and difficult to diagnose.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution. We take the biggest headache out of the repair process: programming. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN after purchase, and we will flash this module with the latest, most stable software directly from GM. This means it arrives at your door ready to be installed, saving you from a costly trip to the dealership and their programming fees. This is the same process we use in our own repair facility to get customers back on the road quickly and confidently.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Haunted Traverse
A customer brought in a 2011 Traverse with a classic BCM failure story. The interior lights would stay on, draining the battery overnight. The remote key fob worked intermittently, and the driver’s side power window would randomly stop working. They had already replaced the battery twice. A quick scan showed a slew of communication error codes (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of a complex wiring chase, we installed a pre-programmed BCM like this one. In under an hour, all the phantom issues were gone. This repair highlights how a single component can be the root cause of multiple, seemingly unrelated electrical problems.
Is Your Traverse Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty BCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a failing BCM is the likely culprit:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights (headlights, taillights, dome lights).
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry failing to operate correctly.
- ✔ The radio or instrument cluster displays acting strangely.
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain, even with a new battery.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Replacing the 2009-2012 Traverse BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. The module is typically located on the left-hand side of the dash, near the steering column. Follow these general steps for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Access the Module: You will likely need to remove the lower dash panel beneath the steering wheel to gain access to the BCM.
- 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 BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reinstall the dash panel, then reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, etc.
Important Post-Installation Steps
Because this module is central to many systems, a couple of quick relearn procedures may be necessary after installation. This is normal and ensures all related components communicate correctly with the new BCM.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. This syncs the airbag system with the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be required on some models.
Guaranteed Vehicle Compatibility
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 15276271 and a wide range of other interchangeable part numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles:
AVALANCHE 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 (center dash), ID 20921435, 20921436, or 22860591
CTS 08 (RH dash), 08-13 (LH dash)
DTS 06-11 (RH center dash)
ENCLAVE 08-12 (LH dash)
EQUINOX 07-09 (center dash)
ESCALADE 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
ESCALADE ESV 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
ESCALADE EXT 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
G8 08-09 (center dash)
HUMMER H2 08-09 (LH firewall)
IMPALA 06-12 (LH dash), 13 (LH dash), ID 22820315
LUCERNE 06-11 (right side dash)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 (LH steering column)
OUTLOOK 07-10 (center dash)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
SRX 07-09 (LH dash)
STS 10 (center dash)
SUBURBAN 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
TAHOE 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
TORRENT 07-09 (center dash)
TRAVERSE 09-12 (LH dash)
VUE 08-10 (center dash)
YUKON 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
YUKON XL 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898 or 25892622
This module also replaces these part numbers: 10382479, 15093910, 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a Body Control Module do?
The BCM is a computer that manages many of your vehicle’s non-engine-related functions, such as power windows, locks, lights, security system, wipers, and instrument panel warnings. It’s the command center for passenger comfort and convenience.
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle the programming for you before we ship the part. Just provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and it will arrive ready to install with the latest GM software for your specific vehicle.
What is a core charge? Do I have one?
A core charge is a deposit you pay until you return your old part. We make it simple: there is NO core charge on this item. You can keep your old module.
What if my airbag light is on after I install the new BCM?
This is a normal possibility. It simply means the new BCM needs to be electronically introduced to the airbag’s computer (SDM). A procedure called “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” can be performed with a bi-directional scan tool to resolve this.
Will this fix my specific electrical problem?
While this 2009-2012 Traverse BCM is the solution for the vast majority of electrical issues described, proper diagnosis is key. If you’re unsure, we recommend consulting a professional mechanic or referring to a factory service manual to confirm the BCM is the source of the fault.