Restore Full Functionality to Your GM Vehicle
Are you battling frustrating and unpredictable electrical issues in your Chevrolet Traverse? Flickering dash lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security system that won’t cooperate are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty BCM can turn a reliable vehicle into a source of daily headaches. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect vehicle security and safety systems. This replacement Body Control Module is the definitive solution, arriving at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN with the latest GM software updates.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Confused Traverse
Just last month, a 2011 Traverse was brought into my bay. The owner was at his wit’s end. The radio would randomly shut off, the liftgate wouldn’t open, and he’d find the battery dead some mornings. He had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I saw multiple communication loss codes with various modules. This is a tell-tale sign. Instead of a dozen separate problems, the issue pointed to one central failure: the BCM. By installing a pre-programmed 2009-2012 Traverse Body Control Module like this one, we resolved all the phantom issues in a single repair, saving the customer from expensive and unnecessary diagnostic guesswork at the dealership.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Erratic behavior from the dashboard gauges or interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security system acting up or preventing the vehicle from starting.
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain that leaves you stranded.
- ✔ Warning lights (like the airbag light) staying on after a component has been checked.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
The Smart Solution: Skip the Dealership Hassle
Traditionally, replacing a BCM meant having your vehicle towed to a dealership for costly programming. Our service eliminates that step. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our experts will flash this module for you. It will be ready for installation upon arrival, making this a straightforward and cost-effective repair for both seasoned mechanics and capable DIY enthusiasts. This is the most efficient way to get your Traverse, Acadia, or other compatible GM vehicle working correctly again.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2009-2012 Traverse, the Body Control Module is typically located on the left-hand (driver’s) side of the dashboard, often behind the lower dash panel near the steering column.
- Remove Trim Panels: Carefully remove any plastic trim or panels necessary to access the module. Use a trim removal tool to avoid scratching or breaking clips.
- 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 Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Post-Installation Procedures: Reconnect the battery. Crucially, you must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a compatible high-level scan tool to ensure the airbag system communicates correctly and the warning light turns off. Some vehicles may also require a Brake Pedal Position Sensor recalibration.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, identified by part number 20839063, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and supersedes many other part numbers. Please verify your vehicle is on this list:
Fitment:
ACADIA 07-12, AVALANCHE 1500 10, CAPRICE 11-13, CAPTIVA SPORT 12, CTS 08-13, DTS 06-11, ENCLAVE 08-12, EQUINOX 07-09, ESCALADE 10, ESCALADE ESV 10, ESCALADE EXT 10, EXPRESS VANS (1500/2500/3500) 08-12, G8 08-09, HUMMER H2 08-09, IMPALA 06-13, LUCERNE 06-11, MONTE CARLO 06-07, OUTLOOK 07-10, SAVANA VANS (1500/2500/3500) 08-12, SRX 07-09, STS 10, SUBURBAN 1500 10, TAHOE 10, TORRENT 07-09, TRAVERSE 09-12, VUE 08-10, YUKON 10, YUKON XL 1500 10. (Note: Specific options/IDs may apply, please check original part number.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a Body Control Module do?
The BCM is essentially the brain for your vehicle’s body electronics. It doesn’t control the engine, but it manages functions like power windows, interior and exterior lighting, the security system, door locks, wipers, and various comfort features, ensuring they all work together.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
The physical replacement is generally straightforward for someone with basic mechanical skills, involving removing trim panels and swapping the module. However, the critical final step requires a professional-grade scan tool to perform the security and airbag system relearn procedures. Without this step, you will have an airbag light on.
How does the VIN programming work?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our technicians use this number to load the exact, correct software and vehicle-specific settings from GM’s database onto the module before we ship it to you.
Will this fix my ‘Service Airbag’ message?
If the message is caused by a faulty BCM, yes. However, after installing the new BCM, you MUST perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This re-establishes communication between the new BCM and the airbag system’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM), which will clear the light.
What happens if I don’t provide my VIN?
We cannot ship the module without your VIN. The programming is essential for the part to function correctly in your vehicle. We will hold your order and contact you to get the necessary information before proceeding.