Restore Electrical Control with a Programmed 2010 Avalanche 1500 BCM
If you’re dealing with flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, or a dashboard that’s lit up like a Christmas tree, you’re not alone. The Body Control Module (BCM) is the central nervous system for your truck’s electronics, and when it fails, it can cause a host of frustrating and unpredictable problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect your vehicle’s security and safety. This replacement Body Control Module, compatible with part number 20864768, is the direct-fit solution to restore full functionality to your 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500.
What sets this module apart is our professional Cloning Service. Instead of sending you a blank module that requires an expensive trip to the dealership for programming, we transfer the critical data from your original BCM directly to this replacement unit. This means the module arrives at your door ready for installation, preserving your vehicle’s specific settings and key information. It’s the most efficient way to get your truck back to perfect working order without the dealership hassle and cost.
Is Your Avalanche Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ The security system light stays on, or the alarm randomly goes off.
- ✔ Headlights or taillights acting erratically (staying on or not turning on).
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain that leaves you with a dead battery.
- ✔ Instrument cluster gauges behaving strangely or not working at all.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the system, such as U0140 (Lost Communication With BCM) or various B-codes (Body codes).
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2010 Avalanche that rolled into my bay with a truly baffling set of symptoms. The owner said his power locks would cycle on their own while driving, the radio would shut off randomly, and sometimes the truck wouldn’t recognize his key fob. He’d already replaced the battery twice. A quick scan showed a dozen communication codes pointing everywhere and nowhere. This is a classic sign of a BCM failure. The module was sending corrupt data across the vehicle’s network, causing other modules to panic. Instead of chasing each symptom, we went to the source. After installing a cloned BCM, every single issue vanished. It’s a perfect example of how one failing module can make a perfectly good truck feel like it’s falling apart.
A Straightforward Guide to BCM Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On the 2010 Avalanche, the BCM is typically located under the steering column, behind the driver’s side lower dashboard panel. You may need to remove a plastic trim panel for 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 the new, cloned BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical connectors. You should hear a click as they lock into place.
- ✔ Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Relearn Procedures: Start the vehicle and check for proper function of all accessories. As noted below, some simple relearn procedures may be necessary to finalize the installation.
Post-Installation Steps & Considerations
With our cloning service, most functions will work immediately. However, depending on your vehicle’s specific configuration, a couple of final sync procedures may be needed. This is standard for this type of repair.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This ensures the new BCM and the airbag system are communicating correctly.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: In some cases, the brake pedal position sensor may need to be recalibrated to ensure brake lights and traction control operate as designed.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 20864768 and is interchangeable with a wide range of other GM part numbers. It fits numerous vehicles. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to confirm fitment. Key compatible models include:
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 1500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-12
G8 08-09
HUMMER H2 08-09
IMPALA 06-13
LUCERNE 06-11
MONTE CARLO 06-07
OUTLOOK 07-10
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 3500 VAN 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: Fitment can depend on specific options. Always match your original part number from the list: 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a BCM cloning service?
Cloning is a process where we transfer the essential vehicle-specific data (like VIN, mileage, and key fob information) from your original, failing BCM to this replacement unit. This makes the installation process much simpler as it avoids the need for dealership programming.
Do I need to send my original BCM to you?
Yes, for the cloning service to be performed, you will need to ship your original module to us. We will clone the data onto the replacement unit and ship both modules back to you. We do not keep your original part.
Is this a difficult part to install for a DIYer?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable job. The BCM is usually accessible by removing a single dash panel, and it’s held in by a few bolts or clips. The main challenge is typically access, not the complexity of the task itself.
What happens if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is a known possibility. It means the new BCM and the airbag module (SDM) need to be electronically re-introduced. This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure, which can be done by any professional shop with a compatible bi-directional scan tool.
Will this fix my ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ message?
In many cases, yes. The BCM is a core component of the Passlock/Passkey anti-theft system. A failing BCM is a very common cause of this warning message. Our cloning service transfers your key data, which is critical for resolving this issue.