Restore Your Truck’s Electrical System with a VIN-Programmed BCM
Are you battling strange and frustrating electrical problems in your 2010 Chevy Avalanche? Flickering dash lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security system that prevents your truck from starting can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can wreak havoc. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a reliability issue. We offer a direct-fit, plug-and-play solution. This Body Control Module, part number 15880684, arrives at your door pre-programmed to your truck’s specific VIN, loaded with the latest GM software updates. This eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you time and money.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Avalanche That Wouldn’t Cooperate
Just last month, a 2010 Avalanche 1500 was towed into my bay. The owner was at his wit’s end. The interior lights would pulse randomly, the radio would shut off, and sometimes the truck would refuse to crank, showing a ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ message. His battery was new, and the alternator checked out fine. After connecting my scan tool, I saw a flurry of communication errors between various modules. This is a classic sign of a BCM failure. Instead of a complex rewiring job, the fix was straightforward. We ordered a VIN-programmed BCM, performed the simple swap, and completed the required security relearn procedure. The truck fired right up, and every single electrical gremlin was gone. This is the exact, reliable fix we provide to get your vehicle back in top shape.
Is Your Avalanche Showing These Symptoms?
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 replacement:
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Erratic interior or exterior lighting (flickering, staying on, or not working at all).
- ✔ Horn sounding randomly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ message and no-start conditions.
- ✔ False warnings on the instrument cluster (e.g., door ajar, low tire pressure).
- ✔ Problems with the keyless entry or remote start system.
- ✔ Communication errors with a professional scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Installing your new 2010 Avalanche 1500 BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Follow these steps carefully for a successful replacement.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2010 Avalanche, the BCM is typically located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column. You may need to remove a lower dash 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 and remove it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Reconnect all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- CRITICAL Final Steps: After installation, you must perform a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a capable diagnostic tool to ensure the airbag system communicates correctly and the warning light goes out. Some vehicles may also require a Brake Pedal Position Sensor calibration. If you are not equipped to perform these steps, a professional technician’s assistance is recommended.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 15880684 and interchanges with a wide range of other GM part numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the 2010 Avalanche 1500 and many other vehicles. Please verify your part number or consult the list below.
Interchangeable 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
Do I really need to provide my VIN?
Yes, absolutely. Providing your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is crucial. We use it to program the BCM with the correct software and vehicle-specific options for your 2010 Avalanche 1500, ensuring it works seamlessly right out of the box.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
For the most part, yes. Because we pre-program it, you avoid the most difficult step. However, as noted in the installation guide, you will need to perform a security relearn and potentially other minor calibrations (like for the airbag system or brake pedal sensor) with a proper scan tool to finalize the installation and ensure all systems work correctly.
Will this fix my ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ error?
In many cases, yes. A failing BCM is a very common cause of this error message and the associated no-start condition on these GM trucks. Replacing it with a correctly programmed unit often resolves the problem entirely after the security relearn is completed.
What tools are needed for the final calibration steps?
A bi-directional scan tool is required for procedures like the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ and brake pedal calibration. Tools like the Autel MaxiSYS, Snap-on Solus, or similar professional-grade scanners have these capabilities. Many local independent shops can perform these final steps for you if you don’t own one.