Stop Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck
Are you tired of your 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 acting like it’s possessed? One day the power windows work, the next they don’t. The radio cuts out randomly, and strange warning lights appear on your dash without reason. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your truck’s comfort and convenience features. When it starts to go, it can make your reliable vehicle feel unpredictable.
This isn’t just another part. This is a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the guesswork and the expensive dealership trip out of the equation. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN after purchase, and our technicians will program this BCM with the latest GM software specific to your Avalanche. This ensures that all the electronic handshakes between modules happen correctly from the moment you plug it in.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Avalanche with a Mind of Its Own
Just last month, a 2010 Avalanche 1500 was towed to my bay. The owner was at his wit’s end. The security light was flashing, preventing the truck from starting, the interior lights would flicker, and the driver’s side power lock was completely dead. His scan tool showed a dozen communication error codes (U-codes) pointing in every direction. After verifying the main power and ground connections to the BCM were solid, it was clear the module itself was the culprit. Internal circuit board failures, often from heat cycles and vibration over the years, cause these exact kinds of phantom issues. We installed one of our VIN-programmed BCMs, performed the quick security relearn, and every single problem vanished. The customer drove away with a truck that behaved like new.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM is the most likely cause. Replacing your 2010 Avalanche 1500 BCM can restore proper function and reliability.
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors work intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light is on, possibly causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Dashboard lights flicker, or gauges behave erratically.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights stay on or won’t turn on.
- ✔ The horn sounds randomly or doesn’t work.
- ✔ Communication error codes (U-codes) are stored in the system.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new BCM is manageable for a DIYer with basic tools. The key is taking your time and following the post-installation procedures.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow all modules to power down completely.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2010 Avalanche, the BCM is typically located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, to the left of the steering column. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the multiple 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 BCM: 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: This step is critical. You will need a capable diagnostic scan tool to perform two key functions: the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ to clear any airbag system faults, and potentially a Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn. A security relearn procedure may also be necessary, which can often be done without a scan tool.
Important Note: While this module is pre-programmed, these final vehicle-specific relearn procedures are essential for safety systems to function correctly. If you are not comfortable performing these steps, we recommend seeking assistance from a qualified professional mechanic.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 25826125 and a wide range of other GM part numbers. Please verify your original part number or confirm fitment for your specific model below.
AVALANCHE 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622
ACADIA 07-12 (LH dash)
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 (center dash), ID 20921435, 20921436, 22860591
CTS 08-13 (LH dash or RH dash)
DTS 06-11 (RH center dash)
ENCLAVE 08-12 (LH dash)
ESCALADE / ESV / EXT 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622 or 20815898
EXPRESS/SAVANA VANS 08-12 (center dash)
HUMMER H2 08-09 (LH firewall)
IMPALA 06-13 (LH dash)
LUCERNE 06-11 (right side dash)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 (LH steering column)
OUTLOOK 07-10 (center dash)
SRX 07-09 (LH dash)
SUBURBAN 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622 or 20815898
TAHOE/YUKON 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622 or 20815898
TRAVERSE 09-12 (LH dash)
…and many others. This part supersedes: 10382479, 15093910, 15276271, 15299986, 15819552, 15828601, 15837419, 15872388, 15872421, 15880684, 15921352, 15921353, 15948438, 15948439, 20815898, 20839063, 20864767, 20864768, 20921435, 20921436, 20935349, 22860591, 25826124, 25847588, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this BCM programmed by a dealer?
No. We handle the programming for you before we ship the part. Just provide your VIN during checkout, and it will arrive with the correct GM software for your vehicle, saving you time and money.
Where is the BCM located on a 2010 Avalanche 1500?
The BCM is found on the driver’s side, under the dashboard, and typically to the left of the steering column. You will likely need to remove the plastic knee bolster panel to access it.
What is the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure mentioned?
This is a required security handshake between the new BCM and the airbag system’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). It must be performed with a compatible scan tool after installation to ensure the airbag system is fully operational and to clear the airbag warning light from the dash.
Will this fix my intermittent no-start problem?
It very likely will, especially if you have a flashing security light on the dashboard. The BCM is a core part of the Passlock/Passkey anti-theft system, and its failure is a common cause of no-start conditions on these GM trucks.
What if I install it and still have problems?
First, ensure all post-installation relearn procedures have been completed correctly. If issues persist, it’s important to verify the vehicle’s wiring, grounds, and power feeds to the BCM. While this part fixes the vast majority of cases, it can’t resolve underlying wiring issues in the vehicle.