Is Your 2010 Avalanche Experiencing Strange Electrical Issues?
If your truck’s power windows are acting possessed, the door locks have a mind of their own, or your dashboard lights are flickering randomly, you’re likely dealing with a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, managing everything from interior lighting and security systems to power accessories. When it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and unpredictable problems that can make your truck feel unreliable.
The Direct-Fit Solution: A Programmed BCM
Instead of spending a fortune at the dealership for a new module and expensive programming fees, we offer a simple, cost-effective solution. This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for your original unit. The real benefit is our professional programming service. Before we ship the part, we flash it with the latest official GM software, specifically matched to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This ensures that when you receive it, the module is ready for installation, integrating seamlessly with your Avalanche’s existing systems and options. This process eliminates the need for a trip to the dealer for programming, saving you time and money.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2010 Avalanche come into the shop with a classic case of BCM failure. The owner was frustrated because his remote key fob would only work intermittently, the dome lights would stay on, and the radio would randomly shut off. He thought he had multiple separate issues. After a quick scan, we pinpointed the BCM as the culprit. Instead of a complex and lengthy wiring diagnosis, we installed one of our pre-programmed BCMs. Within 30 minutes, all the phantom electrical issues were gone. The key fob worked perfectly, the lights behaved, and the radio was stable. It’s a perfect example of how one faulty module can create a host of problems, and how the right part can be a simple, complete fix.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 2010 Avalanche BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not working at all.
- ✔ The vehicle’s security system malfunctioning or falsely triggering the alarm.
- ✔ Intermittent operation of the radio, climate controls, or instrument cluster gauges.
- ✔ False warning lights on the dashboard, such as the airbag or brake light.
- ✔ Problems with the remote keyless entry system.
- ✔ Battery drain caused by the BCM not properly shutting down accessories.
Installation and Post-Installation Steps
Installation is straightforward for those with mechanical experience. The BCM is typically located under the steering column. After swapping the module, some vehicles may require a couple of simple relearn procedures to sync everything perfectly. These may include:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed. This requires a professional-grade scan tool and syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: Some models may require a brake pedal position sensor recalibration to ensure proper operation of brake lights and stability control systems.
Please note: Specific procedures can vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Part Number Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM part numbers. Please verify your original part number against this list to ensure compatibility: 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 need to send you my old BCM?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module, which can be helpful if you ever need to reference its original programming or part number.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for the part to function correctly in your vehicle.
Is this a plug-and-play installation?
For most vehicles, yes. Because we program the BCM to your VIN, it should function immediately upon installation. However, as noted above, some vehicles may require additional relearn procedures for systems like the airbags or brake pedal sensor, which require a diagnostic tool.
Will this fix my specific electrical problem?
This module will resolve issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. While the symptoms listed are very common indicators of BCM failure, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified technician to rule out other potential causes like wiring shorts or faulty switches.
What if I have an airbag light on after installation?
An airbag light is a common occurrence after a BCM replacement. It simply means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag system’s computer (SDM). A mechanic with a bi-directional scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes to clear the light.