Restore Full Electrical Control to Your 2011-2013 Chevrolet Caprice
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand the chaos a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can cause. It’s the central nervous system for your car’s comfort and security features, and when it goes bad, you’re left with a vehicle that seems to have a mind of its own. If your 2011-2013 Caprice is plagued by flickering lights, unresponsive power windows, or a security system that won’t cooperate, you’ve found the solution. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct, hassle-free fix.
This Body Control Module, part number 25847588, is the definitive answer to those frustrating electrical gremlins. The biggest headache with BCM replacement has always been the mandatory, and often expensive, trip to the dealership for programming. We eliminate that step entirely. Before this module ships, my team and I will professionally program it using your vehicle’s VIN. It arrives at your door loaded with the latest GM software updates, specific to your Caprice, making the installation process as straightforward as possible.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Haunted Police Cruiser
A local police department brought in a 2012 Caprice PPV that was driving the officers crazy. The dome lights would randomly turn on, the power locks would cycle while driving, and occasionally the car wouldn’t start, throwing a U0140 (Lost Communication with BCM) code. They had already replaced the battery and checked grounds. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw erratic data coming from the BCM. Instead of a costly diagnostic rabbit hole, we recommended this pre-programmed module. They installed it themselves in under an hour, performed the necessary key relearn, and the vehicle was back in service the same day—no dealership appointment needed. It’s a testament to how a reliable, pre-programmed part saves critical time and money.
Is Your Caprice Showing These BCM Failure Signs?
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is your likely solution:
- ✔ Erratic interior or exterior lights (flickering, staying on, or not working at all).
- ✔ Power windows, mirrors, or door locks operating intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The vehicle’s security system acting up, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Horn sounding unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing for seemingly unrelated systems.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or B1001.
- ✔ Wipers turning on by themselves or not responding to the switch.
Your Step-by-Step BCM Installation Guide
Installing your new 2011-2013 Caprice BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Follow these steps for a successful replacement.
- Safety First: Always begin by disconnecting the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2011-2013 Caprice, the Body Control Module is typically located in the passenger compartment, under the dashboard, often on the driver’s side near the steering column or behind the glove box.
- Remove Trim & Access: You may need to remove lower dash panels or the glove box assembly to gain clear access to the module. Keep your screws organized.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all 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 exact same position as the old one. Securely reconnect all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- Post-Installation Procedures: Reconnect the battery terminal. You will need to perform a key relearn procedure (often called a security relearn) which can typically be done without special tools. More importantly, as noted below, you must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a high-end scan tool to clear the airbag light and ensure the SRS system is operational. Some vehicles may also require a Brake Pedal Position Sensor calibration.
CRITICAL POST-INSTALLATION NOTICE
After installing your new BCM, a few final steps are required to ensure all systems function correctly and safely:
- Airbag System Reset: To extinguish the airbag warning light and ensure the system is active, you MUST perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This requires a professional-grade diagnostic scan tool.
- Brake Pedal Calibration: Some vehicles may require the Brake Pedal Position (BPP) sensor to be recalibrated after BCM replacement. This is essential for proper brake light operation and stability control function.
- Consult Your Manual: These procedures can vary slightly. We always recommend consulting your vehicle’s service manual or seeking help from a qualified technician if you are uncertain.
Verified Fitment for a Wide Range of GM Vehicles
While this is the perfect solution for the 2011-2013 Caprice BCM, this module is also a direct replacement for a vast array of other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs. Please verify your original part number against the list below. This part is a compatible replacement for the following 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, and 95151084. It fits models such as the Impala, Tahoe, Suburban, Escalade, Express/Savana vans, Acadia, Traverse, and more. Please check the detailed fitment list in the product specifications to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle and options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After completing your purchase, simply send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we receive this information.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
It’s very close. The module is pre-programmed to your VIN, which handles the most difficult part. However, you will still need to perform a security/key relearn and, most importantly, have the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure done with a scan tool to ensure the airbag system is functional.
What tools are required for the job?
Basic hand tools like a socket set and screwdrivers are needed for removal and installation. For the essential post-installation steps, a high-quality bidirectional scan tool is required for the airbag system reset and potential brake sensor calibration.
Will this fix my ‘Service StabiliTrak’ message?
A failing BCM can sometimes trigger StabiliTrak or ABS warnings due to lost communication or bad sensor data (like from the brake pedal position sensor). While it’s a strong possibility, you should always perform a full diagnostic scan to confirm the root cause.
What happens if I don’t do the airbag system reset?
The airbag warning light will remain illuminated on your dashboard, and more importantly, the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) will be inactive. This is a critical safety failure, and the procedure must be completed.
Does this BCM come with a warranty?
Yes, all our programmed modules come with a comprehensive warranty. Please see the warranty tab for full details and feel confident in your purchase.