Fix Your Truck’s Electrical Gremlins for Good
Is your Silverado, Sierra, or Tahoe acting possessed? Flickering lights, a dead climate control panel, or power windows with a mind of their own are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central computer for your vehicle’s comfort and security features, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. This OEM-quality replacement, part number 15284816, is the reliable, long-term solution you need to restore full functionality to your truck or SUV.
What sets our service apart is our professional Cloning Service. You send us your original BCM, and we transfer its exact data—including security information and vehicle-specific options—to this replacement unit. The module arrives back at your door ready for a true plug-and-play installation, completely bypassing the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. This is the most efficient way to replace a 2013 Silverado 3500 BCM and get your workhorse back in service.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Fault That Wasn’t
A 2011 Sierra 2500 came into my bay with a complaint that stumped two other shops: the radio and HVAC would randomly shut off, and the driver’s power window would stop working, but only on hot days. They’d already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scanner, I saw communication loss codes with the BCM. Instead of just swapping the module, I first checked the main BCM ground point located on the A-pillar behind the kick panel. Sure enough, it was slightly loose and had developed corrosion. After cleaning and tightening the ground, the problem was solved. This is why I always tell customers: when you replace a BCM, always inspect the ground connections. It’s a 5-minute check that can prevent a new part from failing or a misdiagnosis.
Is Your GM Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- âś” Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- âś” The HVAC system is unresponsive, or the blower motor works intermittently.
- âś” An airbag warning light is illuminated on the dash, often with DTC B1001 (SDM Mismatch).
- âś” The security system acts up, causing a no-start condition or random alarm triggers.
- âś” Communication errors with other modules on the CAN bus network.
- âś” Strange electrical behavior that seems to have no logical cause.
Your 5-Minute Path to a Fully Functional Truck
- âś” Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electronic components.
- âś” Locate the BCM: On most GM trucks and SUVs of this era, the Body Control Module is located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, often near the steering column. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- âś” Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unclip or unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- âś” Install the New Module: Seat the replacement BCM into the mounting bracket and securely plug in all the electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- âś” Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- âś” Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, wipers, and HVAC. If the airbag light is on, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure may be needed with a compatible scan tool. See our FAQ for more details.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Truck or SUV
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. It is interchangeable with part numbers including 15263363, 15263497, 15878753, 15284816, 15943678, 25835966, and many more. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to confirm compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Cloning Service work?
It’s simple. After you place your order, you’ll ship your original BCM to us. We use specialized equipment to read the unique vehicle data from your module and write it directly onto the replacement unit. We then ship both your original module and the ready-to-install replacement back to you. This ensures 100% compatibility without dealer intervention.
Do I need to do any programming after installation?
No, our cloning service handles all the necessary programming. The module will be plug-and-play. In some cases, if your airbag light is on, a simple ‘SDM Key Relearn’ procedure may be required using a bi-directional scan tool. A ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn’ may also be needed, but these are relearn procedures, not programming.
What if my original module is completely dead or missing?
If your module is non-communicative (e.g., due to water damage or severe internal failure), cloning may not be possible. In these situations, we may be able to program the module using your VIN, but some functions might require additional setup. Please contact us before ordering if your module is dead.
Why is my airbag light on after installing the new BCM?
This is a common security measure in GM vehicles. The BCM and the Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM, or airbag module) are linked. When the BCM is replaced, this link can be broken, triggering the light and DTC B1001. A professional scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ function in under a minute to resolve this.
Is there a core charge?
No. We require your original module for the cloning process, but we always return it to you along with the replacement. You are not charged a separate core fee.
Don’t let electrical problems sideline your truck. This solution for the 2013 Silverado 3500 BCM provides a permanent fix, restoring the reliability you depend on. Order today and get your vehicle back to 100%.