Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a VIN-Programmed BCM
If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your GM vehicle—like power windows with a mind of their own, dashboard lights flickering like a disco, or a security system that randomly prevents you from starting your car—you’ve likely met the culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features, a faulty BCM can turn your daily drive into a frustrating guessing game. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can be a significant safety and reliability concern.
This is a direct-fit replacement Body Control Module, compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers including 15828601. The biggest hurdle in replacing a BCM has always been the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. We eliminate that step entirely. By providing us with your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, our technicians will pre-program this module with the latest GM software specific to your car or truck. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you hundreds in dealer fees and diagnostic time.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Haunted Express Van
I remember a 2009 Chevy Express 3500 that came into my shop. The owner, a contractor, was at his wit’s end. The interior lights would stay on, draining the battery overnight. The radio would turn on and off by itself, and the power door locks worked intermittently. He’d already replaced the battery twice. A scan showed a dozen communication codes, all pointing to network chaos. After checking the main power and ground circuits, we focused on the BCM. A failing BCM can corrupt the data network, causing other modules to act erratically. We installed a new, pre-programmed BCM, and it was like flipping a switch. All the phantom issues vanished. It’s a classic example of how this single component can cause widespread, confusing problems.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing BCM doesn’t always trigger a check engine light. Instead, it manifests as a series of strange electrical failures. Here are the most common signs I’ve seen in my 20+ years of diagnostics:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights that won’t turn on or off.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like ABS or Airbag) illuminating for no reason.
- ✔ Horn sounding unexpectedly or not working at all.
- ✔ Intermittent wiper operation or wipers that won’t park correctly.
- ✔ Communication error codes, such as U0140, U0155, or other “U” codes, stored in various modules.
Your Step-by-Step BCM Installation Guide
Replacing the BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The location varies by model (see fitment list), but it’s typically under the dash. Always consult a service manual for your specific vehicle.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10-15 minutes to allow all modules to power down completely.
- Locate the BCM: Find the old BCM. It’s often located on the driver’s or passenger’s side, under the dashboard, or behind a kick panel.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. 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 same location. Securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses. You should hear a click as they lock into place.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearns (If Needed): Start the vehicle. In some cases, you may need to perform a post-installation procedure, like a Brake Pedal Position Relearn or an Airbag System Sync, if related warning lights appear.
Important Post-Installation Information
Because this Programmed GM Body Control Module is flashed to your VIN, it integrates seamlessly in most cases. However, depending on your vehicle’s specific configuration, some additional sync procedures may be required. This is a normal part of the process when replacing a central computer.
- No Core Charge: You are not required to return your old BCM. There is no core fee.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed. This requires a professional-grade scan tool to sync the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary to ensure correct operation of the brake lights and stability control systems.
- Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide array of GM vehicles and supersedes numerous part numbers. Please match your part number from the list below or confirm your vehicle is listed. This module replaces 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, 95151084.
AVALANCHE 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 (center dash), ID 20921435/20921436/22860591
CTS 08 (RH dash)
CTS 08-13 (LH dash)
DTS 06-11 (RH center dash)
ENCLAVE 08-12 (LH dash)
EQUINOX 07-09 (center dash)
ESCALADE 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898/25892622
ESCALADE ESV 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898/25892622
ESCALADE EXT 10 (under steering column), ID 25892622
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
G8 08-09 (center dash)
HUMMER H2 08-09 (LH firewall)
IMPALA 06-12 (LH dash)
IMPALA 13 (LH dash), ID 22820315
LUCERNE 06-11 (right side dash)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 (LH steering column)
OUTLOOK 07-10 (center dash)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 08-12 (center dash)
SRX 07-09 (LH dash)
STS 10 (center dash)
SUBURBAN 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898/25892622
TAHOE 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898/25892622
TORRENT 07-09 (center dash)
TRAVERSE 09-12 (LH dash)
VUE 08-10 (center dash)
YUKON 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898/25892622
YUKON XL 1500 10 (under steering column), ID 20815898/25892622
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN number?
We require your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to program the module with the exact software and vehicle-specific options that your car came with from the factory. This ensures compatibility and proper function without needing a trip to the dealer.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
For most vehicles, yes. Because we program it beforehand, you can simply install it. However, as noted above, some vehicles may require an additional relearn procedure (like for the airbag or brake pedal sensor) which may require a professional scan tool.
Do I have to return my old BCM?
No. We do not require you to send back your original part. There is no core charge or fee associated with this purchase.
Will this fix my ‘Service Theft System’ message?
A failing BCM is a very common cause of security system faults and no-start conditions. While other issues can cause this message, replacing a faulty BCM with this Programmed GM Body Control Module is a frequent and effective solution.
What if I install it and a warning light comes on?
This typically indicates a sync procedure is needed. The most common is the Airbag (SDM) sync. This doesn’t mean the part is defective; it means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the other modules in the car, a step that requires a bi-directional scan tool.