Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Vehicle?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all. A customer comes in with a 2011 Impala, and the dashboard is lit up like a Christmas tree one minute, then fine the next. The power locks have a mind of their own, and the radio sometimes refuses to turn on. These aren’t separate problems; they’re classic symptoms of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your car’s comfort and security features, and when it goes, it can cause a cascade of frustrating, hard-to-diagnose issues. This is where our pre-programmed Impala Body Control Module provides a reliable, straightforward fix.
Forget the expensive trip to the dealership and the hassle of getting a new module programmed. We take care of the hard part for you. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN after purchase, and we’ll flash this BCM with the latest GM-certified software specific to your car. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you hundreds in labor and programming fees. Plus, with our no-hassle policy, there’s no core charge—you can keep your old module.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Haunted Impala
I remember a 2012 Impala that had been to two other shops. The owner was fed up. The security light would flash randomly, preventing the car from starting, and the interior lights would flicker while driving. No one could find a consistent fault. After checking the basics, I hooked up my professional scan tool and saw multiple ‘U’ codes—communication errors between modules. This pointed directly to the BCM. The internal circuitry was failing, sending corrupt data across the network. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM just like this one, and every single issue vanished instantly. It’s a perfect example of how one component can be the root of so much electronic chaos.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM could be the culprit. A proper diagnosis is always recommended, but these are tell-tale signs I’ve seen hundreds of times in my shop.
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or dashboard lights flickering or staying on.
- ✔ The security system light is illuminated, and you have intermittent no-start conditions.
- ✔ False warnings appearing on the driver information center (e.g., “Service StabiliTrak”).
- ✔ Communication Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like U0100, U0140, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ Horn, wipers, or radio operating intermittently or not at all.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
For the confident DIYer, replacing the Impala Body Control Module is a manageable job. On most 2006-2013 Impalas, the BCM is located on the left (driver’s) side of the dashboard, often behind the lower trim panel near the steering column.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Access the Module: You may need to remove the lower dash panel or knee bolster to gain access. These are typically held in by a few screws or clips.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the 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 plug in all the electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Re-install any trim panels you removed. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—windows, locks, lights, radio, etc.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our VIN programming handles the critical setup, some GM vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure after BCM replacement. These can often be done with a high-end scan tool.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is needed to sync the new BCM with the airbag system. This is a security measure and requires a professional diagnostic tool.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be necessary to ensure brake lights and traction control function correctly.
Disclaimer: Procedures can vary slightly by exact year and model. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure an exact match.
Replaces 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
Fits a wide range of models including:
ACADIA 2007-2012
AVALANCHE 1500 2010
CAPRICE 2011-2013
CAPTIVA SPORT 2012
CTS 2008-2013
DTS 2006-2011
ENCLAVE 2008-2012
EQUINOX 2007-2009
ESCALADE / ESV / EXT 2010
EXPRESS / SAVANA VANS 2008-2012
G8 2008-2009
HUMMER H2 2008-2009
IMPALA 2006-2013
LUCERNE 2006-2011
MONTE CARLO 2006-2007
OUTLOOK 2007-2010
SRX 2007-2009
STS 2010
SUBURBAN 1500 2010
TAHOE 2010
TORRENT 2007-2009
TRAVERSE 2009-2012
VUE 2008-2010
YUKON / YUKON XL 1500 2010
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my car to a dealer for programming?
No. We program the module to your car’s specific VIN before shipping it to you. It arrives ready to be installed, saving you time and money.
How do I provide my VIN number?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your 17-digit VIN, and we will handle the rest.
Is there a core charge for this part?
Absolutely not. You are not required to send your old BCM back to us. You can keep it or dispose of it at your convenience.
Where is the BCM located on my 2009 Impala?
On the 2006-2013 Impala, the Body Control Module is typically found behind the driver’s side lower dashboard panel, near the steering column.
What if my airbag light turns on after I install it?
This is a normal security precaution on some GM vehicles. It means the new BCM needs to be synchronized with the airbag module (SDM). This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure using a professional-grade scan tool.
Will this fix my car’s problem for sure?
This BCM will fix issues directly caused by a faulty module. While the symptoms we’ve listed are very common, we always recommend a thorough diagnosis to confirm the BCM is the root cause before ordering.