Restore Full Electrical Function to Your GM Truck
If you’re dealing with the frustrating and unpredictable electrical gremlins common in a 1998 Chevy Blazer, GMC Jimmy, or S10, your Body Control Module (BCM) is the likely culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing BCM can turn a reliable truck into a source of constant headaches. This module is the central command for your vehicle’s interior electronics—from power windows and locks to the security system and interior lighting. When it fails, chaos ensues. This isn’t just an inconvenience; a faulty BCM can affect the Passlock security system, potentially leaving you stranded.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution. This BCM is a direct-fit replacement, but with a crucial advantage: it arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. We flash it with the latest official GM software updates, ensuring seamless communication with your truck’s other modules and restoring original performance. You get to skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you time and money.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Intermittent No-Start
A customer brought in his ’98 GMC Jimmy S15, frustrated with an intermittent no-start condition. The engine would crank but never fire up, and the ‘Security’ light would flash on the dash. He had already replaced the battery and checked the fuel pump. After hooking up my diagnostic tool, I found no communication codes from the PCM, but the BCM was acting erratically. These older GM Passlock systems rely on a perfect handshake between the ignition cylinder, BCM, and PCM. In my shop, I’ve traced this exact symptom to a failing 1998 Blazer S10 BCM over a dozen times. The internal logic fails, preventing it from sending the correct ‘fuel enable’ signal. Swapping in a VIN-programmed BCM resolved the issue instantly, and the truck has been reliable ever since.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light is illuminated or flashing, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Wipers operating intermittently or not parking in the correct position.
- ✔ Radio or climate control display flickering or going blank.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes related to communication loss (U-codes) or internal BCM faults.
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
Installing your new BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The key is taking your time and being gentle with the plastic dash components.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes before starting work.
- Locate the BCM: On most 1998 S-series trucks (Blazer, Jimmy, Sonoma), the BCM is located behind the passenger side of the center dash, often near the glove box. On the Isuzu Hombre, it’s typically on the driver’s side (LH dash).
- Access the Module: You will likely need to remove the glove box or a lower dash panel to gain clear access to the BCM.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the old BCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Power Up and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position (without starting) and test all body functions: windows, locks, wipers, lights, and radio.
Important Post-Installation Information
Because this 1998 Blazer S10 BCM is programmed to your VIN, most functions should work immediately. However, in some cases, additional steps may be required:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag module.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a recalibration of the brake pedal position sensor might be necessary to ensure correct brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems can vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any procedure.
Will This Fit My Truck?
This module is a guaranteed fit for the following vehicles and part numbers. Please match your original part number or vehicle to this list.
Compatible Part Numbers: 09366803, 16264870, 16268395, 8093668030, 8162683950
Vehicle Fitment:
- 1998 BLAZER S10 / JIMMY S15: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 16268395, 9366803, or 16264870
- 1998 BRAVADA: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/o extended build date
- 1998 ISUZU HOMBRE: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- 1998 S10 / S15 / SONOMA: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 16268395
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship your order until we receive this information, as the programming is specific to your truck.
Is this BCM difficult to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, it’s a very manageable task. The main challenge is accessing the module behind the dashboard. No special programming tools are required on your end, which is the primary benefit of our service.
What if my airbag light is on after I install it?
This can happen occasionally. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically introduced to the airbag system (SDM). This procedure, called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’, must be done with a professional-grade scan tool.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No. This purchase requires no core return. You can keep your original module.
Will this fix my truck’s security light and no-start problem?
A failing BCM is the most common cause of Passlock security system issues on these models. While we can’t guarantee a fix for every vehicle without a full diagnosis, if your symptoms match a faulty BCM, this part is the correct and most reliable solution.