Restore Control and End Electrical Headaches in Your GM Truck
If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your 1998 S-10, Jimmy, or Bravada, you’re not alone. I’ve spent countless hours in the shop tracing wires for flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, and frustrating no-start conditions, only to find the Body Control Module (BCM) was the culprit. The BCM is the central command for your truck’s comfort and convenience features. When it fails, it can feel like your vehicle has a mind of its own. This isn’t just an annoyance; a faulty BCM can compromise your vehicle’s security system and even affect critical components like brake lights.
This replacement Body Control Module is the straightforward, reliable solution you need. We take the biggest hurdle out of the equation: programming. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash this module with the latest GM software specific to your truck. It arrives at your door ready to install, saving you a costly trip to the dealership and the hassle of specialized tools. This is a direct-fit replacement for a 1998 Blazer S10 BCM, designed to restore function and peace of mind.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Phantom Battery Drain
A customer brought in his ’98 Jimmy S15, frustrated with a battery that died every two days. He’d already replaced the battery and alternator. We performed a parasitic draw test and found a significant drain. After pulling fuses one by one, the draw disappeared when we pulled the BCM fuse. The BCM’s internal circuits were failing, keeping the interior lights and other modules partially active even when the truck was off. Installing a VIN-programmed BCM like this one not only fixed the battery drain but also resolved a quirky power lock issue he thought was unrelated. It’s a perfect example of how one central component can cause a cascade of seemingly random problems.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-working power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light flashing, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Intermittent dashboard warning lights with no other apparent cause.
- ✔ Horn honking randomly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Inconsistent operation of the radio or climate controls.
A Straightforward Guide to BCM Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On most 1998 S-series trucks, the BCM is located in the center of the dashboard, often behind the glove box or a lower dash panel. On the Isuzu Hombre, it may be on the driver’s side (LH dash).
- ✔ Remove Trim Panels: Carefully remove any plastic trim or panels necessary to access the module. Keep track of your screws.
- ✔ Unplug and Unbolt: Disconnect the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have release tabs that need to be pressed. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New BCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in place, securely tightening the bolts. Reconnect all electrical harnesses until they click.
- ✔ Post-Installation Checks: Reconnect the battery. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—windows, locks, lights, and radio. Start the vehicle.
- ✔ Address Warning Lights: If the airbag light is on, an ‘Airbag System Sync’ procedure is needed. If brake functions seem off, a ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn’ may be required. Both procedures require a professional scan tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a guaranteed fit for the following vehicles, replacing part numbers 09366803, 16264870, 16268395, 8093668030, and 8162683950. Please verify your vehicle and options below.
- 1998 BLAZER S10 / JIMMY S15: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/ 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), w/ ID 16268395
There is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module, eliminating the hassle and expense of a core return.
Do I need to program this 1998 Blazer S10 BCM?
Do I need to program this 1998 Blazer S10 BCM?
No. This BCM comes pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. Just provide your VIN at checkout, and it will arrive ready for installation, saving you a trip to the dealer.
What is a VIN and where do I find it?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-digit code for your truck. You can find it on the driver’s side of the dashboard (viewable through the windshield), on your vehicle’s registration, or on your insurance card.
What if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
In some cases, the new BCM needs to be synced with the airbag system (SDM). This is a simple procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ that must be performed by a mechanic with a professional-grade diagnostic tool.
Is there a core charge?
No, there is absolutely no core charge. You are not required to send your old BCM back to us, which saves you time and money.
Will this fix my ‘No Start’ problem?
It can. The BCM controls the Passlock anti-theft system on these trucks. If the BCM is faulty, it can prevent the vehicle from starting. If your ‘Security’ light is flashing, a bad BCM is a very likely cause.