Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck?
If you’re dealing with flickering lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security light that won’t turn off, you’re not alone. These frustrating and often unpredictable issues in a 1998 S10, Blazer, or Sonoma frequently point to a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central hub for your truck’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing problems. Instead of spending a fortune at the dealership for diagnostics and programming, get the definitive solution right here.
This is a direct-fit replacement Body Control Module, delivered to your door already programmed to your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We handle the complex part, loading the latest GM software onto the module before it ships. This means no extra tools, no expensive subscriptions, and no trip to the dealer for programming. You get a reliable part that’s ready for installation right out of the box, making this the most straightforward way to restore your truck’s proper function.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Haunted ’98 Blazer
A customer brought in a ’98 S10 Blazer with a list of complaints that sounded like the truck was possessed. The dome light would flicker randomly, the radio would shut off, and sometimes the PASSLOCK security light would stay on, causing a no-start condition. They had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. My initial scan showed several communication error codes. In my 20+ years of experience, a mix of unrelated body electrical faults almost always leads back to one component: the BCM. After confirming power and ground to the module were solid, we swapped in a pre-programmed BCM. The flickering stopped, the security system reset, and the truck started every time. This is a classic failure pattern for these vehicles, and a new 1998 S10 BCM is the surefire fix.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-working interior/exterior lights
- ✔ Power windows or door locks operating intermittently or not at all
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays illuminated, possibly causing a no-start
- ✔ Wipers, radio, or other accessories behaving unpredictably
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes related to communication loss with the BCM
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On most 1998 S10/S15/Sonoma and Blazer/Jimmy models, 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’s typically on the driver’s side (LH dash).
- ✔ 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 Module: Seat the new BCM into the mounting bracket and plug in the electrical connectors. You’ll hear a click as they lock into place.
- ✔ Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position and test all functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Information
While this module is programmed for a simple installation, some vehicles may require an additional step. Please be aware of the following:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light turns on after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is needed. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system and requires a professional-grade diagnostic tool. This is only necessary if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be required to ensure correct brake light operation.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Truck
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 09366803, 16264870, 16268395, 8093668030, and 8162683950 and is verified to fit the following vehicles:
- 1998 Chevrolet Blazer S10 / GMC Jimmy S15: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 16268395, 9366803, or 16264870
- 1998 Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma S15: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 16268395
- 1998 Oldsmobile Bravada: Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/o extended build date
- 1998 Isuzu Hombre: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
Frequently Asked Questions
1998 S10 BCM
Will this fix my PASSLOCK security issue?
A faulty BCM is a very common cause of PASSLOCK security system problems in these trucks. Replacing a failing often resolves these no-start or security light issues.