If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your 2001 Oldsmobile Bravada or a similar GM truck/SUV, you know how frustrating it can be. One minute the power windows work, the next they don’t. The security light stays on, or the interior lights have a mind of their own. As a technician with over 20 years on the floor, I’ve seen these exact symptoms hundreds of times, and the culprit is almost always a failing Body Control Module (BCM). It’s the central command center for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features, and when it goes, chaos ensues.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take the hassle out of the repair by programming this 2001 Bravada Body Control Module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before we ship it. This means it arrives loaded with the latest GM factory software, ready for a straightforward installation. You get to skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you time and money. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we’ll handle the rest.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2001 GMC Jimmy—same platform as the Bravada—that came into the shop with a ghost problem. The owner complained of intermittent no-starts and flickering dash lights. He’d already replaced the battery and alternator. Diagnostics showed no clear engine codes, but the data stream was erratic. Probing the BCM connectors revealed inconsistent voltage outputs to the security and lighting circuits. It wasn’t a wiring issue; the BCM’s internal logic was failing under load. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the gremlins were gone for good. This is the definitive fix for those hard-to-diagnose electrical issues.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights not working correctly or staying on.
- ✔ Vehicle security system issues, including a persistent anti-theft light or no-start condition.
- ✔ Inconsistent or non-working radio and climate controls.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss (U-codes) or body circuits (B-codes).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the Module: On the 2001 Bravada, S10, and Jimmy, the BCM is typically located behind the center of the dashboard. On full-size trucks and SUVs, it’s usually on the driver’s side, to the left of the steering column.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the old BCM and remove it from the vehicle.
- ✔ Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely plug in all the electrical connectors.
- ✔ Power Up: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Final Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions (lights, locks, windows, etc.). Note the post-installation procedures below, as they may be required.
Important Post-Installation Steps
In some cases, your vehicle may require additional recalibration after the BCM is installed. These procedures typically require a professional scan tool.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is needed to sync the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary on certain models.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified professional if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 19208539, 9371990, and 9385236. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- 2001 ASTRO (LH dash)
- 2001 BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 (center dash)
- 2001 BRAVADA (center dash)
- 2001 S10/S15/SONOMA (center dash)
- 2001 SAFARI (GMC) (LH dash)
- 2000 SIERRA 1500 PICKUP (LH dash)
- 2000 SIERRA 2500 PICKUP (LH dash)
- 2000 SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP (LH dash)
- 2000 SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP (LH dash)
- 2000 SUBURBAN 1500 (LH dash)
- 2000 SUBURBAN 2500 (LH dash)
- 2000 TAHOE (LH dash)
- 2000 YUKON (exc. Denali) (LH dash)
- 2000 YUKON XL 1500 (LH dash)
- 2000 YUKON XL 2500 (LH dash)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipping. We use the VIN you provide to load the latest GM software, so it’s ready to install right out of the box.
Is there a core charge or do I have to send my old part back?
There is absolutely no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module.
What tools are needed for the post-installation procedures?
The Airbag System Sync and Brake Pedal Position Relearn procedures require a high-level, bi-directional diagnostic scan tool, like a GM Tech 2 or equivalent professional-grade scanner. Most basic code readers cannot perform these functions.
What happens if the airbag light comes on after I install this?
This is a known possibility. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag module (SDM). A mechanic with the proper scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to resolve this.
Will this 2001 Bravada Body Control Module fix a no-start problem?
It can. The BCM is a key part of the Passlock/Passkey anti-theft system. If the BCM is faulty, it can prevent the vehicle from starting. If your ‘Security’ or ‘Theft’ light is on, a failing BCM is a very likely cause.