Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck?
If your 2002 GMC Sierra or a similar GM vehicle is acting possessed—with flickering lights, dead gauges, erratic power windows, or a security light that won’t quit—you’re not alone. These frustrating and unpredictable issues often point to a single culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your vehicle’s body electronics, when the BCM goes bad, it can make your reliable truck feel like a total mystery. Stop throwing parts at the problem and get the definitive fix.
This is a direct-replacement Body Control Module, part number 15081796, for a wide range of GM trucks and vans. The best part? We take the guesswork and expensive dealership trips out of the equation. Before we ship it, our technicians will program the module with the latest GM software, specifically matched to your vehicle using your VIN. This ensures a smoother installation and restores factory functionality right out of the box. You get a reliable part, programmed and ready to install, without the hassle.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2002 Silverado 2500 that came into the shop with a complaint of the radio and interior lights cutting out intermittently. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. A quick scan showed a slew of U-codes (communication errors) pointing to the BCM. On these specific GMT800 platforms, water intrusion from a leaky windshield seal is a common killer of the BCM, which sits right under the dash. We confirmed corrosion on the old unit’s pins. Installing a VIN-programmed 2002 Sierra BCM like this one not only solved the random electrical faults but also restored proper communication between all the vehicle’s modules, clearing the codes for good.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Gauges on the instrument cluster behaving erratically or not working at all.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on, potentially causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Headlights, taillights, or interior dome lights flickering or failing to operate correctly.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes related to module communication (e.g., U0140, U0155) or internal BCM faults.
- ✔ The radio or climate control system turns on and off by itself.
A Straightforward Guide to BCM Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On most compatible trucks and SUVs (like the Sierra, Silverado, Tahoe), the BCM is located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column. On vans (Astro, Safari), it’s often behind the center dash panel.
- ✔ 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 from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Securely plug in all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it securely.
- ✔ Perform Post-Install Procedures: Start the vehicle. As noted below, some vehicles may require additional steps like an airbag system sync or a brake pedal position relearn, which may require a professional scan tool.
Important Post-Installation Steps
While this BCM is programmed for your VIN, your vehicle’s other modules may need to re-sync with the new component. Please be aware of the following potential procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a compatible high-level scan tool. This is a security measure to ensure the systems communicate correctly.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be needed to ensure accurate brake light operation and to prevent issues with the traction control system.
Disclaimer: We are committed to providing a seamless solution. However, due to vehicle variations, we always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 15063578, 15081796, 15095334, 19208537, DKAK, and DPNU. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles:
- Cadillac Escalade: 2002 (4×2)
- Chevrolet Avalanche 1500: 2002 (4×2)
- Chevrolet Astro Van: 2002-2005
- Chevrolet Blazer S10: 2002-2005
- Chevrolet S10 Pickup: 2002-2004
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500 Pickup: 2002
- Chevrolet Suburban 1500/2500: 2002
- Chevrolet Tahoe: 2002 (4×2)
- GMC Jimmy S15: 2002-2005
- GMC Safari Van: 2002-2005
- GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500/Denali Pickup: 2002
- GMC Sonoma S15: 2002-2004
- GMC Yukon & Yukon XL 1500/2500: 2002
Plus, there is NO CORE CHARGE. You can keep your old part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to provide my VIN?
Yes, providing your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. We use it to load the correct, vehicle-specific software from GM onto your BCM. This step is crucial for ensuring compatibility and proper function of all your vehicle’s electronic features.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
For the most part, yes. The module is physically plug-and-play. Because it comes pre-programmed to your VIN, you avoid the need for dealer-level programming. However, as mentioned, some vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure for the airbag or brake systems, which sometimes requires a professional scan tool.
Will this fix my security light issue?
A faulty BCM is a very common cause of a persistent security light and no-start problems in these GM vehicles. Replacing the BCM with a correctly programmed unit resolves this issue in the vast majority of cases.
What if my original part number is not 15081796?
Please check if your original module’s part number is on our interchange list: 15063578, 15095334, 19208537, DKAK, or DPNU. If it matches one of these, this part is the correct replacement for your vehicle.
Do I have to send my old BCM back?
No. This product comes with no core charge. You are not required to return your original module, saving you time and return shipping costs.