Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck or Van?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all. A customer comes in with a Silverado or Express van, and the complaint list is a mile long: the dome light won’t turn off, the power windows work intermittently, the radio acts possessed, and the security light is flashing. These aren’t separate problems; they’re classic symptoms of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the electronic brain for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features, and when it starts to go, it can make your reliable truck feel unpredictable and frustrating.
This isn’t just an inconvenience; a faulty BCM can affect security systems and even exterior lighting, creating a potential safety issue. Instead of paying for hours of diagnostic time at a shop or buying a blank module that requires an expensive trip to the dealer for programming, we offer a better solution. This is a direct-fit, reliable 2003 – 2007 GM BCM that we program to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it ships. It arrives ready for installation, loaded with the latest GM software updates to ensure peak performance and reliability.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2005 Sierra 2500 that came into my bay. The owner was convinced he had a bad battery or alternator because his dash lights would flicker and sometimes the truck would refuse to start, showing a ‘Security’ warning. We tested the charging system, and it was perfect. A scan revealed a slew of U-codes (communication loss) pointing to the BCM. The internal circuitry was failing, causing data corruption on the network. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM just like this one, and every single phantom electrical issue vanished. It’s a fix I’ve performed hundreds of times, turning a complex problem into a straightforward repair.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior parking lights staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light flashing, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Horn sounding unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Intermittent operation of the radio or instrument cluster gauges.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
- ✔ False warnings on the driver information center (e.g., ‘Door Ajar’).
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow all modules to power down completely.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On most Silverado and Sierra pickups, the BCM is located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column. On Express and Savana vans, it’s typically found behind the center dash trim.
- ✔ Remove Connectors: Carefully unplug the multiple wiring harnesses connected to the old BCM. The connectors have release tabs that need to be depressed. Do not force them.
- ✔ Swap the Module: Unbolt or unclip the old BCM from its mounting bracket. Install the new, pre-programmed module in its place and secure it.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Plug all the wiring harnesses firmly back into the new BCM. You should hear a click as they lock into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Relearns: Start the vehicle. Check for any warning lights. As noted below, you may need a professional scan tool to perform an ‘Airbag System Sync’ or ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn’ if those specific warning lights appear.
Important Notes for a Smooth Installation
This 2003 – 2007 GM BCM is designed for a simple installation, but GM vehicles of this era have integrated systems. After installation, you may need to perform one of the following procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag light is on after you install the new BCM, it’s because the BCM and the airbag module (SDM) need to be electronically re-introduced. A professional scan tool is required to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ function to clear this light.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, the BCM needs to relearn the position of the brake pedal sensor. If your brake lights or traction control system act up, this recalibration procedure will be necessary.
Our Promise: We make this process easy. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we handle the programming. You get a part that’s ready to go, with no core charge and no need to send your old part back.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 15198115, 15167329, 15194169, 15747545, 15136224, 15116065, 15136876, and 10367689. It is verified to fit the following models:
CHEVROLET EXPRESS/GMC SAVANA VANS 1500/2500/3500 2003-2007 (Specific options apply)
CHEVROLET SILVERADO/GMC SIERRA PICKUPS 1500/2500/3500 2003-2007 (Classic body style for 2007, excludes Crew Cab models, specific transmission options apply)
Please review the detailed fitment list at the top of the page to confirm compatibility with your exact year, model, and options.
Frequently Asked Questions about this 2003 – 2007 GM BCM
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) allows us to program the BCM with the exact software and settings your truck or van had from the factory. This ensures all your specific options (like power seats, keyless entry, etc.) work correctly without a trip to the dealer.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
For most functions, yes. The module is programmed to your vehicle, so the main systems will work upon installation. However, as with any BCM replacement on these vehicles, you may need a professional scan tool to sync the airbag system or perform a brake sensor relearn if those specific warning lights appear.
Do I need to return my old BCM?
No. We do not require you to send back your original part. There is no core charge associated with this purchase, saving you time and return shipping costs.
Will this fix my ‘Security’ light and no-start problem?
A faulty BCM is a very common cause of security system issues in these GM vehicles. By programming this module to your VIN, the security information is correctly loaded, which typically resolves these no-start conditions.
What tools do I need for the installation?
Basic hand tools are all you’ll need for the physical replacement, typically a socket set and a trim removal tool. For the potential post-installation procedures (airbag sync/brake relearn), a bi-directional professional diagnostic tool is required.