Restore Your GM Truck’s Electronics and Get Back to Work
Are you chasing electrical gremlins in your 2003-2007 GM truck or van? Flickering lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security light that won’t turn off can be maddening. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these exact issues hundreds of times. The culprit is almost always a failing Body Control Module (BCM), the central command center for your vehicle’s comfort and security features. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect your vehicle’s safety and reliability. Stop throwing parts at the problem and get the definitive solution.
This replacement GM Body Control Module is the answer. We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the equation. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, and our experts will program the module with the latest official GM software specifically for your truck or van. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you hundreds in dealership programming fees and diagnostic time.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Silverado with a Ghost
A customer brought in an ’05 Silverado 2500 with a truly bizarre issue. The radio would turn on and off randomly, the driver’s power window would only work intermittently, and the dome light would sometimes stay on, draining the battery. He’d already replaced the battery and the window switch. After checking the grounds and wiring harnesses, my scan tool showed multiple U-codes (communication errors) pointing to the BCM. A failing GM Body Control Module can act like a faulty switchboard, sending scrambled signals across the vehicle’s network. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM, and every single issue was resolved instantly. It’s a classic failure mode for these otherwise reliable trucks.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A failing BCM can cause a wide range of confusing electrical problems. Here are the most common signs I’ve diagnosed in my shop:
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on, flickering, or not turning on.
- ✔ The security system light is illuminated, or the vehicle won’t start due to a false theft-deterrent activation.
- ✔ The horn honks unexpectedly or doesn’t work.
- ✔ The instrument cluster displays strange warnings or gauges behave erratically.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss, such as U0140, U0155, or U0164.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Since we program it beforehand, you skip the most complicated step. The typical location is under the driver’s side dashboard near the steering column on trucks, or in the center dash area on vans.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electronics.
- Locate the BCM: On Silverado/Sierra models, it’s typically a black box with multiple large connectors located under the driver’s side of the dashboard. On Savana/Express vans, it’s usually behind the center dash trim.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed BCM into place and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery & Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all body functions—windows, locks, lights, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Steps
While our programming handles the heavy lifting, some GM vehicles may require one of the following procedures to fully sync the new module. This is normal and ensures all systems communicate correctly.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag module.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be required to ensure correct brake light and traction control operation.
- No Core Charge: You are not required to return your old module. There is no core charge or deposit associated with this purchase.
Disclaimer: Procedures can vary by exact year and model. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure.
Will This Fit My Truck or Van?
This module is a direct replacement for part number 15136876 and is interchangeable with part numbers 15167329, 15194169, 15747545, 15136224, 15116065, 15198115, and 10367689. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500 (2003-2007, see fitment data for specific options)
- GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500 (2003-2007, see fitment data for specific options)
- Chevrolet Express 1500/2500/3500 Van (2003-2007, see fitment data for specific options)
- GMC Savana 1500/2500/3500 Van (2003-2007, see fitment data for specific options)
- Chevrolet SSR (2003-2006)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the BCM with the exact software and settings your truck or van had when it left the factory, plus any available GM updates. This ensures perfect compatibility and function without a trip to the dealer.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
For most vehicles, yes. Because we pre-program it, you can install it and restore function immediately. However, as noted, some vehicles may require an additional relearn procedure for the airbag or brake systems, which requires a professional scan tool.
What if my original part number is not 15136876?
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 15167329, 15194169, 15747545, and more, as listed in the description. As long as your vehicle is listed in our compatibility chart, this module will work.
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No. We do not require a core return for this part. You can keep your old module, which saves you the time, cost, and hassle of shipping it back.
Will this fix a ‘Service 4WD’ message?
While a failing BCM can cause a variety of issues, the ‘Service 4WD’ message is more commonly related to the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM) or the encoder motor. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis before replacing parts.