End the Electrical Gremlins in Your Buick Lucerne
Is your 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne acting like it’s haunted? Flickering lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security system that randomly prevents you from starting the car are all classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your car’s body electronics, when the BCM starts to go, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and unpredictable issues. I’ve spent two decades under the dash of cars just like yours, and I can tell you that swapping the BCM is often the definitive fix for these bizarre electrical problems.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take the hassle and high cost out of the repair by programming this BCM specifically to your Lucerne’s VIN before we ship it. This means it arrives with the latest GM software updates, ready for installation. You get to skip the expensive dealership appointment for programming, saving you time and money. This is the same reliable process we use in the shop to get our customers back on the road with confidence.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Finicky Lucerne
A customer brought in a 2009 Lucerne with a laundry list of complaints: the radio would cut out, the driver’s side window wouldn’t go down, and the dash lights would flicker intermittently. They’d already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw multiple U-codes (communication errors) pointing to the BCM. A quick inspection of the BCM, located on the right side of the dash, revealed the tell-tale signs of water intrusion from a minor windshield leak. The corrosion on the board was causing short circuits, creating the ghost-like symptoms. Installing a VIN-programmed 2006-2011 Lucerne BCM was the one-shot fix that restored all functions perfectly.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM in Your Buick
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM is the likely culprit. A failing module can also trigger diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like U0140, U0155, or B1001.
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operate erratically or not at all.
- ✔ The anti-theft system engages incorrectly, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lamps stay on or won’t turn on.
- ✔ The horn sounds randomly or doesn’t work when pressed.
- ✔ False warnings appear on the driver information center (e.g., “Service Theft System”).
- ✔ Wipers operate on their own or at the wrong speed.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your pre-programmed BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. While specific steps can vary slightly, here is a general guide for a 2006-2011 Lucerne.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before starting work.
- Locate the BCM: On the Buick Lucerne, the BCM is typically located behind the glove box or on the right side of the center console area, accessible after removing the passenger-side lower dash panel.
- 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: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Final Steps: Start the vehicle. In some cases, an airbag light may appear or brake functions may need recalibration. Please see the post-installation procedures below. A Brake Pedal Position Relearn or Airbag System Sync may be required using a capable scan tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 20864768 and is interchangeable with a wide range of other GM part numbers. We guarantee compatibility for the following models, but please verify your original part number is on our list to ensure a perfect match. This module fits many more vehicles than listed here.
LUCERNE 06-11 Body Control (BCM); (right side dash)
It also replaces modules in these vehicles (and more):
ACADIA 07-12, AVALANCHE 1500 10, CAPRICE 11-13, CAPTIVA SPORT 12, CTS 08-13, DTS 06-11, ENCLAVE 08-12, EQUINOX 07-09, ESCALADE 10, EXPRESS VANS 08-12, G8 08-09, HUMMER H2 08-09, IMPALA 06-13, MONTE CARLO 06-07, OUTLOOK 07-10, SAVANA VANS 08-12, SRX 07-09, STS 10, SUBURBAN 1500 10, TAHOE 10, TORRENT 07-09, TRAVERSE 09-12, VUE 08-10, YUKON 10.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship the module until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for it to function in your car.
Why is my airbag light on after installation?
This is a normal possibility. The new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag’s computer (SDM). A professional scan tool is required to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to sync the systems and turn off the light.
What is a Brake Pedal Position Relearn?
The BCM uses data from the brake pedal position sensor for features like brake lights and traction control. After installing a new BCM, this sensor may need to be recalibrated. This is a simple procedure that can be done with a compatible bi-directional scan tool.
Do I need to return my old BCM?
No. We do not require you to send back your original module. There is no core charge associated with this purchase, so you can keep your old part.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
The physical replacement is straightforward for most DIYers with basic tools. The main challenge can be the post-installation electronic relearn procedures (like for the airbag or brake sensor) which may require a professional-grade scan tool. Many local shops can perform these relearns for a small fee if you don’t have the tool.