If you’re dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala, you’re not alone. Flickering dashboard lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security system that randomly prevents your car from starting are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the nerve center for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features, when the BCM goes down, it can feel like the whole car is falling apart. I’ve seen it hundreds of times in my 20+ years of diagnostics—a simple component causing maximum frustration.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We take the guesswork and the expensive dealership trip out of the equation. Before we ship this BCM, our technicians will program it with the latest official GM software, specifically matched to your car’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This ensures that when it arrives, it’s ready to integrate seamlessly with your Impala’s existing systems. You get a reliable fix that restores factory functionality without the need for specialized, costly programming tools.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2011 Impala with a complaint that stumped two other shops: the interior lights would stay on, draining the battery overnight, and the radio would randomly shut off. There were no check engine lights, just a slew of communication (U-series) fault codes. After tracing the wiring, we isolated the issue to the BCM. These modules, often located under the dash, can be susceptible to moisture from a leaky windshield cowl or simple internal electronic failure over time. By installing a pre-programmed 2006-2013 Impala BCM, we resolved all the bizarre electrical gremlins in under an hour, saving the customer from what they thought would be a massive repair bill.
Common Signs of a Failing GM Body Control Module
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your BCM needs attention:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not working at all.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system light is illuminated, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Inaccurate or dead gauges on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ The horn sounding unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), such as U0140, U0155, or other U-series codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Replacing the BCM on your Impala is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. While the exact location can vary slightly by model year, it’s typically found on the driver’s side, behind the lower dashboard panel.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow the systems to fully discharge.
- Access the Module: Remove the necessary trim panels under the driver’s side dashboard to gain clear access to the BCM.
- 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 old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same position as the old one. Securely plug in all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position (without starting the engine) and test your lights, locks, and windows to confirm proper operation.
Important Post-Installation Steps
Because this 2006-2013 Impala BCM is already programmed, most functions should work immediately. However, depending on your vehicle’s specific configuration, a couple of quick relearn procedures may be needed:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is on after installation, a professional scan tool is required to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary to ensure brake lights and traction control work correctly. This can also be done with a capable bidirectional scan tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your part number against our cross-reference list. This part is compatible with the following models and part numbers:
Replaces Part Numbers: 10382479, 15093910, 15276271, 15299986, 15819552, 15828601, 15837419, 15872388, 15872421, 15880684, 15921352, 15921353, 15948438, 15948439, 20815898, 20839063, 20864767, 20864768, 20921435, 20921436, 20935349, 22860591, 25826124, 25826125, 25847588, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084
AVALANCHE 1500 10
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12
CTS 08-13
DTS 06-11
ENCLAVE 08-12
EQUINOX 07-09
ESCALADE 10
ESCALADE ESV 10
ESCALADE EXT 10
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-12
G8 08-09
HUMMER H2 08-09
IMPALA 06-13
LUCERNE 06-11
MONTE CARLO 06-07
OUTLOOK 07-10
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 3500 VAN 08-12
SRX 07-09
STS 10
SUBURBAN 1500 10
TAHOE 10
TORRENT 07-09
TRAVERSE 09-12
VUE 08-10
YUKON 10
YUKON XL 1500 10
Disclaimer: Fitment can vary based on specific options. Always match your original part number. If you’re unsure, send us your VIN and we’ll confirm compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this BCM programmed by a dealer?
No. The main benefit of our service is that we program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. It arrives ready for installation, saving you the time and expense of a dealership visit.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit VIN. You can typically add it as a note during checkout or send it to us in a message referencing your order number. We cannot ship the part until we have your VIN.
What is a core charge?
There is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old BCM without needing to send it back to us.
Where is the BCM located on my 2008 Impala?
On the 2006-2013 Impala, the Body Control Module is typically located behind the dashboard on the driver’s side, often near the steering column or to the left of it.
What if my airbag light comes on after I install it?
This can happen occasionally. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag’s computer (SDM). A repair shop with a professional-grade scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ function to resolve this.