Restore Full Electrical Function to Your 2006-2013 Impala
Are you chasing electrical gremlins in your Chevy Impala? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, door locks with a mind of their own, or a security light that prevents your car from starting are all classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your car’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated issues. I’ve seen it hundreds of times in my 20+ years as a technician: a perfectly good car rendered unreliable by one failing module.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We take a genuine GM Body Control Module and flash it with the latest official software, programmed specifically to your vehicle’s VIN. This means you get a component that is ready for installation right out of the box, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. Restore the reliable performance you expect from your Impala with a BCM that communicates flawlessly with your vehicle’s other systems.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
Just last month, a 2011 Impala was towed to my shop. The owner was frustrated because the car would intermittently fail to start, the radio would cut out, and the power locks were unresponsive. He had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. His scan tool showed a handful of U-codes (communication errors), pointing to a network problem. After verifying the main power and ground connections to the BCM, it was clear the module itself was failing internally. We installed one of our VIN-programmed BCMs, performed the security relearn, and all the bizarre electrical issues were gone. It’s a common failure, and this part is the definitive fix.
Is Your Impala Showing These Symptoms?
A failing BCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your BCM is the likely culprit. This is especially true if you’re seeing communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like U0140, U0155, or B1001.
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Horn honks randomly or doesn’t work at all.
- ✔ Wipers operate incorrectly or won’t turn off.
- ✔ False warnings on the instrument cluster (e.g., ‘Door Ajar’ light).
- ✔ Inconsistent A/C compressor clutch engagement.
- ✔ Communication loss with other vehicle modules.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the BCM on your Impala is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. The BCM is typically located on the left (driver’s) side of the dashboard, near the steering column.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before beginning work.
- Locate the BCM: On most 2006-2013 Impalas, you’ll find the BCM attached to a bracket to the left of the steering column, often behind the lower dash panel.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that must 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: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn Procedures: You MUST perform a security relearn procedure (often called a ‘Passlock’ or ‘PK3’ relearn). Additionally, follow the critical steps below for airbag and brake system integrity.
Important: Post-Installation Procedures REQUIRED
After installing your new 2006-2013 Impala BCM, completing these final steps is critical for safety and full functionality. Failure to do so can leave warning lights on and compromise vehicle systems.
- Airbag System Reset: The Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) or airbag warning light will likely be on. You must use a compatible bi-directional scan tool to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This re-establishes communication between the new BCM and the airbag module.
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles require the Brake Pedal Position Sensor to be recalibrated after BCM replacement. This ensures the brake lights and stability control systems function correctly. This also requires a capable diagnostic tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 25847588 and the following interchangeable 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, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084. It is guaranteed to fit the following models:
- Chevrolet Impala: 2006-2013
- Chevrolet Monte Carlo: 2006-2007
- And many other GM vehicles including: Acadia, Avalanche, Caprice, Captiva Sport, CTS, DTS, Enclave, Equinox, Escalade, Express Van, G8, Hummer H2, Lucerne, Outlook, Savana Van, SRX, STS, Suburban, Tahoe, Torrent, Traverse, Vue, Yukon. Please verify your part number to ensure compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take this BCM to a dealer for programming?
No. The main benefit of our service is that we program the BCM to your car’s specific VIN before we ship it. This saves you the time, hassle, and expense of a dealership visit. You will still need to perform the security and other relearn procedures after installation.
What is a VIN and why do you need it?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-digit code for your car. It contains information about your vehicle’s specific options and configuration. Providing your VIN allows us to load the exact correct software for your car, ensuring all features work as intended.
Where is the BCM located on my 2008 Chevy Impala?
On the 2006-2013 Impala, the Body Control Module is located inside the cabin, on the driver’s side. It’s typically mounted to a bracket up and to the left of the steering column, accessible by removing the lower dash knee bolster panel.
Will this fix the ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ message?
Yes, a faulty BCM is a very common cause of this message and the associated no-start condition in GM vehicles. Replacing it with this pre-programmed unit and performing the security relearn procedure is the correct repair for this issue.
What happens if I install this without doing the relearn procedures?
If you skip the relearn procedures, your vehicle likely will not start due to the anti-theft system. Furthermore, critical safety systems like the airbags may be disabled, and you will have warning lights on your dash. These steps are not optional.