Restore Your Impala’s Electrical System with a Reliable, Pre-Programmed BCM
Are you dealing with frustrating and unpredictable electrical problems in your 2006-2013 Chevy Impala? Issues like flickering interior lights, power windows with a mind of their own, a security light that prevents your car from starting, or dashboard warning lights that won’t go away are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it malfunctions, it can cause a cascade of confusing issues. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can impact your car’s safety and reliability.
We offer a straightforward and dependable solution. This Body Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for your vehicle, and best of all, we program it specifically to your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This means you get a module loaded with the latest GM software updates that’s ready for installation right out of the box, saving you from a costly trip to the dealership and the need for expensive programming tools. Get your Impala back to operating the way it should with this dependable 2006-2013 Impala BCM.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Haunted Impala
A customer brought in a 2011 Impala with a list of symptoms that sounded like something out of a ghost story. The radio would change stations randomly, the dome light would flicker while driving, and worst of all, the car would occasionally refuse to start, with the security light flashing on the dash. A quick scan showed a U0140 code—Lost Communication with the Body Control Module. In my 20+ years of experience, these intermittent communication errors on GM platforms almost always point back to an internal BCM failure, often due to failing solder joints or internal corrosion. We replaced it with a VIN-programmed unit like this one, and all the spooky electrical gremlins vanished. It’s a fix I’ve performed hundreds of times, and it restores the car’s functionality and the owner’s peace of mind.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM could be the culprit. A professional diagnosis is always recommended, but these are strong indicators:
- ✔ Erratic power windows, door locks, or interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security system light is on, and the engine won’t crank or start.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like Airbag or ABS) appearing for no reason.
- ✔ Communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), such as U0140, U0155, or various B-codes.
- ✔ Wipers operating intermittently or not parking in the correct position.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your new 2006-2013 Impala BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. For the 2006-2013 Impala, the BCM is typically located on the left (driver’s) side of the dash, often behind the lower dash panel near the steering column.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow the system’s capacitors to discharge.
- Access the Module: You will likely need to remove the lower dash panel beneath the steering wheel to gain access to the BCM. It’s usually held in place by a few screws or clips.
- Identify the BCM: Locate the module. It will be a plastic box with several large multi-pin electrical connectors plugged into it.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully disconnect all electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that must be depressed to release them. Once disconnected, remove any bolts or clips holding the BCM in its bracket and take out the old module.
- Install the New BCM: Place your new, pre-programmed BCM into the mounting bracket and secure it. Reconnect all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reassemble and Reconnect: Reinstall the lower dash panel. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn Procedures: Start the vehicle. Note that some post-installation steps, like an airbag system sync or brake pedal position relearn, may be necessary. See the details below.
Important Post-Installation Information
While this 2006-2013 Impala BCM comes programmed to your VIN, some vehicle systems may need to be re-synced after the new module is installed. This is a normal part of the process.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is required. This must be done with a professional-grade diagnostic scan tool to ensure the safety system is fully operational.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be needed to restore proper brake light and traction control functionality. This also typically requires a capable scan tool.
- No Core Charge: You are not required to send your old module back to us. There is no core charge associated with this purchase.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems and procedures can vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any step of the process.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers. Please verify your vehicle is on this list and that the part number matches one of the following: 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to program this BCM?
Do I need to program this BCM?
No. We handle the programming for you before shipping. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during or after checkout, and we will flash the module with the latest GM software specific to your car.
What exactly does a Body Control Module do?
The BCM acts as the central computer for your car’s body-related electronic accessories. It controls functions like the power windows, power locks, interior and exterior lighting, wipers, security system, and more. When it fails, these systems can behave erratically.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
For the most part, yes. The main programming is done, so it’s a direct physical replacement. However, as noted above, some vehicles may require a simple ‘relearn’ or ‘sync’ procedure for the airbag or brake systems using a professional scan tool to ensure everything communicates correctly.
Will this fix my car’s ‘Service Airbag’ light?
If the light is on due to a faulty BCM, this part will resolve the root cause. However, after installation, the airbag system (SDM) must be synced with the new BCM using a scan tool to clear the light. If the light is on for another reason (e.g., a bad sensor), this part will not fix that separate issue.
Do I have to return my old BCM?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module.