Restore Your Van’s Brain and End Electrical Chaos
Is your Chevrolet Express 1500 acting possessed? One minute the power locks don’t work, the next the radio is acting up, and you’re seeing warning lights on the dash that make no sense. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I can tell you these aren’t random glitches—they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your van’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can make your reliable workhorse feel unpredictable and unsafe.
Don’t let a faulty module sideline your vehicle. We offer a direct-fit, reliable solution: a Body Control Module, part number 25847589, that arrives at your door fully programmed to your van’s specific VIN. Just provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number after purchase, and our experts will flash the module with the latest GM software updates. This means you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a part that’s ready to install right out of the box, saving you time, money, and a major headache.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in his 2011 Express 1500 work van with a frustrating list of problems: the interior lights would stay on, the driver’s side power window was dead, and the security light was flashing, causing an intermittent no-start condition. He had already replaced the window switch and checked fuses, but the problems persisted. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw multiple communication error codes pointing toward the BCM. These modules, often located in the center dash area, can be susceptible to voltage fluctuations or internal component failure over time. We installed one of our VIN-programmed BCMs, performed the necessary key relearn and airbag system check, and had his van back in service the same afternoon, with all electrical systems functioning perfectly. It’s a common failure, but with the right part, it’s a straightforward fix.
Is Your Express Van Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on or not turning on.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light is flashing, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ False warnings appearing on the instrument cluster (e.g., “Service Airbag”).
- ✔ Radio or climate control systems are unresponsive.
- ✔ Key fobs are no longer recognized by the vehicle.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Replacing the 2008-2012 Express 1500 BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer or a quick task for any professional. Since this module comes pre-programmed, the most complex part of the job is already done for you.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Locate the BCM: On the Express and Savana vans, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area. You may need to remove a lower dash panel or glove box for access.
- 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 Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely re-attach the electrical connectors. You should hear a click as they lock into place.
- Perform Post-Installation Procedures: Reconnect the battery. You will need to perform a security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock or Passkey relearn), which typically involves cycling the key in the ignition. Refer to the critical post-installation notes below.
Critical Post-Installation Steps
After installing your new BCM, a few final procedures are essential for safety and full functionality. While our programming handles the vehicle-specific data, these steps sync the new module with other systems in your van.
- Airbag System Reset: If the airbag warning light is on, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a compatible high-end scan tool. This ensures the airbag system is communicating correctly with the new BCM. This is a critical safety step.
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles require the Brake Pedal Position (BPP) sensor to be recalibrated after a BCM replacement. This ensures the brake lights and stability control systems function as intended.
- Security Relearn: You will need to perform a security relearn procedure to sync your keys to the new module. This can usually be done without a scan tool and instructions are widely available online for your specific model.
Note: If you are unfamiliar with these procedures, we strongly recommend consulting a professional technician to ensure they are completed correctly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 25847589 and is interchangeable with a wide range of other part numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles, among others:
- Chevrolet Express 1500 / 2500 / 3500 Van (2008-2012)
- GMC Savana 1500 / 2500 / 3500 Van (2008-2012)
- Chevrolet Impala (2006-2013)
- Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban / Avalanche (2010)
- GMC Acadia (2007-2012)
- Cadillac CTS (2008-2013), DTS (2006-2011), Escalade (2010)
- Buick Enclave (2008-2012), Lucerne (2006-2011)
- Hummer H2 (2008-2009)
This module also replaces the following part numbers: 10382479, 15093910, 15276271, 15819552, 15872388, 15921352, 20815898, 20864767, 20921435, 22860591, 25847588, 25892622, and many more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This 2008-2012 Express 1500 BCM is delivered to you pre-programmed using the VIN you provide. This saves you a trip to the dealer and associated programming fees. You will only need to perform the standard security relearn procedure after installation.
What information do you need from me?
After you complete your purchase, you must provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot program and ship your module without it.
Is this a difficult part to replace for a DIYer?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, it is a very manageable job. The most important part is locating the module and carefully swapping the connectors. Since the programming is done, the hardest part is already handled.
What happens if I don’t do the airbag or brake relearn procedures?
You may have persistent warning lights on your dash, such as the airbag light. More importantly, these safety systems may not function correctly in an emergency. We strongly advise having these procedures completed by a qualified technician if you do not have the proper tools.
Will this fix my key fob not working?
Yes, a failing BCM is a very common cause for key fobs not being recognized. Once the new BCM is installed and the security relearn is complete, your key fobs should function properly again.