Restore Full Control of Your GM Vehicle’s Electronics
If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical problems in your 2008-2012 Express 3500—like power windows with a mind of their own, flickering dash lights, or a security system that randomly acts up—you’re likely facing a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your vehicle’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated issues. I’ve seen it countless times in the shop: a perfectly good work van sidelined by what appears to be electronic chaos. The good news is, the fix is more straightforward than you might think.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the hassle out of the repair by pre-programming this BCM specifically to your vehicle’s VIN. Simply provide us with your VIN after purchase, and we’ll flash the module with the latest GM software updates. This ensures seamless integration with your van’s existing systems, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. Get your workhorse back on the road and functioning reliably with a dependable 2008-2012 Express 3500 BCM.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Gremlin
A local contractor brought in his 2011 Express 3500, complaining of a “ghost in the machine.” The radio would shut off, the dome light would flicker, and occasionally the power locks wouldn’t respond to the key fob. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the main grounds. When we connected the scan tool, we found a slew of U-codes (communication errors) pointing to a network problem. In my experience, when multiple, unrelated electronic modules report communication loss, the BCM is often the culprit acting as a disruptive node on the CAN bus network. After confirming power and ground to the BCM were solid, we swapped it with a pre-programmed unit like this one. The communication codes vanished, and all body functions returned to normal. It’s a classic case where shotgunning parts costs more than a proper diagnosis pointing to the BCM.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Common BCM Failure Signs?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights that stay on, flicker, or won’t turn on at all.
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry fails to work correctly.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like the airbag light) illuminate for no reason.
- ✔ Communication error codes (U-codes) stored in the system, such as U0140, U0155, or U0164.
- ✔ A vehicle that won’t start despite having a good battery and starter (due to security system issues).
- ✔ Gauges on the instrument cluster behaving erratically or not working.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge before starting work.
- Locate the BCM: On most Express and Savana vans, the BCM is located behind the center dash panel. You may need to remove trim pieces to gain access. On other GM models, it can be under the steering column or on the left-hand side of the dash.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that must be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it securely.
- Perform Final Procedures: After installation, you must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a compatible scan tool to clear the airbag light. Some vehicles may also require a brake pedal position sensor relearn. If you are unsure, consult a professional.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This BCM, part number 25847589, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and interchanges with numerous part numbers. Please verify your vehicle is on this list and provide your VIN for programming. This module replaces the following 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, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, and 95151084.
Fits models including, but not limited to:
- Acadia: 2007-2012
- Avalanche 1500: 2010 (ID 25892622)
- Caprice: 2011-2013
- Captiva Sport: 2012
- CTS: 2008-2013
- DTS: 2006-2011
- Enclave: 2008-2012
- Equinox: 2007-2009
- Escalade / ESV / EXT: 2010
- Express 1500/2500/3500 Van: 2008-2012
- G8: 2008-2009
- Hummer H2: 2008-2009
- Impala: 2006-2013
- Lucerne: 2006-2011
- Monte Carlo: 2006-2007
- Outlook: 2007-2010
- Savana 1500/2500/3500 Van: 2008-2012
- SRX: 2007-2009
- STS: 2010
- Suburban 1500: 2010
- Tahoe: 2010
- Torrent: 2007-2009
- Traverse: 2009-2012
- Vue: 2008-2010
- Yukon / Yukon XL 1500: 2010
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. Just provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready for installation and the final relearn procedures.
What tools are required for the installation?
Basic hand tools like a socket set and trim removal tools are usually sufficient for removal and installation. However, a professional-grade scan tool is required for the post-installation ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ and potential brake sensor relearn procedures.
Will this fix my ‘Service Airbag’ light?
If the airbag light is on due to a communication fault with the old BCM, this will resolve the root cause. However, you will still need to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a scan tool to turn the light off after installation.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested recycled OEM part, which is then programmed with the latest software for your vehicle, ensuring compatibility and performance.
What happens if I don’t provide my VIN?
We cannot ship the module without your VIN. The programming is essential for the part to function in your specific vehicle. We will contact you after your purchase to get this information.
How do I find the BCM in my 2010 Express Van?
In the 2008-2012 Express and Savana vans, the Body Control Module is typically located in the center dash area, often behind the radio or climate controls. Access requires removing the main dash bezel.