Restore Control and Eliminate Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Vehicle
Is your 2008-2012 Savana 1500 Van acting possessed? Flickering dash lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security system that randomly prevents you from starting the engine are all classic, frustrating signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can create a cascade of bizarre, hard-to-diagnose issues. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can impact your vehicle’s safety and reliability, especially for a workhorse like the Savana van.
This is a direct-fit replacement Body Control Module, arriving at your door fully programmed with the latest GM software specifically for your vehicle. We take the guesswork and the expensive trip to the dealership out of the equation. Simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during checkout, and our technicians will flash the module to match your van’s exact configuration. This ensures seamless integration and restores the functions you rely on every day.
A Technician’s Notebook
I once had a 2011 Express van (which shares this exact BCM with the Savana) come into the bay with a complaint that was driving the owner crazy. The interior dome lights wouldn’t turn off, draining the battery overnight, and the power door locks would cycle randomly while driving. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. A quick scan showed a dozen communication codes, all pointing back to the BCM. These modules often fail internally from heat cycles and vibrations, causing logic board failures that lead to these exact kinds of phantom problems. Installing a VIN-programmed BCM like this one resolved all issues in under an hour, saving the client hundreds compared to a dealership repair.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system light is on, and the vehicle may not start.
- ✔ Inaccurate or dead gauges on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ Horn sounding unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module).
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
For the 2008-2012 Savana 1500 Van, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area. While professional installation is always an option, a confident DIYer can often perform this replacement.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before starting work.
- Locate the Module: Access the BCM by removing the necessary dash trim panels. In most Savana and Express vans, it’s mounted near the center of the dashboard structure.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. Note their orientation. Then, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors.
- Power Up: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, windows, locks, horn, etc. Be aware of the potential post-installation procedures below.
Important Post-Installation Information
While this module is pre-programmed for your VIN, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. This is normal. You may need a capable bi-directional scan tool to perform the following if specific warning lights appear:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is required to sync the airbag system with the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary to ensure correct brake light operation and to clear any traction control warnings.
Disclaimer: Procedures can vary. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for specific guidance for your vehicle.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers. If your original module has one of the following part numbers, this unit will work for you: 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.
ACADIA 07-12, 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 1500/2500/3500 VAN 08-12, G8 08-09, HUMMER H2 08-09, IMPALA 06-13, LUCERNE 06-11, MONTE CARLO 06-07, OUTLOOK 07-10, SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 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. Please verify the part number or contact us to confirm fitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a Body Control Module do?
The BCM is a computer that manages most of your vehicle’s non-engine related electronic functions. This includes power windows, locks, mirrors, interior and exterior lighting, the security system, wipers, and the instrument panel gauges. When it fails, you get strange electrical problems.
Why do you need my VIN to program the module?
Your vehicle’s VIN allows us to program the BCM with the specific software and settings for its unique set of options (like power seats, sunroof, specific lighting, etc.). This ensures all features work correctly and makes the installation process much simpler for you.
Is this a difficult part for a DIYer to install?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable job. The main challenge is typically accessing the module behind the dashboard. Our step-by-step guide provides a clear overview, but having a set of plastic trim removal tools is highly recommended to avoid damaging your dash.
What if my airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is a possibility and is related to vehicle security protocols. The new BCM needs to be electronically introduced to the airbag’s computer (SDM). This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure using a professional-grade scan tool. A local repair shop can perform this service if needed.
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No, there is absolutely no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module, which saves you the time and hassle of shipping a core back to us.