Restore Your Van’s Electrical System with a Reliable, Programmed BCM
Is your Savana 1500 acting possessed? Flickering lights, intermittent power windows, a security system that won’t cooperate, or even a frustrating no-start condition can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As a technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty BCM can turn a dependable work van into a source of constant headaches. The BCM is the central hub for your vehicle’s body electronics, managing everything from your interior lights and power locks to communicating with other critical modules. When it fails, the symptoms can be random and difficult to diagnose.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take the hassle and high cost out of the repair by programming this BCM specifically for your van using your VIN. This means it arrives at your door ready for installation, loaded with the latest GM software updates to ensure peak performance and reliability. You get to skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you time and money. Get your van back to being the reliable workhorse it was meant to be with a properly functioning 2008-2012 Savana 1500 BCM.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Phantom Drain
A local contractor brought in his ’11 Savana 2500 with a dead battery every morning. He’d already replaced the battery and alternator, but the parasitic drain persisted. After hours of tracing circuits, we found the BCM was failing to put the interior lighting and radio circuits to sleep after the key was off. It was a slow, silent drain that only a new, properly functioning BCM could fix. This pre-programmed module would have solved his issue on day one, saving him hundreds in diagnostic time and parts he didn’t need.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on, flickering, or not working at all.
- ✔ The security system light flashing, or the vehicle refusing to start (anti-theft).
- ✔ Horn honking randomly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Inconsistent windshield wiper operation.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes related to communication loss with the BCM (e.g., U0140, U0155, U0164).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: In the 2008-2012 Savana 1500 Van, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area. You may need to remove a few dash panels 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 and remove it from the vehicle.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Securely reconnect all electrical harnesses, ensuring each plug clicks into place.
- ✔ Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, wipers, etc.—to confirm proper operation.
- ✔ Perform Relearns (If Needed): As noted in our post-install section, some vehicles may require an Airbag System Sync or Brake Pedal Position Relearn using a professional scan tool if related warning lights appear.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Body Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and interchanges with numerous part numbers. While this is a perfect solution for the 2008-2012 Savana 1500 BCM, please verify your vehicle is on the list below. We program the module based on the VIN you provide to ensure it matches your vehicle’s specific options.
Replaces 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, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipment. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready to install with the latest GM software for your specific vehicle.
Is there a core charge or do I need to send my old BCM back?
There is absolutely no core charge. You can keep your old module, which can be helpful if you ever need to reference old part numbers.
What tools are required for the post-installation procedures?
Procedures like the Airbag System Sync (‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’) or the Brake Pedal Position Relearn require a bi-directional professional diagnostic tool, such as a GM Tech 2 or equivalent high-level scanner. Many local repair shops can perform these for you if needed.
What happens if I don’t provide a VIN?
Providing your VIN is mandatory for this part. We cannot program or ship the BCM without it, as the programming is specific to your vehicle’s factory options and security system. This ensures a successful repair.
Will this fix my check engine light?
A BCM typically controls body functions and communicates with other modules. While it can cause a no-start condition, it does not usually trigger the check engine light, which is related to the engine and emissions systems managed by the ECM/PCM. This part resolves BCM-specific issues and communication codes (U-codes).