If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your 2008-2012 GMC Savana 1500, you’re not alone. Over my 20 years turning wrenches, I’ve seen countless work vans come into the shop with a frustrating mix of problems: the dome light won’t turn off, the power locks have a mind of their own, or the radio suddenly dies. These aren’t separate problems; they’re classic symptoms of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your van’s comfort and convenience features, and when it starts to go, it can make your vehicle feel haunted.
Don’t waste time and money chasing individual electrical gremlins. This replacement Body Control Module is the direct, reliable solution you need. We take the biggest headache out of the repair process: programming. Simply provide us with your van’s VIN at checkout, and our technicians will flash this module with the latest, most stable GM software specifically for your vehicle. It arrives at your door ready to install, saving you a costly trip to the dealership and getting your workhorse back in service faster.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2011 Savana 1500 that came in with the owner at his wit’s end. The battery was draining overnight, the wipers would sometimes activate on their own, and the security light was flashing intermittently. A quick scan showed a slew of communication error codes (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of a complex wiring chase, we confirmed power and ground at the module were good, condemning the BCM itself. Installing a pre-programmed unit like this one had the van fixed in under an hour, resolving all symptoms at once. It’s a textbook example of how a single component can cause widespread, confusing issues.
Is Your Savana Exhibiting These BCM Failure Signs?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows and door locks.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights that stay on, flicker, or won’t turn on at all.
- ✔ The security system acting erratically or preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Horn, radio, or windshield wipers functioning incorrectly or not at all.
- ✔ A persistent “Service Theft System” or other warnings on the dash.
- ✔ Multiple communication Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), such as U0140, U0155, or U0164.
- ✔ Unexplained parasitic battery drain that kills your battery overnight.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Replacement
For the Savana van, this is a very accessible job for a DIYer or any professional technician. The BCM is typically located in the center dash area.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2008-2012 Savana, the BCM is generally found behind the center part of the dashboard. You may need to remove a lower dash panel 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 module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical harnesses. Ensure they click 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, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair.
- Perform Relearns (If Needed): In some cases, you may see an airbag light or have brake system messages. Follow the post-installation procedures below if these occur.
Post-Installation System Checks
While this module is programmed for your VIN, some vehicle security and safety systems may require a handshake procedure after installation. This is normal.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and stability control operation, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary on some models.
Disclaimer: Always refer to a factory service manual for your specific vehicle for detailed instructions and torque specs.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 20864767 and other interchangeable part numbers listed below. It is guaranteed to fit the following models, among others:
- 2008-2012 GMC Savana 1500 Van
- 2008-2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 Van
- 2008-2012 GMC Savana / Chevrolet Express 2500 & 3500 Vans (confirm part number)
- 2007-2012 GMC Acadia
- 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala
- 2010 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon (confirm ID)
This module is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. It 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, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No. There is no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a manageable repair. The main challenge is accessing the module’s location in the dash. Our step-by-step guide provides a clear overview of the process.
What information do you need to program the module?
We require your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Please provide it during or after checkout to ensure we can program the module correctly before shipping.
What if my airbag light comes on after installation?
This is an expected possibility. The new BCM needs to be electronically introduced to the airbag’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). This requires a bi-directional scan tool to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” function. A local repair shop can perform this service for you.
Will this fix my specific electrical problem?
This BCM will resolve issues directly caused by a faulty module. If you are experiencing any of the common symptoms listed above, there is a very high probability this will be the correct fix. Proper diagnosis is always recommended.