Restore Your Van’s Electrical Functions with a Reliable, Pre-Programmed BCM
If your 2008-2012 Savana 1500 Van is acting possessed—with flickering lights, malfunctioning power locks and windows, or a security system that has a mind of its own—you’re likely dealing with a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty BCM can cause some of the most frustrating and hard-to-diagnose electrical issues. It’s the central command center for your vehicle’s comfort and security features, and when it goes, it can feel like everything is breaking at once.
Forget the expensive trip to the dealership and the hassle of coordinating programming. We offer a straightforward solution: a high-quality BCM that arrives at your door already programmed to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and our experts will flash the module with the latest GM software updates. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s other systems right out of the box, saving you significant time and money.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Intermittent No-Start
A local delivery business brought in their Savana van with a bizarre issue. It would randomly refuse to start, but only on hot afternoons. The battery was good, the starter was new, and there were no engine codes. However, the security light on the dash would flash erratically during the no-start events. After checking the wiring, I suspected the BCM. On these GM platforms, heat soak can cause internal solder joints in the BCM to fail, disrupting the Passlock security signal to the PCM. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM, and the van has been starting reliably ever since. It’s a classic example of how the 2008-2012 Savana 1500 BCM can create symptoms that seem unrelated to its primary function.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is your likely solution:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights (headlights, dome lights).
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The security system acting up, causing alarm issues or no-start conditions (common U-codes like U0100, U0140).
- ✔ Instrument cluster gauges behaving strangely or warning lights staying on.
- ✔ The radio or HVAC controls are unresponsive.
- ✔ A parasitic battery drain that kills your battery overnight.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 2008-2012 Savana 1500 BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer or any professional mechanic. In most Savana and Express vans, the BCM is located in the center dash area.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Access the Module: You will likely need to remove some dash trim panels around the center console or glove box area to gain access to the BCM.
- 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 BCM: Mount your 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.
- Perform Relearns (If Needed): Start the vehicle. In some cases, you may need to perform additional procedures as noted below. For many, the vehicle will function correctly immediately.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our VIN programming handles the critical setup, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. These procedures typically require a bi-directional scan tool.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a professional will need to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure to sync the modules.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be required to ensure correct brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: We always recommend consulting a factory service manual for your specific vehicle. No core charge is required; you can keep your old part.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers. Please verify your vehicle is on this list. This module replaces part numbers: 10382479, 15093910, 15276271, 15299986, 15819552, 15828601, 15837419, 15872388, 15872421, 15880684, 15921352, 15921353, 15948438, and many more.
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 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 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 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 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
Frequently Asked Questions
2008-2012 Savana 1500 BCM
What if this doesn’t fix my problem?
While a faulty is a very common cause for these symptoms, we always recommend proper diagnosis. Electrical issues can also stem from wiring, grounds, or other modules. Please ensure the BCM has been identified as the point of failure before ordering.