Restore Full Electrical Function to Your Workhorse Van
As a technician with over two decades of diagnostic experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can turn a reliable GMC Savana into a frustrating puzzle of electrical gremlins. Your van is your livelihood, and intermittent issues like flickering lights, malfunctioning power locks, or a security system that acts up on its own can mean costly downtime. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a direct hit to your productivity. The BCM is the central command for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it fails, chaos ensues. This replacement 2008 – 2012 Savana 1500 Body Control Module is the definitive solution to restore order and get your van operating as it should.
We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the equation. Unlike sourcing a part from a junkyard, which comes with an unknown history and requires expensive programming, this module arrives at your door ready for installation. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our experts will program the BCM with the latest GM software specific to your Savana 1500. This ensures seamless communication with your van’s other systems right out of the box, saving you a trip to the dealer and hundreds of dollars in programming fees.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Haunted Work Van
A contractor brought his 2011 Savana 1500 into my bay last month with a list of bizarre complaints. The dome lights would stay on, the radio would randomly shut off, and occasionally, the van wouldn’t start—just a click. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. My initial scan showed a dozen communication codes pointing in different directions. This is a classic sign of a network issue, often stemming from the BCM. After verifying power and ground at the module, we swapped in a pre-programmed BCM. Every single ghost in the machine vanished. It’s a repair I’ve done hundreds of times; a failing BCM can mimic a dozen other problems, but replacing it is often the one true fix.
Is Your Savana Showing These Electrical Gremlins?
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a failing module is the likely culprit:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights (headlights, dome lights, dash lights).
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry failing to operate correctly.
- ✔ The horn sounding unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Warning lights on the dashboard that have no apparent cause (e.g., ‘Service Theft System’).
- ✔ Issues with the radio or climate control systems.
- ✔ Intermittent no-start conditions where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Replacing the 2008 – 2012 Savana 1500 Body Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer or any professional mechanic. Follow these steps for a successful installation.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Locate the BCM: On the Savana/Express vans, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area, often accessible by removing lower dash panels. It’s a black plastic box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all wiring harnesses from the old BCM. The connectors have locking tabs that need to be depressed or slid to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the wiring harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position (without starting the engine) and test the functions: lights, locks, windows, etc.
IMPORTANT: Post-Installation Procedures
After installing your new BCM, a few final steps are required to ensure full system integration and safety. These procedures often require a professional-grade scan tool.
- Airbag System Reset: To clear the airbag warning light, the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed. This re-establishes the security handshake between the BCM and the airbag system’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM).
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles require a recalibration of the brake pedal position sensor. This is critical for the proper function of the anti-lock brake and stability control systems.
Note: If you are not equipped to perform these relearn procedures, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a qualified technician to complete the installation.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This BCM, corresponding to part number 20935349, is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. It is compatible with the following models and part numbers. Please verify your part number before ordering.
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
Compatible Models:
- Acadia (2007-2012)
- Avalanche 1500 (2010)
- Caprice (2011-2013)
- Captiva Sport (2012)
- CTS (2008-2013)
- DTS (2006-2011)
- Enclave (2008-2012)
- Equinox (2007-2009)
- Escalade / ESV / EXT (2010)
- Express 1500 Van (2008-2012)
- Express 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 Van (2008-2012)
- Savana 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
What exactly does the Body Control Module do?
The BCM acts as the central computer for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features. It controls non-engine related functions like power windows, locks, lights, wipers, the security system, and climate controls.
Is this BCM really plug-and-play?
Yes, it is! Because we program the module to your specific VIN before shipping, it eliminates the need for you to take it to a dealership for expensive programming. However, as noted above, some final relearn procedures (like for the airbag system) are required after installation using a scan tool.
Where is the BCM located on a 2008-2012 Savana 1500?
On the GMC Savana and Chevy Express vans from this era, the BCM is located behind the dashboard, in the center area, typically above the accelerator pedal or behind the radio.
What information do you need from me?
After you complete your purchase, we will need the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from your truck. This is usually found on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on the driver’s door jamb sticker.
Will this fix my ‘Service Theft System’ light?
In many cases, yes. The BCM is a key component of the Passlock/Passkey anti-theft system. A faulty BCM is a very common reason for this warning light and associated no-start problems. Our programming ensures it works with your existing keys.
What if I have questions during installation?
Our team of experienced technicians is here to help. While we can’t be there in person, we can offer expert advice to guide you through the process. Your success is our priority.