Restore Full Electrical Control to Your GM Van
If you’re dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2008–2012 GMC Savana 2500—like power windows with a mind of their own, flickering dash lights, or a security system that prevents your van from starting—the Body Control Module (BCM) is the most likely culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty BCM can turn a reliable workhorse into a source of constant frustration. This module is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it fails, it can trigger a cascade of confusing and seemingly unrelated problems.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We take the biggest headache out of the repair process: programming. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our experts will program this BCM with the latest, most stable software directly from GM. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you the time and significant expense of a trip to the dealership for programming. This is the most efficient way to get your van back on the road and working as it should.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Gremlin
A customer brought in his 2011 Express 2500 work van, a cousin to the Savana, with a complaint that drove him crazy. Randomly, the radio would shut off, the dome light would come on, and the power locks would cycle while driving. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the main grounds. We scanned it and found a slew of U-codes (communication errors) between various modules. This pointed away from a single component and towards the network’s hub—the BCM. After confirming power and ground to the BCM were solid, we knew the module itself was failing internally. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM, performed the necessary security and brake sensor relearns, and all the ghost-like electrical issues were gone for good. It’s a classic case of a failing 2008–2012 Savana 2500 BCM causing network-wide chaos.
Is Your Van Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operate intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security light is on, and the vehicle may not start.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flicker, stay on, or won’t turn on.
- ✔ The horn honks unexpectedly or doesn’t work.
- ✔ The instrument cluster displays false warnings or acts erratically.
- ✔ Diagnostic scans show communication error codes (U-codes) like U0140, U0155, or U0164.
- ✔ Wipers get stuck or activate on their own.
A Straightforward Guide to BCM Installation
Replacing the BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer or any professional mechanic. The key is following the correct procedures, especially after the physical swap is complete.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are de-energized.
- Locate the BCM: On the GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express vans, the BCM is typically located in the center dash area, often accessible after removing lower dash panels. Refer to a vehicle-specific service manual for the exact location.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that must be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket and remove it.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely plug in all the electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Crucial Final Steps: This is the most important part. You MUST perform the required system relearns. Failure to do so can leave warning lights on and safety systems inoperative. See the critical notes below.
Important Post-Installation Requirements
After installing your new 2008–2012 Savana 2500 BCM, completing these final steps with a capable diagnostic scan tool is mandatory for proper vehicle function and safety.
- Airbag System Reset: To clear the airbag warning light, you must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This re-establishes communication between the new BCM and the airbag system’s Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM).
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Many GM vehicles require the Brake Pedal Position Sensor to be recalibrated after a BCM replacement. This ensures the brake lights and stability control systems function correctly.
Note: If you are not equipped or comfortable with performing these electronic procedures, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a qualified professional technician.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles and is compatible with numerous original part numbers. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below and that your original part number is listed. The most reliable way to ensure compatibility is to match the part number from your existing module.
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
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
ACADIA 07-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
AVALANCHE 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
CAPRICE 11-13 Body Control (BCM)
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
CTS 08-13 Body Control (BCM); LH dash / RH dash
DTS 06-11 Body Control (BCM); (RH center dash)
ENCLAVE 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
ESCALADE / ESV / EXT 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
G8 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
HUMMER H2 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (LH firewall)
IMPALA 06-13 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
LUCERNE 06-11 Body Control (BCM); (right side dash)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH steering column)
OUTLOOK 07-10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SRX 07-09 Body Control (BCM); LH dash
STS 10 Body Control (BCM); center dash
SUBURBAN 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
TAHOE 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
TORRENT 07-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
TRAVERSE 09-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
VUE 08-10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
YUKON / YUKON XL 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my VIN required for purchase?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential because it allows us to program the BCM with the exact software and vehicle-specific options your Savana was built with. This ensures 100% compatibility and proper function of all electronic systems right out of the box.
Will this BCM be ready to install when I receive it?
Yes, the module arrives programmed to your VIN. You will need to install it and then perform the necessary post-installation procedures, such as the airbag system reset and brake pedal sensor relearn, using a compatible scan tool.
Can I skip the post-installation relearn procedures?
No, it is critical for safety and functionality that you complete them. Skipping the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ will leave the airbag warning light on, meaning the system is likely inoperative. Skipping the brake sensor relearn can affect brake light operation and stability control.
Where is the BCM located on my 2010 Savana 2500?
On most 2008-2012 Savana and Express vans, the BCM is located behind the dashboard in the center stack area. You will likely need to remove the lower trim panels below the radio and HVAC controls to access it.
My original part number isn’t 25847588, but it’s on the interchange list. Will this work?
Yes. GM often updates part numbers over time. If your original BCM’s part number is on our comprehensive compatibility list, this module will serve as a direct, updated replacement for it.
What tools do I need for the final relearn steps?
You will need a professional-grade bidirectional scan tool. Basic code readers cannot perform these specific functions. Tools like the GM MDI, Snap-on Solus, Autel MaxiSYS, or similar devices have these capabilities.