Get Your Workhorse Back on the Road, Fast.
If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your GMC Savana or Chevrolet Express van, you know how frustrating it can be. Flickering lights, power windows with a mind of their own, intermittent starting problems, or a dashboard lit up with false warnings—these aren’t just annoyances; they’re signs that the central nervous system of your vehicle’s electronics, the Body Control Module (BCM), is failing. For a work van, downtime is lost income. This isn’t a part you can afford to guess on.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty BCM can cripple a perfectly good vehicle. That’s why we offer a straightforward, reliable solution. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete service. We take a genuine GM BCM and flash it with the very latest official software, programmed specifically to your van’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures all the options and security features your vehicle came with from the factory work correctly right out of the box, saving you a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Haunted Express Van
A local contractor brought in his 2011 Express 3500, convinced it was possessed. The dome lights would stay on, the radio would randomly shut off, and worst of all, the van would sometimes refuse to crank. He had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I saw a slew of communication error codes pointing to the BCM. These modules, often located in the center dash area, are susceptible to moisture and voltage spikes over time. We installed one of our VIN-programmed BCMs, performed the quick post-install relearns, and the van’s electrical gremlins were gone. He was back on the job site the next day, a testament to fixing it right the first time.
Is Your Savana Showing These BCM Failure Signs?
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Intermittent operation of the horn, windshield wipers, or radio.
- ✔ False warning lights on the instrument cluster (e.g., ABS, Airbag) with no actual faults in those systems.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to U-codes (communication) or B-codes (body).
- ✔ Complete loss of power to multiple accessory systems at once.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Installing your new 2008-2012 Savana 3500 Body Control Module is manageable for a DIYer with basic tools. The key is the post-installation procedure.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on electrical components.
- Locate the BCM: In most Savana and Express vans, the BCM is located behind the center dash, often near the radio or climate controls. You may need to remove some dash trim panels to access it.
- Swap the Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs, so don’t force them. Remove any mounting screws or bolts and take out the old module. Install the new, pre-programmed BCM in its place and securely reconnect all connectors.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Critical Final Steps: After installation, two procedures may be required. You will need a capable bi-directional scan tool for these steps.
- Airbag System Handshake: To clear the airbag warning light, you must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This allows the new BCM to communicate securely with the airbag module.
- Brake Sensor Relearn: Some models require a ‘Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn’ to ensure proper brake light operation and stability control function.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 20864767 and is interchangeable with a wide range of other GM part numbers. While it is a guaranteed fit for the 2008-2012 GMC Savana 3500, it also fits many other vehicles. Please match your part number from the list below or contact us with your VIN to confirm compatibility.
Interchangeable 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
Partial Fitment List: GMC Savana / Chevrolet Express (1500/2500/3500, 2008-2012), Chevrolet Impala (2006-2013), Cadillac DTS/CTS/SRX, Buick Lucerne/Enclave, GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Traverse, Pontiac G8, Hummer H2, and many more. Due to the extensive list, confirming by VIN is the most reliable method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN to program the BCM?
Your vehicle’s VIN is like its fingerprint. It tells us the exact options, security system, and features your vehicle has. Programming the BCM with your VIN ensures all these systems work correctly, just as they did from the factory. It’s the key to a successful installation.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
It’s very close. The module is pre-programmed, which handles the most difficult part. However, after physical installation, you will need a diagnostic scan tool to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ and potentially a ‘Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn’ to finalize the communication between modules.
What if my original part number is on the list but isn’t 20864767?
That’s perfectly fine. The extensive list of part numbers are all interchangeable. As long as your original part number is on our list, this BCM will function as a direct replacement once programmed to your VIN.
Will this fix my intermittent no-start problem?
A failing BCM is a very common cause of intermittent no-start conditions, especially if the security light is on. While we can’t diagnose your vehicle remotely, if the BCM is the root cause, this part is the correct solution.
Where is the BCM located on my 2010 Savana 3500?
On most 2008-2012 Savana and Express vans, the Body Control Module is located in the center of the dashboard, typically behind or below the radio and HVAC control head. Access usually requires removing the main dash bezel.
What tools are needed for the post-installation procedures?
You will need a professional-grade, bi-directional scan tool. Basic code readers cannot perform these specific functions. Many independent repair shops or advanced DIYers have tools capable of performing the SDM key setup and brake sensor relearn procedures.