Restore Your Van’s Electrical Brain and Get Back to Work
Are you chasing electrical gremlins in your 2008-2012 GMC Savana 3500? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security system that acts up, or even a frustrating no-start condition can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your van’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can make your reliable workhorse feel unpredictable. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can affect your productivity and safety.
This replacement Savana 3500 Body Control Module is the definitive solution to these issues. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will program the module with the latest official GM software specific to your van. It arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation, getting you back on the road with confidence.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer’s 2011 Savana 3500 work van came into the shop last month with a bizarre set of symptoms. The driver reported that the dome lights would stay on intermittently, the radio would shut off randomly, and occasionally the power door locks wouldn’t respond. He had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I noticed several communication error codes between various modules. In my 20+ years of experience, this pattern almost always points away from the individual components and towards the central hub—the BCM. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM, and all the ghost-like electrical issues vanished immediately. It’s a common failure point on these hard-working vans, often caused by years of vibrations and thermal cycles.
Is Your Van Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Erratic or non-working interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ Power windows, locks, or mirrors functioning intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry is failing.
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain when the vehicle is off.
- ✔ Warning lights on the dash with no apparent cause.
- ✔ Communication errors with other vehicle modules.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your new Savana 3500 Body Control Module is a manageable job for a DIYer or professional. In most Savana and Express vans, the BCM is located in the center dash area.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Access the Module: You will likely need to remove a few dash trim panels to gain access to the BCM. It’s typically mounted to a bracket.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. Note their orientation. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM onto the bracket and securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses.
- Post-Installation Procedures: Reconnect the battery. You will now need to perform a couple of critical relearn procedures.
Important Final Steps After Installation
To ensure full functionality and safety, these steps are required after replacing the BCM. A professional-grade scan tool is necessary for these procedures.
- Airbag System Reset: You must perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This step is crucial to re-establish communication with the airbag system and turn off the airbag warning light.
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles require a recalibration of the brake pedal position sensor. This ensures the brake lights and stability control systems function correctly.
Note: If you are not comfortable with these final steps, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic to ensure they are completed correctly.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part number 20935349 and is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. It also interchanges with the following part numbers: 10382479, 15093910, 15276271, 15299986, 15819552, 15828601, 15837419, 15872388, 15872421, 15880684, 15921352, 15921353, 15948438, 15948439, 20815898, 20839063, 20864767, 20864768, 20921435, 20921436, 22860591, 25826124, 25826125, 25847588, 25847589, 25892622, 25910474, 25934762, 25934763, 95151084. Please verify your vehicle in the list below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, this Savana 3500 Body Control Module comes programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. After physical installation, you will need a capable scan tool to perform the required security and sensor relearn procedures for full functionality.
Do I need to send my old BCM in?
No, there is no core charge or need to send your original module back to us. This is a direct replacement part.
What information do you need from me?
After you complete your purchase, we will need the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from your vehicle. This ensures we load the correct software and settings for your specific options.
Will this fix my ‘Service StabiliTrak’ message?
A faulty BCM can sometimes cause StabiliTrak or ABS warnings due to communication errors or incorrect sensor data (like the brake pedal position). While it’s a strong possibility, you should always perform a full diagnostic scan to confirm the source of the fault code before ordering.
What tools are required for the final programming steps?
You will need a professional-grade bidirectional scan tool (such as a GM Tech 2, MDI, or equivalent high-end aftermarket scanner) that can perform module setup and relearn procedures. Basic code readers cannot perform these functions.