Restore Your Cadillac’s Electrical Stability
Are you chasing electrical gremlins in your 2008-2013 Cadillac CTS? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security system that acts up, or an intermittent no-start condition can all point to a single culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features, a faulty BCM can make driving your luxury car a frustrating experience. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a breakdown in your car’s core communication network.
This is a direct-fit replacement Body Control Module, arriving at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. We handle the complex part, loading the latest GM-certified software so you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. This ensures all your car’s original features work seamlessly right out of the box. Simply provide your VIN after purchase, and we’ll deliver a plug-and-play solution to get your CTS back to perfect working order.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
A customer brought in a 2011 CTS with a classic “ghost in the machine” complaint. The dome lights would randomly flicker, the radio would shut off, and sometimes the key fob wouldn’t work. They’d already replaced the battery, but the problems persisted. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw a slew of U-codes (communication errors), specifically a U0140 – Lost Communication with Body Control Module. In my 20+ years of experience, this pattern almost always points to an internal BCM failure. The module was sending corrupt data across the CAN bus network, causing chaos. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM, and every single issue vanished instantly. It’s a common failure, but one that’s easily fixed with the right part.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
A failing BCM can cause a wide range of confusing symptoms. If your Cadillac is experiencing any of the following, it might be time for a replacement:
- ✔ Erratic power windows, door locks, or interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on or flashes, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Inaccurate or dead gauges on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ Key fob not responding or working intermittently.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or B-series codes.
- ✔ A battery that drains overnight with no other obvious cause.
Your Straightforward CTS BCM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On the 2008-2013 Cadillac CTS, the Body Control Module is typically located on the left-hand (driver’s) side of the dashboard, often behind the lower dash panel or near the steering column.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, remove any bolts or clips holding the module in place and take it out.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Seat the new, pre-programmed BCM in the mounting bracket and secure it. Reconnect all the electrical connectors firmly until they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position (without starting the engine) and test all body functions: lights, locks, windows, wipers, etc.
- ✔ Perform Relearn Procedures: If the airbag light is on or you have brake system warnings, you may need to perform the ‘Airbag System Sync’ or ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn’ as detailed in our post-installation notes. This often requires a professional scan tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 20921435 and is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. While the primary focus is the 2008-2013 CTS Body Control Module, please verify your part number and check the comprehensive list below to ensure a perfect match for your car or truck.
This part is a confirmed fit for the following 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 2500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 6.0L
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 6.6L, VIN 6 (8th digit, opt LMM)
IMPALA 06-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 4.8L
ACADIA 07-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH steering column)
TAHOE 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
TRAVERSE 09-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
YUKON 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
SAVANA 2500 VAN 11-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
YUKON XL 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 20921435
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 22860591
DTS 06-11 Body Control (BCM); (RH center dash)
OUTLOOK 07-10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
SUBURBAN 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
ESCALADE EXT 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 11-12 Body Control (BCM)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
STS 10 Body Control (BCM); center dash
TORRENT 07-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
TAHOE 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898
CTS 08-13 Body Control (BCM); LH dash
CAPTIVA SPORT 12 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), ID 20921436
G8 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
IMPALA 13 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), ID 22820315
SUBURBAN 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898
AVALANCHE 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
ESCALADE 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
LUCERNE 06-11 Body Control (BCM); (right side dash)
CTS 08 Body Control (BCM); RH dash
ESCALADE ESV 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
SAVANA 3500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 4.8L
SAVANA 3500 VAN 10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), 6.0L
YUKON XL 1500 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 25892622
ESCALADE 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898
SRX 07-09 Body Control (BCM); LH dash
ESCALADE ESV 10 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), ID 20815898
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 11-12 Body Control (BCM)
HUMMER H2 08-09 Body Control (BCM); (LH firewall)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 11-12 Body Control (BCM)
VUE 08-10 Body Control (BCM); (center dash)
CAPRICE 11-13 Body Control (BCM)
ENCLAVE 08-12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to provide my VIN?
Yes, this is essential. We use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to program the module with the exact software and calibrations for your specific vehicle options. This step is what makes the installation a simple plug-and-play process.
Is this a simple DIY job?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, this is very manageable. The main challenge is accessing the module’s location. Since we handle the programming, you avoid the most difficult part of the job.
What if my airbag light comes on after installation?
This can happen occasionally. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag system’s computer (SDM). A professional mechanic with a capable scan tool will need to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to resolve it.
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module, which can be helpful if you ever need to reference it.
Will this fix my car’s specific problem?
This module will correct issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. While the symptoms we’ve listed are common indicators, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified technician to confirm the BCM is the root cause before ordering.