Is Your Traverse Plagued by Electrical Gremlins?
If you’re dealing with a 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse that seems to have a mind of its own—flickering interior lights, power windows that won’t cooperate, a security light that stays on, or a battery that’s mysteriously dead every morning—you’re not alone. These frustrating and often unpredictable issues are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can create a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose.
This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a serious safety concern when exterior lights fail or the anti-theft system acts up unexpectedly. Instead of spending a fortune at the dealership on diagnostics and programming fees, take control of the repair with our reliable, pre-programmed BCM. We provide a direct-fit solution that restores full functionality and peace of mind.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Phantom Battery Drain
I had a 2011 Traverse in my bay last month with a classic complaint: a dead battery every two or three days. The owner had already replaced the battery and alternator, but the problem persisted. A parasitic draw test showed a significant power drain, but pulling fuses was inconclusive. Experience pointed me toward the BCM. These modules can fail internally, keeping certain circuits ‘awake’ long after the key is off. After swapping in one of our pre-programmed BCMs, the draw disappeared completely. The customer was thrilled to have a reliable vehicle again without wasting more money on incorrect diagnoses. This is a fix I’ve performed hundreds of times on these GM platforms.
Diagnosing a Faulty BCM
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution for your 2009-2012 Traverse BCM issues:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior lights.
- ✔ Instrument panel gauges behaving strangely or not working at all.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light staying illuminated, potentially causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Communication error codes, such as U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module), stored in other modules.
- ✔ Headlights, taillights, or turn signals working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ Unexplained battery drain that leaves you stranded.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 2009-2012 Traverse BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. The BCM is typically located on the left-hand (driver’s) side of the dash. While specific steps can vary, here is a general guide:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Access the Module: You will likely need to remove the lower dash panel beneath the steering column to gain access to the BCM. It’s usually mounted to a bracket with several large electrical connectors.
- Document Everything: Before unplugging anything, take a clear photo of the connectors. They are often color-coded, but a picture provides excellent insurance for correct reassembly.
- Swap the BCM: Carefully release the locking tabs on each electrical connector and disconnect them. Unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket and set it aside. Mount the new BCM in its place.
- Reconnect and Reassemble: Firmly plug in all the electrical connectors to your new module. Reinstall any dash panels you removed and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Post-Installation Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—windows, locks, lights, wipers, etc. Note that some vehicles may require a post-installation procedure like an airbag system sync or brake pedal position relearn if specific warning lights appear.
Important Post-Installation Information
Because this BCM is pre-programmed to your VIN, it’s designed to be a plug-and-play repair. However, in some cases, additional steps may be needed:
- ✔ Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is required. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system and must be done with a professional-grade scan tool.
- ✔ Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure correct brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary on certain models.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers. We program it specifically for your 2009-2012 Traverse BCM needs, but it also fits the following models. Please verify your part number from the list below.
Compatible 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
Fitment Includes (but not limited to): Acadia (07-12), Avalanche 1500 (10), Caprice (11-13), Captiva Sport (12), CTS (08-13), DTS (06-11), Enclave (08-12), Equinox (07-09), Escalade (10), Express/Savana Vans (08-12), G8 (08-09), Hummer H2 (08-09), Impala (06-13), Lucerne (06-11), Monte Carlo (06-07), Outlook (07-10), SRX (07-09), STS (10), Suburban/Tahoe/Yukon (10), Torrent (07-09), Traverse (09-12), Vue (08-10).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send my old BCM back?
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 old part numbers.
Is this BCM truly plug-and-play?
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 old part numbers.
What information do you need from me?
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 old part numbers.
Will this fix my ‘Service StabiliTrak’ or ‘Service Traction Control’ message?
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 old part numbers.