Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your 2010 Avalanche?
If your 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 is experiencing a host of bizarre and frustrating electrical issues, the Body Control Module (BCM) is the most likely culprit. As a technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing BCM can turn a reliable truck into a source of constant headaches. It acts as the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features, and when it starts to fail, the symptoms can be maddeningly inconsistent. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a permanent solution to these problems.
This isn’t a generic, one-size-fits-all module. We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the equation. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN after purchase, and we will flash this BCM with the latest official GM software specific to your Avalanche. This means it arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you a costly trip to the dealership for programming. This is the most efficient way to restore your truck’s full functionality.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in his 2010 Avalanche 1500 last month with a laundry list of complaints: the radio would turn on and off by itself, the power locks worked intermittently, and sometimes the truck wouldn’t start, just a click. He had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I saw multiple communication error codes pointing toward the BCM. On these trucks, the BCM is located under the steering column, and a quick inspection revealed signs of slight water intrusion from a leaky windshield seal—a common killer of these modules. Installing a VIN-programmed 2010 Avalanche 1500 BCM like this one resolved all his issues in under an hour. It’s a classic failure pattern I’ve diagnosed hundreds of times.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on.
- ✔ The security system acting up, causing no-start conditions.
- ✔ The radio or climate control system behaving unpredictably.
- ✔ False warnings appearing on the instrument cluster (e.g., “Service 4WD”).
- ✔ Erratic windshield wiper operation.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the BCM is a manageable job for a DIY enthusiast. Follow these steps to get your truck back in top shape. Remember to perform the post-installation procedures for safety and full functionality.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2010 Avalanche, the BCM is typically found under the driver’s side dashboard, near the steering column. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- CRITICAL – Post-Install Procedures: After replacing your 2010 Avalanche 1500 BCM, you MUST perform a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a capable scan tool to clear the airbag light. Some vehicles may also require a Brake Pedal Position Sensor recalibration. If you are not equipped to do this, a professional technician can complete these final steps.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 15872388 and is interchangeable with a wide range of other GM part numbers. It fits many vehicles across the GM family. Please verify your part number or consult the list below. If your vehicle is listed, this module is a confirmed fit.
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
Fits Models Including:
AVALANCHE 1500 10
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12
CTS 08-13
DTS 06-11
ENCLAVE 08-12
EQUINOX 07-09
ESCALADE 10
ESCALADE ESV 10
ESCALADE EXT 10
EXPRESS VANS 08-12
G8 08-09
HUMMER H2 08-09
IMPALA 06-13
LUCERNE 06-11
MONTE CARLO 06-07
OUTLOOK 07-10
SAVANA VANS 08-12
SRX 07-09
STS 10
SUBURBAN 1500 10
TAHOE 10
TORRENT 07-09
TRAVERSE 09-12
VUE 08-10
YUKON 10
YUKON XL 1500 10
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does the Body Control Module do?
The BCM is a computer that manages many of your vehicle’s non-engine-related functions. This includes power windows, locks, lights, wipers, security system, and more. When it fails, you see strange electrical problems that don’t seem connected.
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the BCM with the correct software and vehicle-specific options from GM. This ensures the module works correctly with your truck’s features right out of the box, eliminating the need for expensive dealer programming.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, it’s a very manageable job. The main challenge is accessing the module under the dashboard. The most critical part is ensuring the post-installation procedures (like the airbag system reset) are performed with a proper scan tool.
Do I need to send you my old BCM?
No, a core return is not required. You can purchase this module outright, which simplifies the process and gets your truck repaired faster.
Will this fix my truck’s no-start problem?
A failing BCM is a very common cause of no-start or intermittent start issues, especially if it’s related to the security system (a blinking security light on the dash is a big clue). While other issues can cause a no-start, if you have other electrical symptoms from the list above, the 2010 Avalanche 1500 BCM is the most probable cause.