Restore Your Truck’s Electrical System with a VIN-Programmed BCM
Are you chasing electrical gremlins in your 2010 Chevy Avalanche? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security system that has a mind of its own, or worse—a truck that won’t start? These frustrating and seemingly random issues often point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can create a cascade of problems that are a nightmare to diagnose. Stop throwing parts at the problem. This is the direct, reliable solution you’ve been looking for.
We offer a genuine OEM replacement Body Control Module, part number 15828601, that arrives at your door fully programmed to your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming, saving you hundreds of dollars and significant downtime. Simply provide us with your VIN after purchase, and our experts will flash the module with the latest GM software updates, ensuring perfect integration and function. This is the most efficient way to get your 2010 Avalanche BCM replaced and your truck back to 100%.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I recently had a 2010 Tahoe—which shares the same platform as the Avalanche—in my bay with a bizarre set of symptoms. The owner complained that the radio would turn on by itself, the driver’s side power lock was intermittent, and the low beams would occasionally flicker. No check engine light was on, but a deep scan showed several ‘Loss of Communication’ codes (U-codes) with various modules. After confirming the main power and ground circuits were solid, we isolated the BCM. Instead of towing it to a dealer for a new module and programming, the customer ordered one of our VIN-programmed units. The installation took less than 30 minutes, and all the strange electrical issues were gone instantly. It’s a perfect example of how a failing BCM can mimic a dozen other problems.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a replacement is likely the solution:
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light flashing, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ The radio or instrument cluster behaving erratically.
- ✔ False warnings appearing on the driver information center.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or U0164.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Replacing the BCM on your Avalanche is a manageable job for a confident DIYer, especially since we handle the programming. On this model, the BCM is typically located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before beginning any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: Remove the lower dash panel beneath the steering wheel to gain access to the module. It’s a black plastic box with several large multi-pin electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all 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 Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely plug in all the electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair.
- Perform Relearn Procedures: Depending on your vehicle’s configuration, you may need to perform additional relearn procedures as detailed below. This is crucial for safety systems.
Important Post-Installation Steps
While our programming handles the heavy lifting, some GM vehicles require on-vehicle relearn procedures to sync all systems. These may include:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag/SRS warning light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a compatible high-level scan tool. This is a critical safety step to ensure the airbag system is fully operational.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure accurate brake light operation and proper function of the traction/stability control systems, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary.
Disclaimer: We strongly recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified technician for vehicle-specific instructions.
Will This Fit My Vehicle? Verified Compatibility
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. This unit is compatible with 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a Body Control Module do?
The BCM is a computer that manages the electronic accessories in your vehicle’s body. This includes power windows, locks, seats, mirrors, interior and exterior lighting, the security system, wipers, and the instrument panel, among other things. It’s the brain for all non-engine related electronics.
Why do you need my VIN to program the BCM?
Your vehicle’s VIN is like its fingerprint. It contains specific information about the options and features your truck was built with (e.g., type of headlights, security system, power seats). We use the VIN to load the exact correct software from GM, ensuring all features work perfectly as they did from the factory.
Is this a difficult part for a DIYer to install?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, it’s very manageable. The main challenge is typically accessing the module under the dashboard. Since we handle the complex programming, the physical swap is just a matter of unplugging the old unit and plugging in the new one. No special tools are usually required beyond basic hand tools.
What happens if I don’t do the post-installation relearn procedures?
If required for your vehicle, skipping these steps can leave safety systems non-functional. For example, if the airbag system isn’t synced, the airbags may not deploy in an accident, and the warning light will stay on. The brake position relearn ensures your traction control and ABS work correctly.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is absolutely no core charge. You can keep your old module, so you don’t have to worry about the cost or hassle of shipping it back to us.