Restore Full Electrical Function to Your GM Vehicle
Are you chasing down frustrating electrical gremlins in your vehicle? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows or locks, a security system that acts up, or even a no-start condition can often be traced back to one single component: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty BCM can create a cascade of seemingly unrelated problems. It’s the central nervous system for your car’s comfort and convenience features, and when it fails, it can make your vehicle feel unreliable.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We offer a genuine GM Body Control Module, part number 20864767, that comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step means you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. We load the latest, most stable software from GM, ensuring all systems communicate correctly right out of the box. This is the most efficient way to get your car back on the road and working as the factory intended.
From the Diagnostic Bay: Solving the Caprice Electrical Mystery
A customer brought in their 2012 Caprice PPV last month with a list of bizarre symptoms. The dome light would stay on, the driver’s side window worked intermittently, and occasionally the car wouldn’t crank. They had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw multiple communication loss codes with various modules. This is a classic sign. Instead of shotgunning parts, we went straight for the BCM. A quick swap with a pre-programmed unit like this one solved every single issue instantly. This 2011-2013 Caprice Body Control Module was the key to restoring the vehicle’s complex electrical network.
Common Signs of a Failing GM BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights that flicker, stay on, or don’t work at all.
- ✔ The security system alarm sounding randomly or the vehicle not recognizing the key fob.
- ✔ A persistent “Service Electrical System” or similar warning message on the dash.
- ✔ Intermittent no-start or no-crank conditions where the battery and starter are known to be good.
- ✔ An airbag warning light that won’t turn off after a module swap.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Installing your new BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. While the exact location varies by model (check your service manual), the general process is similar. Here’s a typical workflow:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes for the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the BCM: On many vehicles like the Caprice, Impala, or Acadia, the BCM is located on the left-hand (driver’s) side of the dashboard, often behind the lower trim panel or near the steering column. For vans like the Express/Savana, it’s typically behind the center dash.
- Remove Connectors: Carefully unplug all electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Do not force them.
- Unbolt the Module: Remove the screws or bolts holding the BCM in its bracket and carefully take the old module out.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in place and secure it. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring each one clicks firmly into place.
- Post-Installation Procedures: Reconnect the battery. You will need to perform a couple of important relearn procedures as detailed below.
Critical Post-Installation Steps
After installing your new 2011-2013 Caprice Body Control Module, a few final steps are required to ensure all systems are synchronized. This is essential for safety and proper operation.
- Airbag System Reset: To clear the airbag warning light, the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a compatible high-level diagnostic scan tool. This re-establishes the security handshake between the BCM and the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn: Some vehicles require the Brake Pedal Position (BPP) sensor to be recalibrated. This ensures the brake lights and stability control system function correctly. This is also done with a professional scan tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 20864767 and a wide range of other GM part numbers. It fits an extensive list of vehicles. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to confirm fitment. This module is compatible with, but not limited to, the following vehicles:
Buick: Enclave (08-12), Lucerne (06-11)
Cadillac: CTS (08-13), DTS (06-11), Escalade / ESV / EXT (10), SRX (07-09), STS (10)
Chevrolet: Avalanche 1500 (10), Caprice (11-13), Captiva Sport (12), Equinox (07-09), Express Van 1500/2500/3500 (08-12), Impala (06-13), Monte Carlo (06-07), Suburban 1500 (10), Tahoe (10), Traverse (09-12)
GMC: Acadia (07-12), Savana Van 1500/2500/3500 (08-12), Yukon / Yukon XL 1500 (10)
Hummer: H2 (08-09)
Pontiac: G8 (08-09), Torrent (07-09)
Saturn: Outlook (07-10), Vue (08-10)
This module replaces 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN number?
Your VIN is essential because it allows us to program the BCM with the exact software and vehicle-specific options your car was built with. This ensures seamless integration and prevents compatibility issues, saving you a trip to the dealer.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, because we pre-program it, the installation is mostly plug-and-play. However, as noted, you will need access to a professional scan tool to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ and potentially a ‘Brake Pedal Position Sensor Relearn’ to finalize the installation and clear any warning lights.
Can I install this myself?
If you are comfortable with basic automotive repairs, like removing dashboard trim panels and using hand tools, you can likely perform the physical installation. The final relearn procedures, however, typically require a bi-directional scan tool that most DIYers do not own.
Will this fix my specific electrical problem?
A failing BCM is the cause of a very wide range of electrical issues. While this part is a common solution for the symptoms listed, proper vehicle diagnosis is always recommended. This module will fix problems directly caused by a faulty BCM.
What happens if I don’t do the airbag or brake relearn procedures?
If you don’t perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure, the airbag warning light will remain illuminated on your dashboard, and the supplemental restraint system may not function correctly in an accident. Failing to recalibrate the brake pedal sensor can affect brake light operation and stability control performance.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested used OEM component, guaranteed to function correctly. We ensure it is loaded with the newest, most stable software available from GM for your vehicle.