If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your GM truck or SUV, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can turn a reliable vehicle into a source of constant frustration. One minute your power windows work, the next they don’t. The security light flashes for no reason, or worse, the truck refuses to start. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a breakdown of your vehicle’s central nervous system. This BCM is the solution, arriving at your door pre-programmed with the latest GM software matched specifically to your vehicle’s VIN.
Is Your Truck Exhibiting These BCM Failure Signs?
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. Before you start chasing wires for hours, check if your vehicle is showing these classic symptoms. In my shop, these are the tell-tale signs that point directly to the BCM:
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like ABS or Airbag) illuminate randomly.
- ✔ The radio or climate control system behaves erratically or won’t turn on.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss, such as U0100, U0140, or other U-codes.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Silverado with a Mind of Its Own
I remember a 2013 Silverado 2500 that came into the bay with a laundry list of electrical gremlins. The owner was fed up. The radio would cut out, the dome light would flicker, and sometimes the truck just wouldn’t crank. He’d already replaced the battery. My initial check confirmed the battery and alternator were fine. Scanning for codes revealed a dozen communication errors between various modules. This is a classic sign that the network’s ‘traffic cop’—the BCM—is failing. We located it under the steering column, and sure enough, we found faint signs of water intrusion from a leaky windshield seal that had corroded some pins on the connector. Replacing the BCM with a VIN-programmed unit like this one solved every single issue instantly. It’s a common failure point, and this part is the definitive fix.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Replacing the BCM is a job most DIY enthusiasts can handle in their own garage. It’s located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column. Follow these steps for a smooth installation:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Access the Module: Remove any lower dash panels or knee bolsters required to get a clear view of the BCM. It’s typically a black box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all wiring harnesses from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its bracket and remove it.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Reconnect all wiring harnesses, ensuring each one clicks securely into place.
- Final Steps: Reinstall the dash panels, reconnect the battery terminal, and start the vehicle. Test all functions like windows, locks, lights, and radio.
Important Post-Installation Information
Because this module is central to many systems, a couple of quick synchronization procedures may be needed after installation. This is normal and ensures all components communicate correctly.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after the swap, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag module.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be required to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual for procedures specific to your vehicle’s year and model.
Verified Fitment For These GM Vehicles
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for part numbers 22737275, 22846365, and 22846364. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles:
- ✔ 2012-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 / Denali 1500
- ✔ 2012-2014 GMC Sierra 2500/3500 & Denali 2500/3500
- ✔ 2012-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- ✔ 2012-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500
- ✔ 2012-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500
- ✔ 2012-2014 Chevrolet Suburban 1500/2500
- ✔ 2012-2014 Chevrolet Tahoe
- ✔ 2012-2014 Cadillac Escalade, ESV, EXT
- ✔ 2012-2014 GMC Yukon & Yukon XL 1500
- ✔ 2012-2013 GMC Yukon XL 2500
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) allows us to program the BCM with the exact software and settings for your truck’s specific options, like keyless entry, power seats, and drivetrain. This ensures it works correctly right out of the box.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable job. The main challenge is accessing the module under the dashboard. No special tools are needed for the physical swap, but a professional scan tool may be required for post-install procedures if warning lights appear.
Will this fix my ‘Service StabiliTrak’ or ‘Service Traction Control’ message?
It’s possible. The BCM communicates with the traction control system. If the BCM is the root cause of the communication fault, replacing it can resolve these messages. However, these warnings can also be caused by other components like wheel speed sensors.
Do I have to send my old part back?
No. There is no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module.
What happens if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This indicates the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to your vehicle’s airbag module (SDM). A repair shop with a high-end diagnostic tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.