Tired of Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Vehicle?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all. Flickering interior lights, power windows with a mind of their own, a radio that cuts out randomly, or the dreaded ‘Service Theft System’ message that leaves you stranded. These frustrating and often difficult-to-diagnose issues frequently point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and security features, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of bizarre problems. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can affect vehicle security and safety systems.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2009 Chevy Equinox that came into my bay. The owner was at his wit’s end. He’d replaced the battery and checked fuses, but the dashboard would light up intermittently, and the anti-theft system would engage at random, preventing the car from starting. A quick scan showed a slew of U-codes (communication errors) between various modules. This is a classic sign that the central hub—the BCM—is failing. Instead of a costly diagnostic path at the dealership, we replaced it with a VIN-programmed unit like this one. The problems vanished instantly. This is the definitive fix that saves you from chasing electrical ghosts.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These BCM Failure Signs?
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not working at all.
- ✔ Horn sounding unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ ‘Service Theft System’ or ‘Security’ light illuminated, often causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Malfunctioning radio, climate controls, or instrument cluster gauges.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or U0164.
- ✔ Wipers activating on their own or not responding to the switch.
The Smart Solution: A Pre-Programmed BCM
The biggest hurdle in replacing a BCM has always been the expensive programming required at a dealership. We eliminate that step completely. When you purchase this module, simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians will flash the unit with the latest GM-certified software specific to your car or truck. This ensures that all the options and security features your vehicle came with from the factory will work correctly right out of the box. You get a reliable part that’s ready for installation, saving you hundreds in dealer fees and towing costs. Plus, there’s no core charge, so you can keep your old part.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait about 10 minutes to ensure all modules have powered down.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: The location varies by model. Common spots include behind the driver’s side or passenger’s side of the dashboard, under the steering column, or in the center console area. A quick search for your specific model will confirm its location.
- ✔ 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 Module: Seat the new, pre-programmed BCM into the mounting bracket 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 (without starting the engine) and test your electronics: windows, locks, lights, and radio. Once confirmed, start the vehicle.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our programming handles the heavy lifting, some vehicles require a final handshake between modules after installation. Be aware of these potential procedures:
- ✔ Airbag System Sync: If your airbag/SRS warning light is on after installation, a simple ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure may be needed. This requires a bi-directional scan tool and syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- ✔ Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary for proper brake light and traction control operation. This can also be performed with a professional scan tool.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. Always refer to a factory service manual or a certified technician for procedures specific to your make and model.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This Body Control Module is a direct replacement for a wide array of GM cars, trucks, and SUVs. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below and that your original part number is listed. This part is compatible with 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.
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 1500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08-12
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08-12
G8 08-09
HUMMER H2 08-09
IMPALA 06-13
LUCERNE 06-11
MONTE CARLO 06-07
OUTLOOK 07-10
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08-12
SAVANA 3500 VAN 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
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN number?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions to reply with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we receive your VIN, as the programming is specific to your vehicle.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Yes, for the vast majority of vehicles. Because we program it to your VIN, it arrives ready to be installed without needing a trip to the dealer. In some rare cases, minor relearn procedures for systems like the airbags or brake sensor may be required, as noted above.
Do I need to return my old BCM?
No. This product comes with absolutely no core charge. You are free to keep or dispose of your original module.
Will this fix my ‘Service Theft System’ problem?
In most cases, yes. A failing BCM is one of the most common causes for anti-theft system malfunctions in these GM vehicles. This programmed module restores the correct communication and security handshake.
What if I have questions during installation?
We are committed to your success. While we cannot provide vehicle-specific instructions for every model, our expert team is here to answer questions about the module itself. We recommend having a service manual for your vehicle on hand.