Restore Control Over Your Vehicle’s Electronics
Are you battling a storm of bizarre electrical problems in your GM vehicle? Flickering interior lights, power windows with a mind of their own, a security system that won’t cooperate, or a battery that’s mysteriously dead every morning? As an expert with over 20 years of hands-on diagnostic experience, I can tell you these aren’t separate issues—they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features. When it fails, it creates chaos. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can affect vehicle security and drivability.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We take the biggest headache out of the repair process: programming. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will program this GM Body Control Module with the latest GM software specific to your car, truck, or van. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you a costly trip to the dealership and eliminating the need for expensive scan tools for programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
Just last month, a 2009 Chevy Equinox was towed to my shop. The owner was frustrated—he’d replaced the battery twice, but it kept dying overnight. His power locks worked intermittently, and the radio would sometimes stay on after he’d shut the car off. A quick scan showed a flurry of communication codes, including a U0140 (Lost Communication with Body Control Module). Instead of just throwing parts at it, we performed a parasitic draw test and traced the drain directly to the BCM circuit. The module wasn’t ‘sleeping’ correctly, keeping other systems awake and draining the battery. Installing a pre-programmed BCM like this one solved all the issues in one shot. The customer was back on the road the same day, without the multi-day wait and high bill from a dealership.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is exhibiting any of these symptoms, a faulty BCM is the likely culprit. Diagnosing these can be tricky because they seem unrelated, but they all run through this central module.
- ✔ Power windows, mirrors, or door locks operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system malfunctioning, causing no-start conditions.
- ✔ Unexplained parasitic battery drain leading to a dead battery.
- ✔ Horn sounding unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or B1001.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing your GM Body Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Following these steps will ensure a smooth process. Remember, this module comes programmed, but post-installation procedures are critical for safety systems.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: The location varies by model (see fitment list). It’s typically found under the driver’s side or center of the dashboard, or behind a kick panel.
- Remove Trim Panels: Carefully remove any plastic trim or panels necessary to access the BCM. Use a trim removal tool to avoid breaking clips.
- Disconnect and Remove: Unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the old module and remove it.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely fasten it. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- Perform Key Procedures (CRITICAL): After reconnecting the battery, you MUST perform a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure using a compatible high-end scan tool. This is required to clear the airbag light and ensure the safety system is operational.
- Check Brake System: Some vehicles require a Brake Pedal Position Sensor recalibration after BCM replacement. Test your brakes carefully and consult a service manual or professional if you notice any change in pedal feel or performance.
- Test All Functions: Before reassembling the trim, test all body functions: lights, locks, windows, horn, and wipers to confirm the repair was successful.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number and model from the list below. This unit replaces 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 (ID 25892622)
CAPRICE 11-13
CAPTIVA SPORT 12
CTS 08-13
DTS 06-11
ENCLAVE 08-12
EQUINOX 07-09
ESCALADE 10 (ID 20815898 or 25892622)
ESCALADE ESV 10 (ID 20815898 or 25892622)
ESCALADE EXT 10 (ID 25892622)
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 (ID 20815898 or 25892622)
TAHOE 10 (ID 20815898 or 25892622)
TORRENT 07-09
TRAVERSE 09-12
VUE 08-10
YUKON 10 (ID 20815898 or 25892622)
YUKON XL 1500 10 (ID 20815898 or 25892622)
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a Body Control Module do?
The BCM is a computer that manages many of your vehicle’s non-engine related functions. This includes power windows, power locks, interior and exterior lighting, the security system, wipers, and horn, among others. It’s the command center for passenger comfort and convenience.
Why do you need my VIN to sell me this part?
Every GM vehicle has specific software and options. Providing your VIN allows us to program the BCM with the exact software configuration for your vehicle’s features. This ensures it works correctly right out of the box, a service dealerships charge hundreds for.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
While the physical installation is plug-and-play and our programming handles the software, there are critical post-installation steps. You will need a capable scan tool to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure to sync the BCM with the airbag system. Some models may also need a brake pedal sensor recalibration. These steps are essential for safety.
Will a new BCM fix my ‘Service Theft System’ light?
In many cases, yes. The BCM is integral to the Pass-Key or Pass-Lock anti-theft system. A failing BCM is a very common cause of security system errors and no-start conditions. This pre-programmed module is designed to restore that functionality.
What happens if I don’t do the airbag (SDM) key setup?
If you skip this step, the airbag warning light will remain illuminated on your dashboard, and more importantly, the supplemental restraint system (airbags) may not function correctly in the event of a collision. This is a critical safety procedure, not an optional one.