If your GM vehicle is suddenly plagued by a host of bizarre electrical issues—like power windows with a mind of their own, dashboard lights flickering like a disco ball, or a security system that prevents you from starting your own car—the culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty BCM can turn a reliable vehicle into a source of daily frustration. It’s the central nervous system for your car’s accessories, and when it goes haywire, the symptoms can be maddeningly inconsistent.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution. We take the biggest headache out of the repair process: the programming. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, and we’ll program this BCM with the latest GM software specifically for your car or truck. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming, saving you both time and money. You’re getting a component that’s ready to be installed right out of the box, restoring the functionality you depend on every day.
Is Your GM Acting Possessed? Common BCM Failure Signs
- ✔ Power windows or door locks operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lamps staying on or not turning on.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system activating randomly, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or wipers activating on their own.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing for seemingly unrelated systems.
- ✔ Communication error codes, such as U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module), stored in other modules.
- ✔ Inconsistent or non-functional remote keyless entry.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Phantom Battery Drain
A customer brought in their 2011 GMC Acadia, completely frustrated. Every few days, the battery would be dead. They’d replaced the battery twice, but the problem persisted. After connecting my diagnostic scanner, I noticed the BCM wasn’t letting other modules go to ‘sleep’ after the ignition was off. It was creating a parasitic draw that slowly drained the battery overnight. Swapping in a correctly programmed GM Body Control Module was the definitive fix. The vehicle’s modules could finally power down correctly, and the battery drain problem was solved for good.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Swap
While the BCM’s location varies by model, the replacement process is generally manageable for a DIYer with basic tools. Always consult a service manual for your specific vehicle’s location and torque specs.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the BCM: On most of these GM models, the BCM is located under the driver’s side or center of the dashboard. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unplug all electrical harness connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt or unclip the old BCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in place and securely reconnect all the electrical connectors.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions (lights, locks, windows, etc.). Follow the post-installation procedures noted below if any warning lights appear.
Important Post-Installation Information
Because this GM Body Control Module is pre-programmed, most functions should work immediately. However, in some cases, your vehicle may require one of the following relearn procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag (SRS) warning light is illuminated after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed. This requires a professional-grade scan tool to sync the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On certain models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be necessary to ensure correct brake light operation and to prevent issues with the traction control system.
- No Core Charge: You are not required to return your old BCM. This saves you the hassle and cost of a core return.
Guaranteed To Fit The Following Part Numbers:
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of original part numbers, including: 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, and 95151084.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This GM Body Control Module is confirmed to fit the following vehicles. Please verify your model and any specific options (like part number ID) noted below:
- ACADIA 07-12
- AVALANCHE 1500 10 (ID 25892622)
- CAPRICE 11-13
- CAPTIVA SPORT 12 (ID 20921435, 20921436, 22860591)
- CTS 08-13
- DTS 06-11
- ENCLAVE 08-12
- EQUINOX 07-09
- ESCALADE 10 (ID 20815898, 25892622)
- ESCALADE ESV 10 (ID 20815898, 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, 25892622)
- TAHOE 10 (ID 20815898, 25892622)
- TORRENT 07-09
- TRAVERSE 09-12
- VUE 08-10
- YUKON 10 (ID 20815898, 25892622)
- YUKON XL 1500 10 (ID 20815898, 25892622)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Body Control Module (BCM) do?
The BCM is a computer that manages many of your vehicle’s non-engine related functions. This includes power windows, door locks, interior and exterior lighting, wipers, the security system, and more. It’s the command center for passenger comfort and convenience features.
Why do you need my VIN number?
Every GM vehicle has specific software and option configurations. By programming the BCM to your VIN, we ensure it has the exact software your vehicle left the factory with. This prevents compatibility issues and makes the installation process much smoother, avoiding a mandatory trip to the dealer.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, this is a very manageable job. The main challenge is typically accessing the module, which is usually located under the dashboard. Our pre-programming service handles the most complex part of the job for you.
What if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is an infrequent but known possibility. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag’s computer (SDM). A repair shop with a professional scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.
Do I have to send my old BCM back?
No. There is no core charge or requirement to return your original part. You can keep it or dispose of it as you see fit.