Restore Full Electrical Function to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 2008-2012 Savana 1500 Van experiencing a host of bizarre electrical problems? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a temperamental security system, or dashboard warning lights that have a mind of their own? As a technician with over two decades of diagnostic experience, I’ve seen these exact issues countless times. The culprit is almost always a failing Body Control Module (BCM), the central command center for your vehicle’s electronic accessories.
When the BCM goes down, it can feel like your reliable workhorse is falling apart. But the solution is simpler and more affordable than a trip to the dealership. This is a direct-replacement BCM, offered with a professional cloning service. We take the essential data from your original module and transfer it to this replacement unit. It arrives at your door programmed with the latest GM software updates and specific to your vehicle’s VIN, ready for installation.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Erratic Work Van
I remember a plumbing contractor who brought his 2011 Savana 2500 into the shop. His complaint was a laundry list of frustrations: the interior lights wouldn’t turn off, draining the battery overnight; the driver’s side power lock was dead; and the radio would randomly shut off. He was losing work time and was worried about the cost of a dealership repair. After confirming power and grounds were good, my scanner pointed to a communication breakdown originating from the BCM. These modules, often located in the center dash, are susceptible to failure from voltage spikes or simple electronic fatigue. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM just like this one, and in under an hour, every single one of his electrical gremlins was gone. He was back on the road to his next job, saving hundreds compared to the dealer quote.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights (headlights, dome lights, brake lights).
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ The security system engaging randomly or preventing the vehicle from starting.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like Airbag or ABS) illuminating for no reason.
- ✔ Radio or climate control systems malfunctioning.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to communication loss, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes for the system to fully discharge.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On most Savana and Express vans, the Body Control Module is located behind the center dash area, often near the bottom of the instrument panel. Access may require removing a few trim panels.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount the new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Securely plug in all electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service makes this a near plug-and-play repair, some GM vehicles require a final handshake between modules. Be aware of the following potential procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on 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 some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be required to ensure your brake lights and traction control function correctly.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. Always have a factory service manual available for your specific model or consult with a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and interchanges with numerous part numbers. Please verify your original part number against the list below. This part is confirmed to fit the following models, among others:
Fitment Includes:
• 2008-2012 Savana 1500 Van
• 2008-2012 Express 1500 Van
• 2008-2012 Savana / Express 2500 & 3500 Vans
• 2007-2012 Acadia
• 2010 Avalanche 1500
• 2011-2013 Caprice
• 2012 Captiva Sport
• 2008-2013 CTS
• 2006-2011 DTS
• 2008-2012 Enclave
• 2010 Escalade, ESV, EXT
• 2008-2009 Hummer H2
• 2006-2013 Impala
• 2006-2011 Lucerne
• 2006-2007 Monte Carlo
• 2010 Suburban 1500
• 2010 Tahoe
• 2009-2012 Traverse
• 2010 Yukon / Yukon XL 1500
…and many more. Please match your part number to ensure compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send my original BCM to you?
Yes. This is a cloning service. After you place your order, you will need to ship your original Body Control Module to us. We extract the necessary vehicle-specific data, program the replacement unit, and then ship BOTH modules back to you.
What is the benefit of this cloning service?
The main benefit is avoiding expensive dealership programming. A new BCM from a dealer is a blank slate and requires their proprietary tools to program, often costing several hundred dollars. Our service delivers a module that is already programmed for your VIN, making the installation much simpler and more cost-effective.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
For most vehicles, yes. Once you receive the programmed module from us, you simply install it. However, as noted above, some GM vehicles may require an additional ‘relearn’ or ‘sync’ procedure for systems like the airbags, which requires a professional scan tool.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module will correct issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. If you are experiencing symptoms like erratic lights, power accessory failure, and communication error codes, a failing BCM is the most likely cause. Proper vehicle diagnosis is always recommended before ordering.
What if my original part number is not on your list but my vehicle is?
Please contact us with your vehicle’s VIN and original part number before ordering. GM uses many interchangeable numbers, and we can verify compatibility for you to ensure you receive the correct part.