Finally, A Real Fix for Your Truck’s Electrical Headaches
Is your 2003-2007 GMC Sierra 1500 or other GM truck suffering from bizarre electrical issues? Maybe the A/C and heat controls have a mind of their own, the power locks work intermittently, or you’re staring at a frustrating airbag light that won’t go away. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). This module is the electronic brain for your truck’s comfort and convenience features, and when it goes bad, it can make your reliable vehicle feel unpredictable. This replacement Body Control Module, interchangeable with part number 15137395, is the definitive solution. We pre-program it to your truck’s VIN, so it’s ready for a true plug-and-play installation right out of the box—no expensive trip to the dealership required.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Spooky Sierra
I remember a 2006 Sierra 1500 that came into my bay last winter. The owner was at his wit’s end. His blower motor would only work on high, his radio presets would vanish, and twice the truck refused to start, leaving him stranded. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw a handful of communication codes and a specific B1001 DTC related to the SDM. In my 20+ years of experience, this pattern screams BCM failure. The internal circuits and solder joints on these modules, especially the early 2000s models, can degrade over time, causing poor communication between the various systems it controls. We installed a VIN-programmed BCM, and within 10 minutes, every single issue was resolved. This isn’t just a part swap; it’s restoring the vehicle’s central nervous system.
Is Your Sierra Showing These Signs of BCM Failure?
Diagnosing a faulty BCM can be tricky, as symptoms often overlap with other issues. However, if your truck is experiencing several of the following, the BCM is the most likely culprit. A failing 2003-2007 Sierra 1500 BCM will often cause:
- ✔ Complete loss of heating and air conditioning (HVAC) controls, or a blower motor that works erratically.
- ✔ An illuminated airbag warning light, often accompanied by Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like B1001 (Option Configuration Error).
- ✔ Unresponsive power windows, door locks, or interior/exterior lights that flicker or don’t work at all.
- ✔ Security system malfunctions, including the vehicle not recognizing the key, leading to a no-start condition.
- ✔ Erratic instrument cluster behavior or warning messages that appear for no reason.
A Straightforward 5-Minute Installation Guide
You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to install this part. The process is simple and requires basic hand tools, saving you time and money on labor costs.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s systems.
- Locate the BCM: On most Sierra, Silverado, and Tahoe/Yukon models, the BCM is located under the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the steering column. It’s a black plastic box with several large multi-pin connectors.
- Swap the Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. 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 reconnect all the electrical connectors. You’ll hear a click as they lock into place.
- Power Up: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all functions—lights, windows, HVAC, etc.—to confirm the repair.
- Post-Installation Notes: In some cases, an airbag light may remain on. This requires a professional scan tool to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. Additionally, some models may require a Brake Pedal Position Relearn. These are simple procedures for any qualified technician if needed.
Verified Fitment for Your General Motors Vehicle
This Body Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM trucks, vans, and SUVs. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below. It is a compatible replacement for part numbers 10383536, 15116066, 15136225, 15136877, 15137393, 15137394, 15137395, 15137396, 15198116, and more.
AVALANCHE 2500 02-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
ESCALADE & ESV & EXT 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
HUMMER H2 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), Crew Cab
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SIERRA DENALI 03-07 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Body Control (BCM); classic style (creased door skin), (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), Crew Cab
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column), crew cab
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
TAHOE 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
YUKON & YUKON XL 1500/2500 03-06 Body Control (BCM); (under steering column)
EXPRESS/SAVANA VANS 04-07 Body Control (BCM); (center dash), w/commercial tradesman package (opt PRP)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to program this BCM at the dealership?
No. We handle the programming for you. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, and the module will arrive ready to install, saving you hundreds in dealership fees.
What does a Body Control Module do on a 2003-2007 Sierra 1500?
The BCM acts as a central computer for your truck’s body electronics. It controls functions like interior and exterior lighting, power windows and locks, the security system, wipers, and the HVAC system.
My airbag light came on after installation. Is the part defective?
No, this is a normal possibility. The new BCM needs to be electronically ‘shaken hands’ with the airbag’s computer (SDM). This is done with a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure using a professional scan tool.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
Absolutely not. There is no core charge, so you can keep your old module without any hassle or extra cost.
Will this fix my no-start problem?
If your no-start issue is caused by the factory security system (Passlock) not recognizing the key due to a faulty BCM, then yes, this will resolve the problem.