Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Truck?
If your Silverado, Sierra, or Tahoe is acting possessed—with flickering lights, a dead HVAC system, or random warning messages—you’re not alone. These frustrating and often intermittent issues typically point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central command for your vehicle’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause chaos. This replacement module, part number 15878753, is the definitive solution, arriving pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN for a true plug-and-play repair that restores full functionality and peace of mind.
Case Study: The 2011 Sierra with a Mind of Its Own
A customer brought in an ’11 Sierra 2500 that was a diagnostic nightmare. The radio would turn on and off, the driver’s side window worked only when it wanted to, and the airbag light (with a persistent DTC B1001) would not clear. After checking the usual suspects, we inspected the BCM. While the module itself was failing internally, the root cause was a corroded ground strap near the driver’s side kick panel—a common issue in these trucks. We replaced the ground and installed a new programmed 2013 Silverado 3500 BCM (the same part fits his Sierra). The new module immediately solved all the accessory problems, and a quick SDM key sync with our scanner cleared the airbag light for good. It’s a reminder: always check your grounds during the swap!
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔️ Power windows, door locks, or interior/exterior lights behaving erratically or not working at all.
- ✔️ HVAC blower motor or climate controls are inoperative or function intermittently.
- ✔️ The anti-theft or security system malfunctions, causing no-start or stalling conditions.
- ✔️ An active airbag warning light on the dash, often with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1001.
- ✔️ A cluster of seemingly unrelated electrical issues that defy simple diagnosis.
- ✔️ Communication errors with other modules on the vehicle’s network.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Getting your truck back in order is easier than you think. This repair requires no special skills and can be done in your driveway in minutes. For a successful installation of your new 2013 Silverado 3500 BCM, follow these steps:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the Module: The BCM is typically found under the driver’s side dashboard, near the steering column. You may need to remove a lower dash panel for access.
- Swap the Part: Carefully unplug the wiring harnesses from the old BCM. They use locking tabs, so be gentle. Remove any mounting screws or clips holding it in place, then install the new module and reconnect the harnesses securely.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all functions: lights, windows, locks, wipers, and the HVAC system.
- Post-Install Check: In some cases, the airbag light may remain on. This is normal and requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure using a compatible high-end diagnostic scanner to sync the systems.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 15878753 and other interchangeable numbers, ensuring a perfect fit for a wide range of General Motors trucks and SUVs. Please verify your model and year from the list below.
ESCALADE 07-11
ESCALADE ESV 07-11
ESCALADE EXT 07-11
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07-11
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 07-11, 13
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 07-11, 13
SIERRA DENALI 07-10
SIERRA DENALI 1500 11
SIERRA DENALI 2500 11, 13
SIERRA DENALI 3500 11, 13
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07-11
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 07-11, 13
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 07-11, 13
SUBURBAN 1500 07-11
SUBURBAN 2500 07-11
TAHOE 07-11
YUKON 07-11
YUKON XL 1500 07-11
YUKON XL 2500 07-11
Note: For 2007 models, this fits the ‘new style’ with a smooth door skin. Some 2010 and 2013 models require matching ID 25835966.
Frequently Asked Questions
2013 Silverado 3500 BCM
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module corrects issues directly controlled by the BCM, including lights, locks, windows, security, and HVAC. While it is the most common cause for these symptoms, always ensure your vehicle has been properly diagnosed. A faulty is a very common failure point.