If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your Chevrolet Cruze—like power windows with a mind of their own, flickering lights, or a car that refuses to start—you’ve likely met the culprit: 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. The BCM is the central hub for your car’s body electronics, and when it fails, chaos ensues.
Dealerships will quote you a hefty price for a new module, followed by mandatory, expensive programming. Our solution bypasses that completely. We offer a professional cloning service for your 2013 Cruze BCM. You simply ship us your original module, and we transfer all its vital information—your vehicle’s specific VIN, security keys, and optional features—directly onto this replacement unit. We then ship it back to you, ready for a true plug-and-play installation. No dealer visits, no extra programming fees, just a straightforward fix that gets you back on the road.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Cruze That Wouldn’t Cooperate
A customer brought in a 2013 Cruze with a laundry list of complaints: the radio would cut out, the driver’s side window wouldn’t roll down, and occasionally, the key fob wouldn’t work. They had already replaced the battery and checked fuses. My initial scan showed a flurry of communication error codes (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of a dead module, it was intermittently failing, causing network-wide disruptions. By providing a cloned 2013 Cruze BCM, we restored all functions in under an hour of shop time post-delivery, saving the customer hundreds compared to the dealer’s quote and the hassle of reprogramming keys.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, your BCM is the likely suspect:
- ✔ Erratic operation of power windows, door locks, or interior lighting.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light stays on, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights illuminating for no reason.
- ✔ Communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as U0140, U0155, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ Complete loss of power to multiple accessory systems at once.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your programmed BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer. Here’s a typical process:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: In the 2013 Cruze, the BCM is typically found behind the driver’s side kick panel, near the fuse box.
- Remove the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Seat your newly programmed BCM into the mounting bracket and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Test All Functions: Start the vehicle and test your lights, windows, locks, horn, and other accessories to confirm proper operation.
Post-Installation Procedures
Our cloning service makes this as close to plug-and-play as possible, but in some GM vehicles, a couple of quick relearn procedures may be needed after installation. This is normal and ensures all related systems are in sync.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a technician will need to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure with a capable scan tool. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure accurate brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be required. This is also done with a professional diagnostic tool.
Disclaimer: Specific procedures can vary by vehicle. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM and programming service is compatible with a range of GM vehicles. Please match your original part number to one in the list below to ensure perfect fitment. This module is a direct replacement for part numbers: 13577850, 13505326, 13500384, 13574844, 13504004, 13504494, and 13578420.
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2011, 2013
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2010
- GMC Terrain: 2010, 2011
- Buick Regal: 2011
- Cadillac SRX: 2010
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2013 Cruze BCM
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cloning process work after I order?
After you place your order, we will contact you with detailed instructions and a shipping address. You’ll send us your original BCM. Once we receive it, we perform the data transfer to the replacement module and ship it back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Do I need to send my keys or any other parts?
No, we only need your original Body Control Module. Since we are cloning the data that is already paired with your keys, you will not need to send them.
Is this really plug-and-play? Will I need a scan tool?
Yes, our service makes the module itself plug-and-play. It will start the car and operate basic functions immediately. However, as noted, some vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure for the airbag or brake pedal sensor, which requires a professional scan tool.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or unreadable?
In most cases, even with significant damage (like water intrusion), we can still retrieve the necessary data. If for some reason the data is completely unrecoverable, we will contact you to discuss options, which may include a full refund.
Do I need to return my old BCM after I receive the new one?
No, there is no core charge for this service. We only need your original module to perform the data transfer. You can keep your original module after the service is complete.