Tired of Unpredictable Electrical Problems in Your GM Vehicle?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all. One minute your power windows work, the next they don’t. The security light flashes randomly, your interior lights have a mind of their own, or worse, the car won’t start. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central hub for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating issues. This is a common problem in many GM vehicles, but the fix doesn’t have to involve an expensive trip to the dealership.
We offer a simple, reliable, and cost-effective solution. This is a replacement BCM that comes pre-programmed with your vehicle’s exact data. By using our mail-in cloning service, you get a module that is truly plug-and-play. We transfer the critical information from your original BCM to this replacement unit, ensuring it communicates perfectly with your car’s other systems right out of the box. This process eliminates the need for costly dealer programming, key relearning, or special diagnostic tools for the initial setup.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2014 Chevy Cruze that came into the shop with a laundry list of bizarre symptoms. The owner complained that the radio would turn off, the door locks would cycle while driving, and the turn signals worked intermittently. There were no check engine lights, just a host of communication codes (U-codes) when I scanned it. After checking the main power and ground connections, my suspicion fell squarely on the BCM. Instead of a new, unprogrammed unit from the dealer which would have added hours of programming labor, we used a cloned BCM. The customer mailed us their original module, we performed the data transfer, and sent the new one back. The installation took the owner less than 30 minutes, and every single electrical gremlin was gone. It’s a testament to how effective this solution is for a complex problem.
Common Signs of a Failing Body Control Module
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security system light stays on or flashes, potentially causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ The horn honks unexpectedly or doesn’t work at all.
- ✔ Wipers operate randomly or won’t turn on/off.
- ✔ Communication error codes, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes, stored in the system.
- ✔ The instrument cluster displays incorrect information or warning lights flicker without reason.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your pre-programmed 2013-2014 Encore BCM is a manageable task for a DIYer. The key is our cloning service, which handles all the complex software work beforehand.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Locate Your BCM: On the Buick Encore, the BCM is typically found on the left (driver’s) side of the dash. For other models, its location can vary (e.g., LH kick panel, under the console). Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the exact position.
- Remove the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Most have a locking tab that needs to be pressed or lifted. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely fasten it. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Post-Installation Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions: lights, locks, windows, wipers, and radio. In most cases, everything will work perfectly. Please see the notes below for potential follow-up steps.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our programming makes this a plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a quick sync-up procedure:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a simple ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed. This requires a professional scan tool to sync the airbag module with the new BCM and clear the light.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On certain models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary to ensure the brake lights and traction control system function correctly.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct fit for the following vehicles and part numbers. Please match your part number to ensure compatibility. Our programming service makes this unit compatible with your specific vehicle’s options.
Part Numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, 13589325
- Buick Encore: 2013-2014 (LH side of dash)
- Buick Regal: 2013 (LH dash)
- Buick Verano: 2013-2017 (Below center of dash)
- Cadillac SRX: 2013 (LH dash)
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2013 (w/o opt ATH), 2014-2015, 2016 (Limited VIN P) (LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2013-2017 (LH side dash)
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2013 (LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2013-2014 (Below center console)
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Gasoline, left lower a-pillar)
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2014 (LH side of dash)
- Chevrolet Volt: 2013 (ID 13580697 or 13586273, RH engine compartment)
- GMC Terrain: 2013-2017 (LH side dash)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the mail-in programming service work?
After you place your order, we will contact you with simple instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians will clone the essential data to the replacement module and ship it back to you, usually within 1-2 business days.
Is this really plug-and-play? Will I need to go to the dealer?
Yes, for over 99% of installations, this is a completely plug-and-play solution. Because we clone your original data, the new BCM is already configured for your vehicle’s VIN, options, and key information, eliminating the need for dealer programming.
What if I install it and the airbag light comes on?
This is a known possibility. It simply means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag module. A technician with a bi-directional scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.
Do I need to send my keys with the module?
No, you do not need to send your keys. Our cloning process transfers the immobilizer and key data from your old module to the new one, so your existing keys will work perfectly upon installation.
Is there a core charge for my old BCM?
No, there is no core charge. We only need your original module to perform the data transfer service. You can keep your original module after the service is complete.