Are you tired of dealing with baffling electrical problems in your Chevrolet Equinox or other GM vehicle? Intermittent power windows, flickering lights, a car that won’t start, or a dashboard lit up with warning lights are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your vehicle’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause widespread and frustrating issues. This is a pre-programmed 2013-2017 Equinox BCM, offering a reliable and straightforward solution to get your vehicle back to perfect working order without an expensive trip to the dealership.
Over my 20 years in the garage, I’ve seen countless drivers spend a fortune chasing electrical gremlins, replacing batteries and alternators, only to find the root cause was the BCM all along. The problem is that a new BCM from the dealer requires costly, specialized programming to sync it with your vehicle’s keys and security system. Our service eliminates that entire headache. We provide a fully functional, tested BCM that is cloned directly from your original unit, ensuring it’s 100% plug-and-play upon arrival.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2015 Chevy Cruze that came into the shop with a truly bizarre set of symptoms. The owner complained that the radio would turn on by itself, the driver’s side window wouldn’t work, and the horn would honk randomly. The diagnostic scan showed a storm of U-codes (communication errors), pointing to a network issue. After checking the main CAN bus wiring and connectors, everything looked solid. We isolated the BCM, and that’s when we found the culprit. A small amount of water intrusion from a leaky cowl seal had corroded a few pins on the BCM connector, causing internal shorts. Replacing it with a cloned module like this one solved every single issue instantly. It’s a perfect example of how one component can create system-wide chaos.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a failing BCM is a likely suspect. A faulty module can disrupt communication between various electronic systems, leading to unpredictable behavior.
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security system preventing the engine from starting (anti-theft light flashing).
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights for ABS, Airbags, or Traction Control staying on.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss, such as U0100, U0140, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ Wipers or radio operating intermittently or not at all.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Our cloning service makes the physical swap simple. Here’s a general guide to replacing your 2013-2017 Equinox BCM. The module’s location varies by model (see fitment list), but is often found in the driver’s side dash or kick panel.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes before starting work.
- Locate the BCM: Find your original BCM. In the Equinox and Terrain, it’s typically on the left (driver’s) side of the dashboard.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be pressed or lifted. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your pre-programmed replacement BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical harnesses.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Post-Installation Checks: Start the vehicle and test all functions—lights, windows, locks, radio, etc. Note the post-install procedures below, as some recalibrations may be necessary.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service makes this a plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. Please be aware of the following potential procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag light is illuminated after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” function. This is only necessary if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be required to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
- No Core Charge: You can keep your original module as there is no core charge or need to return it.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. Always refer to a factory service manual or a certified technician for procedures specific to your make and model.
Verified Compatibility for Your Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part number 13589324 and is also compatible with part numbers 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, and 13589325. It fits a wide range of GM vehicles:
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2013-2017 (LH side dash)
- GMC Terrain: 2013-2017 (LH side dash)
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2013 (w/o opt ATH), 2014-2015, 2016 (Limited, VIN P) (LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2013 (LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Gasoline, left lower A-pillar)
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2014 (LH side of dash)
- Chevrolet Volt: 2013 (RH engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2013-2014 (Below center console)
- 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)
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, we transfer all the critical vehicle-specific data to the replacement unit. We then ship the ready-to-install BCM back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Is this really plug-and-play?
Yes. Because we clone the data from your original module, the replacement BCM is a direct plug-and-play part. It will recognize your existing keys and security settings, avoiding the need for expensive dealer programming.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In most cases, even if the BCM is failing, we can still extract the necessary data for cloning. If your module has severe water or fire damage, please contact us first to discuss options.
Do I need special tools for the installation?
No special tools are required for the physical installation itself, just basic hand tools like a socket set and screwdrivers to access the module. In some cases, a professional scan tool might be needed for post-installation procedures like the airbag system sync, but this is not always required.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This programmed 2013-2017 Equinox BCM is the definitive solution for issues caused by a faulty module. If your vehicle exhibits the symptoms listed above, and the BCM has been properly diagnosed as the cause, this part will resolve those problems.