Tired of Bizarre Electrical Problems in Your GM Vehicle?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all. Flickering dashboard lights, power windows with a mind of their own, a key fob that works one minute and not the next, or worse—a car that refuses to start for no apparent reason. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re classic symptoms of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and security features, and when it starts to go, it can feel like your car is haunted. This is a direct, reliable solution for your 2011-2012 LaCrosse BCM and a wide range of other GM models.
What Makes Our BCM Service Different?
Forget the hassle and expense of a dealership visit. A new BCM off the shelf won’t work—it needs to be programmed with your car’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and RPO codes. Dealerships charge a premium for this service. We simplify the entire process. You send us your original BCM, and we professionally transfer all of its critical data to this replacement unit. The module you receive back will be 100% plug-and-play, tailored specifically to your vehicle’s existing configuration. It’s the most seamless and cost-effective way to get your car back to perfect working order.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Confused Camaro
A customer brought in an ’11 Camaro convertible with a frustrating list of intermittent issues. The radio would randomly shut off, the interior lights would stay on, and the convertible top would sometimes refuse to operate. He’d already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I saw a slew of communication errors (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and hours of programming, we used a cloned BCM. The customer sent us his faulty unit, we transferred the data, and sent the replacement back. He installed it in under 30 minutes in his own garage. All the electrical gremlins vanished. This is the power of a properly programmed module.
Common Signs of a Failing Body Control Module
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors behaving erratically or not working at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on, flickering, or failing to turn on.
- ✔ The security system engaging randomly, causing a no-start condition (Security light on).
- ✔ Keyless entry remote (key fob) not being recognized by the vehicle.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to communication, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your programmed BCM is a simple process. Since we’ve handled all the complex programming, you’re left with a direct physical swap. The BCM in the 2011-2012 LaCrosse is typically located in the driver’s side (LH) kick panel area.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On most models like the LaCrosse or Cruze, this is behind the kick panel to the left of the brake pedal. For others like the Volt, it may be in the engine compartment. Consult a vehicle-specific guide if you’re unsure.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be pressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Test Functionality: Start the vehicle and test all the functions that were previously malfunctioning—windows, locks, lights, radio, etc.
Important Post-Installation Information
In some cases, your vehicle may require a simple relearn procedure after the BCM is installed. This is standard and can sometimes be necessary to sync related systems.
- 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 compatible scan tool. This is only needed if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be required on certain models.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This BCM is a direct replacement for several part numbers and fits a wide variety of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. Compatible part numbers include: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, and 13583451.
- 2011-2012 Buick LaCrosse
- 2011-2013 Chevrolet Volt
- 2011-2012 Cadillac SRX
- 2011 GMC Terrain
- 2011 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2011 Chevrolet Camaro (Convertible)
- 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
- 2012 Chevrolet Orlando
- 2011 Buick Regal
Note: Location and specific IDs can vary. Please reference the original part number on your module.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this cloning service?
You ship your original, faulty BCM to us. We then extract the unique programming and security data and flash it onto this replacement module. This makes the new part a perfect match for your car, avoiding any need for dealership programming.
Is this really plug-and-play?
Yes, 99% of the time. Because we transfer your vehicle’s exact data, the replacement BCM will work immediately upon installation. In rare cases, a minor relearn procedure like for the brake pedal sensor may be needed.
How long does the service take?
Once we receive your original module, our programming service is typically completed within 1-2 business days. We then ship the programmed replacement back to you and provide tracking information.
Do I need to send my keys?
No, you do not need to send your keys. All the necessary immobilizer and key data is stored within your original BCM, which is what we transfer.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or unreadable?
In most cases, even with significant internal failure, we can still retrieve the necessary data. If for some reason your module is completely unreadable, we will contact you to discuss options, which may include a full refund.
Is there a core charge?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your original module after you receive the programmed replacement from us.