Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain, Not Your Bank Account
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand the chaos a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can cause. Your 2012 Chevrolet Orlando might feel like it’s possessedāwindows operating on their own, dashboard lights flickering like a holiday display, or worse, a no-start condition that leaves you stranded. These aren’t random glitches; they’re classic signs that the central command center for your vehicle’s electronics is failing. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a matter of reliability and safety.
Forget the expensive trip to the dealership and the hassle of programming a new module from scratch. We offer a simple, effective solution: a replacement BCM, part number 13586856, that is professionally programmed with the data from your original unit. This cloning service makes the replacement process as close to plug-and-play as it gets, getting you back on the road with confidence and saving you hundreds of dollars in programming fees.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2011 Chevy Equinox (which uses a nearly identical BCM to the Orlando) that came into my shop with a truly baffling set of symptoms. The owner complained that the radio would turn off randomly, the driver’s side power window wouldn’t work, and the security light would stay on, preventing the car from starting intermittently. He’d already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw a slew of U-codes (communication errors) pointing to a network failure. The culprit wasn’t a wiring issue, but an internally failing BCM that was corrupting the data bus. By cloning his original BCM to a quality replacement, we solved all the electrical gremlins in one shot, saving him from a costly and frustrating diagnostic goose chase at the dealer.
Common Signs Your GM BCM is Failing
A BCM failure can manifest in numerous ways, as it controls a wide array of vehicle functions. If you’re noticing any of the following, your BCM is the likely suspect. Look out for associated Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like U0140, U0155, or other communication faults.
- ā Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior/exterior lights.
- ā The security or anti-theft system light stays illuminated, often causing a no-start condition.
- ā Wipers or radio turning on and off by themselves.
- ā Inaccurate gauge readings on the instrument cluster.
- ā Warning lights for the airbag (SRS) or traction control system appearing without a clear cause.
- ā Complete loss of communication with the module, preventing diagnostics.
Your Step-by-Step BCM Replacement Guide
Installing your pre-programmed 2012 Orlando BCM is a straightforward process. For the Orlando, the BCM is located below the center console. While specific steps can vary slightly, this guide covers the general procedure for a DIY-er with basic tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Access the Module: Carefully remove the trim panels around the center console to gain access to the BCM. Consult a vehicle-specific guide if you’re unsure which panels to remove.
- Disconnect and Remove: Unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the Replacement: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Reconnect all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reassemble and Reconnect: Put the console trim panels back in place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and verify that all electronic functions (lights, windows, locks, etc.) are working correctly. Note the post-installation procedures below, as some may be required.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our programming service handles the critical vehicle data, some GM vehicles require a final handshake between modules after installation. Be aware of the following:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag light is on after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This syncs the airbag system with the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be necessary to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
- No Core Charge: You are not required to send your old BCM back to us. There is no core charge or deposit associated with this purchase.
Verified Fitment Across GM Models
This BCM is a direct fit for the 2012 Orlando BCM and is also compatible with a wide range of other General Motors vehicles. It replaces part numbers 13583450, 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13586856, and others listed below. Please verify your part number and vehicle model to ensure compatibility.
- Buick LaCrosse (2011-2012)
- Buick Regal (2011)
- Cadillac SRX (2011-2012)
- Chevrolet Camaro (2011)
- Chevrolet Cruze (2012)
- Chevrolet Equinox (2011)
- Chevrolet Orlando (2012)
- Chevrolet Volt (2011, 2013)
- GMC Terrain (2011)
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance specific to your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
After you purchase, we will provide instructions for you to ship your original BCM to us. We then extract the vehicle-specific data and transfer it to the replacement module. This ensures it works with your existing keys and vehicle options without any additional programming.
Do I need to send my original BCM?
Yes. This service requires your original module to clone the necessary security and configuration data. This process makes the replacement a true plug-and-play solution.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This part is a direct solution for a failed BCM. If your vehicle exhibits the symptoms listed, such as erratic electronics or communication DTCs, this module is the most likely solution. Proper diagnosis is always recommended.
What is the turnaround time?
Once we receive your original BCM, we typically program and ship the replacement unit within 1-2 business days. We will send you tracking information as soon as it ships.
What if my airbag light comes on after installation?
This can happen on some GM vehicles. It simply means the airbag module (SDM) needs to be electronically synced with the new BCM. This is a simple procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ that can be performed by a shop with a professional-grade diagnostic tool.
Is there a core charge?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your original module after you’ve received the programmed replacement from us.