Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play BCM
Is your 2013 Chevrolet Volt or another compatible GM vehicle acting possessed? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security system that won’t cooperate, or even a frustrating no-start condition are all classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central computer for your car’s comfort and convenience features, a faulty BCM can turn your daily drive into a nightmare of unpredictable electrical gremlins. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can be a significant safety issue. Don’t let a failing module keep you off the road or force you into an expensive dealership visit.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Confused Camaro
A customer brought in an ’11 Camaro convertible with a wild set of symptoms. The radio would randomly shut off, the interior lights would stay on, and the power top wouldn’t operate. They had already replaced the battery, thinking it was a simple power issue. After connecting my scan tool, I saw multiple communication loss codes (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and hours of programming at the dealer, we used a cloning service just like this one. We sent out his original BCM, got the programmed replacement back, and installed it in under 30 minutes. The car’s electrical systems immediately returned to normal. This service is a game-changer for both shops and DIYers.
Common Signs of a Failing Body Control Module
If you’re experiencing any of the issues below, a failing BCM is the likely culprit. This programmed 2013 Volt BCM is the reliable solution to restore full functionality.
- ✔ Unresponsive or erratic power door locks, windows, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights that flicker, stay on, or don’t work at all.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Vehicle security system malfunctions, causing false alarms or preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like ABS or Airbag) illuminating without a clear cause.
- ✔ Communication error codes (U-codes) stored in the vehicle’s diagnostic system.
- ✔ Wipers operating intermittently or not parking in the correct position.
Your Step-by-Step BCM Installation Guide
Our cloning service makes the physical installation straightforward. By transferring your vehicle’s original data to this replacement module, we eliminate the need for dealer-level programming tools. You get a true plug-and-play solution.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2013 Volt, the BCM is located in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment. For other models, its location can vary (e.g., under the dash, in the kick panel). Refer to a service manual for your specific vehicle.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all electrical connectors from the old BCM. Note their orientation. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Securely reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it securely.
- Test Functionality: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, wipers, etc.—to confirm the repair was successful.
- Post-Install Procedures: In some cases, you may need to perform a relearn procedure. If the airbag light is on, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ function. A ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn’ may also be required for proper brake light and traction control operation.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This BCM, identified by part numbers like 13501739 and 13583450, is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your original part number or consult the list below. This service restores functionality for the following models and more:
- Chevrolet Volt (2011-2013)
- Chevrolet Camaro (2011)
- Chevrolet Cruze (2012)
- Chevrolet Equinox (2011)
- Chevrolet Orlando (2012)
- Buick LaCrosse (2011-2012)
- Buick Regal (2011)
- Cadillac SRX (2011-2012)
- GMC Terrain (2011)
This module is compatible with part numbers: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, 13583451.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
After you purchase, we will provide instructions for shipping your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians will extract the unique vehicle data and flash it onto the replacement module. We then ship the plug-and-play replacement back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Is this a plug-and-play solution?
Yes. Because we clone the data from your original BCM, the replacement module will be ready to install without any additional programming or trips to the dealership. It will work with your existing keys and vehicle settings.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM is failing, we can still retrieve the necessary data. Please contact us before ordering if your module is severely damaged by water or fire, or if it cannot be read by a diagnostic scan tool.
Do I need to send my keys?
No, you do not need to send your keys. All the necessary security information is stored within the BCM itself, and our cloning process transfers this data so the module will recognize your existing keys.
What is a core charge?
There is no core charge for this service. You are welcome to keep your original module after you ship it to us for the data transfer.
Why is my airbag light on after installation?
On some GM vehicles, the BCM must be synced with the airbag system (SDM). If the light is on, a professional scan tool is required to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This is a simple sync that a local mechanic can perform.