Is Your Chevy Volt Experiencing Strange Electrical Issues?
The Body Control Module (BCM) is the central command center for your 2013 Chevrolet Volt’s electronic accessories. It manages a vast network of functions, including power windows, door locks, interior and exterior lighting, security systems, and communication between other vital modules. When the BCM begins to fail, it can create a cascade of baffling and unpredictable problems that can be difficult to diagnose, often mimicking failures of other components.
Instead of spending a fortune at the dealership for a new module and paying for expensive programming, our professional cloning service offers a simple, effective, and affordable solution. We transfer the unique, vehicle-specific data from your original BCM directly onto a replacement unit. This process ensures that the replacement module is a perfect match for your car’s configuration, making installation a true plug-and-play experience.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We recently had a 2013 Volt in the shop that was a real head-scratcher. The owner reported that the dome lights would flicker intermittently, the radio would shut off without warning, and sometimes the car wouldn’t recognize the key fob. We checked all the usual suspects—battery, fuses, and ground connections—but everything looked solid. A deep scan revealed multiple communication fault codes originating from the BCM. Instead of a costly replacement from the dealer, we performed our cloning service. Once the programmed module was installed, every single electrical gremlin vanished. It’s a perfect example of how a single failing module can cause widespread chaos.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Power windows, locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights (headlights, taillights, dome lights) staying on, flickering, or not turning on.
- ✔ The vehicle’s security system malfunctioning or preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing for no reason.
- ✔ Key fob not being recognized or remote functions failing.
- ✔ Wipers or turn signals behaving unpredictably.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
How Our Simple Programming Service Works
Our process is designed to be as straightforward as possible, getting you back on the road quickly without the need for a dealership visit.
- Place Your Order: Complete your purchase through our secure checkout.
- We Contact You: We will reach out to you with clear instructions and a shipping address to send your original BCM to our facility.
- Ship Your Module: Carefully package and ship your original BCM to us.
- We Clone the Data: Upon arrival, our technicians will expertly extract the essential data from your module and flash it onto a fully tested replacement unit.
- Receive Your Ready-to-Install BCM: We ship the newly programmed module back to you, typically within 24-48 hours of receiving your original. You’ll receive tracking information so you know exactly when it will arrive.
Installation and Post-Install Procedures for Your 2013 Volt BCM
Installing your replacement 2013 Volt BCM is a straightforward process. The module is typically located in the right-hand side of the engine compartment. Simply disconnect the battery, unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM, unbolt it, and install the new one in its place. Reconnect everything, and you’re nearly done.
In some cases, additional steps may be required after installation:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ must be performed with a professional-grade scan tool. This syncs the airbag system with the new BCM. This is only necessary if the light is on.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: Some models may require a brake pedal position sensor recalibration to ensure proper brake light operation and traction control system functionality.
Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any part of the installation process.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This service and module are a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers, ensuring broad compatibility. This module will fit the following part numbers: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, and 13583451. It is also compatible with models like the LaCrosse, SRX, Terrain, Equinox, Camaro, Cruze, and more. Please verify your part number to ensure a perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is this cloning service?
We transfer the key vehicle data—like VIN, mileage, and key fob information—from your original BCM to a replacement unit. This makes the replacement module plug-and-play, avoiding the need for expensive dealer programming.
Do I need to take my car to the dealer after installation?
No. Our service is designed to completely eliminate the need for dealer programming. In rare cases, a simple relearn procedure as described above may be needed, which can be done by most independent repair shops.
How long does the entire process take?
Once we receive your original BCM, our cloning service typically takes just 1-2 business days. We then ship the programmed module back to you. Total turnaround time is primarily dependent on shipping times.
Is this a repair service for my original BCM?
No, we are not repairing your old module. We are providing a fully functional, tested replacement BCM that has been programmed with your car’s data. You do not need to worry about your original module’s hardware failure.
What happens if the airbag light comes on after I install the BCM?
If the airbag light is on, it means the BCM needs to be synchronized with the airbag system’s SDM module. This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure, which can be performed by a technician with a professional diagnostic tool.
Will this fix my specific electrical problem?
If your vehicle’s issues have been correctly diagnosed as a BCM failure, this service will resolve them. It is crucial to ensure the BCM is the root cause, as this will not fix problems related to wiring, sensors, or other modules.