Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Hassle-Free Solution
Is your 2013 Chevy Volt or other GM vehicle acting possessed? Flickering lights, power windows with a mind of their own, a dead instrument cluster, or a car that refuses to start are all classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). It’s the central nervous system for your car’s comfort and convenience features, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and confusing electrical problems. The dealership solution involves a costly new module and expensive programming fees. We offer a smarter, more efficient fix.
This is a comprehensive cloning service for a BCM compatible with part number 13586278 and many others. You simply send us your original BCM, and we transfer all of its critical data—including immobilizer information, key programming, and vehicle-specific options—to this fully tested replacement unit. We then ship the ready-to-install module back to you. This process makes the replacement of your 2013 Volt BCM as close to plug-and-play as possible, saving you hundreds of dollars and eliminating the need for a trip to the dealer.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Pitfalls of a ‘New’ BCM
I remember a customer with a Buick LaCrosse who came to my shop after a different garage installed a brand-new BCM. The car started, but the remote start was gone, the driver’s seat memory didn’t work, and the premium sound system sounded flat. The problem? The new BCM wasn’t configured for his specific vehicle options (RPOs). By cloning the original module, we preserve every single one of those factory settings. It’s not just about making the car run; it’s about making it work exactly as it did when it left the factory. This cloning service ensures that all the personalized features you paid for continue to function perfectly.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM in Your GM Vehicle
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your Body Control Module is the likely culprit. In my 20+ years of diagnostics, these are the symptoms I see most often with BCM failure, sometimes accompanied by communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like U0100, U0140, or other U-codes.
- ✔ Unpredictable or non-working power windows, door locks, or interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system light stays on, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ The horn honks randomly or the alarm goes off without reason.
- ✔ The instrument panel gauges behave erratically or go completely dead.
- ✔ Wipers activating on their own or not working at all.
- ✔ Problems with the keyless entry and remote start systems.
- ✔ A persistent battery drain that leaves you with a dead battery overnight.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
After receiving your programmed module from us, installation is straightforward. For a 2013 Volt BCM, the module is located in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment. Location varies on other models (see fitment list). Always disconnect the battery before starting any electrical work.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- Locate the BCM: Find the Body Control Module. On the 2013 Volt, it’s in the engine bay on the passenger side. For other models, it may be under the dash or behind a kick panel.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unplug all electrical connectors from the old BCM. Most have a locking tab that needs to be depressed or lifted. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt or unclip the original BCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely fasten it.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug all the electrical connectors into the new module. They are often color-coded or shaped to prevent incorrect installation. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and test all functions: lights, windows, locks, wipers, and radio. Refer to the post-installation procedures below if any warning lights appear.
Important Post-Installation Steps
While our cloning service makes this a seamless process, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. This is normal.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated 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 required to ensure your brake lights and stability control systems function correctly. This also typically requires a diagnostic tool.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Fitment for These GM Models
This BCM cloning service is compatible with a wide range of vehicles. Please verify your part number is on our list. Part numbers we service include: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, 13583451.
This part fits models such as:
- 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)
The service for your 2013 Volt BCM is a direct, reliable solution. Order today and let us handle the technical complexities for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cloning service work?
After you purchase, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, we extract the unique data and transfer it to the replacement module. We then ship the ready-to-install BCM back to you, typically within 1-2 business days of receiving your original.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM has failed, the memory chip containing the vital data is still readable. We have specialized tools to recover this data. Please contact us before ordering if your module has severe water or fire damage.
Do I need to send my keys?
No, you do not need to send your keys. Because we are cloning your original module’s data, the replacement BCM will recognize your existing keys just like the old one did.
Is this really plug-and-play?
It’s as close as it gets. The cloning process handles all the critical vehicle programming. However, as noted, some models may require a simple ‘relearn’ or ‘sync’ procedure for the airbag or brake pedal sensor, which may require a scan tool.
Is there a core charge?
No, there is no core charge. We need your original module to perform the data cloning service, but you are welcome to keep it afterward if you wish.