Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Vehicle?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all. A customer comes in with a car that seems possessed: the dome lights flicker, the power locks have a mind of their own, the radio cuts out, or worse, the car won’t start, but the battery and starter are fine. These baffling issues often point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the nerve center for your car’s comfort and convenience features, and when it starts to go, it can create a cascade of frustrating problems. This is especially common in vehicles like the 2012 Chevy Cruze.
Instead of facing a massive bill and a long wait at the dealership for a new module and programming, we offer a streamlined, reliable solution. This listing is for a replacement BCM that is professionally programmed using the data from your original module. This cloning process makes the replacement a true plug-and-play part, specifically matched to your vehicle’s VIN and options. You simply send us your faulty BCM, we handle the complex data transfer, and ship you a ready-to-install module. It’s the most efficient way to restore your vehicle’s functionality without the dealership hassle.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Cruze That Wouldn’t Crank
I remember a 2012 Cruze that was towed into the shop. The owner had already replaced the battery and was convinced the starter was bad. It would crank sometimes, but not others. After checking the basics, I hooked up my professional scan tool and saw no communication with the BCM (a classic U0140 code). The BCM is responsible for interpreting the key signal and energizing the starter relay. In this case, the BCM was failing intermittently, leaving the driver stranded. A new, unprogrammed BCM from the dealer would have required towing and expensive programming. Instead, we used our cloning service. Once the programmed replacement BCM was installed, the car started perfectly every single time. It’s a textbook example of how a faulty 2012 Cruze BCM can mimic other, more common failures.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These BCM Failure Signs?
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your Body Control Module is the likely cause:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not working at all.
- ✔ The security system acting up, causing false alarms or preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Intermittent no-start or no-crank conditions, even with a good battery.
- ✔ Instrument cluster warning lights (like the airbag or brake light) illuminating for no reason.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your newly programmed BCM is a manageable task for a confident DIYer. For the 2012 Cruze, the BCM is typically located in the driver’s side kick panel.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before beginning work.
- Locate the BCM: On a 2012 Cruze BCM, this is usually behind the plastic trim panel to the left of the driver’s feet (the kick panel). You may need to remove a trim piece or two for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the Replacement: Mount the new, programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Post-Installation Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—windows, locks, lights, etc. Note that some models may require additional steps as outlined below.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our cloning service makes this a near plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. This is normal.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a compatible professional scan tool. This syncs the airbag system to the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be needed to ensure correct brake light operation and to prevent issues with the traction control system.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. Always refer to a factory service manual or consult a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Compatibility for Your Vehicle
This BCM programming service is compatible with a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your original part number against this list. This module is a direct replacement for part numbers: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, and 13583451. It fits models including:
- Buick LaCrosse (2011-2012)
- Cadillac SRX (2011-2012)
- Chevrolet Camaro (2011)
- Chevrolet Cruze (2012)
- Chevrolet Equinox (2011)
- Chevrolet Orlando (2012)
- Chevrolet Volt (2011-2013)
- GMC Terrain (2011)
- Buick Regal (2011)
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 flash it onto the replacement module. We ship the ready-to-install module back to you, typically within one business day of receiving your original.
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. Our service handles all the necessary programming. The module you receive is pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN and configuration, making it a plug-and-play installation. Some minor relearn procedures may be required post-installation, as noted above.
What if my airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is a normal security feature on some GM vehicles. It simply means the airbag module needs to be electronically introduced to the new BCM. A technician with a professional-grade scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.
Is there a core charge or do I need to return the part?
There is no core charge! You send us your original module for the data cloning service, but you can keep it afterward. We supply the replacement BCM as part of the service.
How do I find my BCM part number?
The part number is printed on a white label directly on the Body Control Module’s case. You will need to access the module in your vehicle to read this label and confirm it matches one of the compatible numbers listed.