Is Your Chevy Volt Experiencing Strange Electrical Issues?
If your 2011 Chevrolet Volt is acting possessedāwith flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, intermittent starting problems, or random warning lights on the dashāthe culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s electronics, managing everything from the interior lights and security system to the power locks and climate control. When it starts to fail, it can create a cascade of confusing and frustrating problems that can be difficult to diagnose.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2011 Chevy Volt come into the shop that was a real head-scratcher. The owner complained that the radio would turn on by itself, the dome lights would stay on, and occasionally, the car wouldn’t recognize the key fob. They had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After hooking up our diagnostic scanner, we saw a series of communication errors all pointing back to one component: the BCM. Instead of a costly trip to the dealer for a new module and programming, we performed a cloning service just like this one. We transferred the data from his faulty BCM to a replacement unit. After a simple plug-in installation, all the bizarre electrical gremlins were gone. Itās a common failure, but thankfully, one with a straightforward solution.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ā Intermittent or non-functional power windows, locks, or mirrors.
- ā Interior or exterior lights behaving erratically (flickering, staying on, or not turning on).
- ā The security system acting up, causing false alarms or preventing the car from starting.
- ā Inconsistent operation of the radio, climate controls, or dashboard gauges.
- ā Key fob not being recognized or working only sporadically.
- ā Multiple, unrelated warning lights appearing on the instrument cluster.
- ā Complete no-start condition where the vehicle has power but won’t crank.
The Simple, Plug-and-Play Solution: Our BCM Programming Service
Don’t let a faulty BCM keep you off the road or drain your wallet with expensive dealership fees. Our professional programming service is the most reliable and cost-effective way to solve your vehicle’s electrical issues. We take the critical data from your original, failing moduleāincluding the VIN, mileage, and key programmingāand transfer it directly onto a replacement 2011 Volt Body Control Module. The result is a unit that is 100% plug-and-play. No need for a trip to the dealership for expensive programming or key relearning procedures.
How Our Mail-In Service Works:
- ā Place Your Order: Complete your purchase through our secure checkout.
- ā We Contact You: We will reach out with clear instructions and the address to ship your original BCM to us.
- ā Ship Your Module: Carefully package and send us your original BCM.
- ā We Program Your Replacement: Upon arrival, our technicians will expertly transfer all necessary data from your old module to the replacement unit.
- ā Receive Your Plug-and-Play BCM: We ship the programmed module back to you, typically within 1-2 business days of receiving your original. You’ll receive tracking information so you know exactly when it will arrive.
Post-Installation Information
While our goal is a seamless installation, some GM vehicles may require minor post-installation procedures. Please be aware of the following possibilities:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a professional scan tool. This is only necessary if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be needed to ensure proper brake light and traction control functionality.
Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step of the installation process.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This service is for the 2011 Volt Body Control Module and is also compatible with a wide range of other GM vehicles. This module will fit the following part numbers:
13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, 13583451
It is a direct fit for models including the Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac SRX, Chevrolet Camaro, Cruze, Equinox, Orlando, and GMC Terrain from specific years. Please verify your part number to ensure compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a Body Control Module (BCM)?
The BCM is a computer in your vehicle that controls and monitors many of the non-engine related electronic functions. This includes power windows, locks, lights, wipers, the security system, and more. It acts as a central hub for these systems.
Why is cloning my original BCM necessary?
Cloning transfers your vehicle’s specific security and options data (like VIN and key information) to the replacement module. This makes the new BCM a perfect electronic match for your car, allowing it to be installed without any additional, expensive dealer programming.
How long does the programming service take?
We typically complete the programming and ship your replacement module back out within 24-48 hours of receiving your original BCM.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM is not functioning in the vehicle, we can still extract the necessary data from the chip. Please contact us with details about your module’s condition if you have concerns.
Do I need any special tools to install the programmed BCM?
No. Installation typically only requires basic hand tools to access the BCM’s location (often in the kick panel or behind the dash) and disconnect the wiring harnesses. Since our module is pre-programmed, no special diagnostic tools are needed for the initial installation.