Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical Functions and Get Back on the Road
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. If your 2014-2016 Chevrolet Malibu is plagued by bizarre electrical issues—flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows or locks, or a security system that has a mind of its own—the BCM is the most likely culprit. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical component failure. The BCM acts as the central hub for your car’s body electronics, and when it fails, chaos ensues.
Forget the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership. We offer a simple, reliable solution. This replacement BCM, compatible with part number 13593776 and others, comes with our professional cloning service. You simply send us your original module, and we transfer all the critical vehicle-specific data to this replacement unit. The result? A module that is truly plug-and-play for your vehicle’s core functions, saving you hundreds in dealer programming fees.
Case Study: The Malibu’s Electrical Ghost
A customer brought in a 2015 Malibu with a complaint that was driving them crazy. The interior lights would flicker randomly, the radio would sometimes not turn on, and occasionally the car wouldn’t start, showing a ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ message. They had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator, but the ‘ghost’ remained. After a quick scan, I saw multiple communication codes pointing to the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and a full reprogramming from scratch, we used a cloned unit like this one. After a 15-minute swap, all the issues were gone. It’s a classic BCM failure scenario I’ve solved countless times in my shop.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights.
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors not working correctly.
- ✔ The security system light is on, or the car won’t start due to an anti-theft issue.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing and disappearing without reason.
- ✔ Communication failure codes (U-codes) stored in the system, such as U0140.
- ✔ Wipers or horn activating unexpectedly.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Our cloning service handles the complicated software side. All you need are basic hand tools to perform the physical swap. For the 2014-2016 Malibu, the process is very accessible.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on electrical components.
- Locate the BCM: On the Malibu, the BCM is typically found behind the driver’s side kick panel, to the left of the pedals.
- 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 your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical connectors. You should hear a click as they lock in place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our programming covers the essential data, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. This is normal.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light illuminates after installation, a simple ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a professional scan tool. This is only necessary if the light is on.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be required to ensure your brake lights and traction control system function perfectly.
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for procedures specific to your vehicle’s exact year and model.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 13593776 and is guaranteed to be compatible with the following vehicles and part numbers. Please match your part number or vehicle to ensure correct fitment.
Interchangeable Part Numbers: 13580698, 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593775, 13593776, 13594564
- Buick LaCrosse: 2014-2016
- Buick Regal: 2014-2017
- Cadillac ELR: 2014-2016
- Cadillac SRX: 2014-2016
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2014-2015
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2014-2015
- Chevrolet Malibu Limited: 2016 (VIN 1)
- Chevrolet Spark EV: 2014-2016
- Chevrolet Volt: 2014-2015
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the mail-in cloning service work?
After you purchase, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians will transfer its unique data to the replacement module. We then ship the programmed module back to you, ready for installation.
Is this BCM truly plug-and-play?
Our cloning service makes it plug-and-play for all the main functions like starting the car and operating accessories. However, as with any BCM replacement, some secondary systems like the airbag or brake pedal sensor may require a simple relearn procedure with a scan tool if a warning light appears.
Where is the BCM located on my 2015 Malibu?
On the 2014-2016 Malibu, the Body Control Module is located in the driver’s side footwell, behind the plastic kick panel to the left of the brake pedal.
Do I need to send my keys with the module?
No, you do not need to send your keys. All the necessary security and programming information is stored within your original BCM, which is all we need for the data transfer.
What if my original BCM is badly damaged or missing?
This cloning service requires a readable original BCM to extract the data from. If your module is physically destroyed or lost, please contact us before purchasing to discuss potential alternative solutions.