Tired of Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Vehicle?
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen it all when it comes to baffling electrical problems. Your 2011 Volt’s Body Control Module (BCM) is the central command center for everything from your power windows and door locks to the security system and interior lighting. When it starts to fail, it can feel like your car has a mind of its own. One minute the radio works, the next it doesn’t. The dash lights up like a Christmas tree for no reason. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re signs that the vehicle’s electronic nervous system is compromised.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We offer a professional cloning service for the BCM compatible with part number 13501739 and many others. You simply ship us your original, faulty BCM. We then transfer all the critical, vehicle-specific data—including key programming and security information—to this fully tested replacement unit. The result? You receive a module that is 100% plug-and-play, completely bypassing the need for expensive dealership programming or specialized scan tools. It’s the most reliable and cost-effective way to restore your vehicle’s functionality.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Ghostly Gremlins
I remember a 2013 Chevy Volt that came into my shop with a laundry list of bizarre, intermittent issues. The owner was frustrated because the power locks would work one day and not the next, the interior dome light would flicker, and occasionally the car would refuse to recognize the key fob. He’d been to two other shops that couldn’t find the problem. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I saw multiple ‘U’ codes, indicating a communication breakdown between modules. The common link was the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and hours of programming, we used a cloned unit like this one. The customer sent his old module in, we sent the programmed replacement back, and he installed it himself in under an hour. All the ghostly electrical problems vanished instantly. It’s a perfect example of how the right part and process can save hundreds of dollars and a massive headache.
Common Signs of a Failing GM BCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM is the likely culprit. This is especially true if the issues are intermittent or happen all at once.
- ✔ Power windows, mirrors, or door locks operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ The security system light stays on, or the car alarm goes off randomly.
- ✔ Inconsistent or non-functional interior and exterior lighting (headlights, brake lights, dome lights).
- ✔ The key fob is not being recognized, leading to starting issues.
- ✔ Multiple, unrelated warning lights appearing on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-series codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Swap
Installing your pre-programmed BCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. For the 2011 Volt, the BCM is typically located in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes to allow all systems to power down completely.
- Locate the BCM: On the Volt, find the BCM in the RH engine compartment. On other models, it may be in the driver’s side kick panel or under the dash. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the exact location.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Most have a locking tab that needs to be pressed or lifted. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Seat the new, programmed BCM onto the mounting bracket and secure it. Reconnect all the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Test Functionality: Start the vehicle and test all the systems controlled by the BCM: lights, locks, windows, radio, etc., to confirm the repair was successful.
Important Post-Installation Notes
In some cases, your vehicle may require a couple of simple relearn procedures after installation. This is normal as the new BCM syncs with other vehicle systems.
- Airbag System Sync: If your 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 BCM with the airbag module.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: Some models may require a brake pedal position sensor recalibration to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
Our cloning service provides a direct-fit solution for a wide range of GM vehicles. This module is compatible with the original part number 13501739 and interchanges with the following part numbers: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13577924, 13580773, and 13583451. It 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)
Frequently Asked Questions
How exactly does the cloning service work?
It’s simple. After you place your order, we’ll contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians extract the unique data and transfer it to the replacement module. We then ship the plug-and-play replacement back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Do I need to take my car to the dealer for programming?
Absolutely not! Our cloning service makes this module 100% plug-and-play. All the necessary security and vehicle-specific information is transferred from your old unit, so you can avoid the time and high cost of dealership programming.
Is there a core charge or do I need to return my old part?
There is no core charge. We only need your original module to perform the data transfer service. You can keep your original module after the service is complete.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM is failing, the memory chip containing the vital data is still readable. Please contact us with the specifics of your module’s failure, and our experts can advise on the likelihood of a successful data transfer.
What if my airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is an uncommon but possible outcome. It simply means the BCM and the airbag module (SDM) need to be re-synced. This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure, which can be done by most professional repair shops with a high-level scan tool.