Are you chasing electrical gremlins in your 2011 Chevrolet Volt? One minute the power windows work, the next they don’t. Maybe your interior lights have a mind of their own, or worse, the car refuses to start intermittently. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these exact frustrations countless times. The culprit is often the Body Control Module (BCM)—the central nervous system for your vehicle’s electronics.
A failing BCM can turn a reliable car into a source of daily headaches. The dealership solution involves a brand-new module, several hours of labor, and a hefty bill for programming that requires their proprietary tools. We offer a smarter, more affordable path. This listing is for a replacement BCM that comes fully programmed using the data from your original module. It’s a direct-fit solution designed to restore your vehicle’s functionality without the dealership hassle.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Confused Camaro
A customer brought in an ’11 Camaro convertible with a bizarre issue: the radio would cut out, the dash lights would flicker, and the power top would stop halfway through its cycle. They had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. Diagnostics showed a flood of communication error codes (U-codes) pointing in every direction. This is a classic sign of a failing BCM. Instead of sending signals, the module was creating ‘noise’ on the data bus, confusing other computers. By cloning his original BCM data to one of our tested units, we had him back on the road, top-down, in a fraction of the time and cost of a dealer visit. Your 2011 Volt BCM experiences the same type of failures.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty 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, preventing the car from starting (anti-theft light on).
- ✔ Wipers or radio turning on and off randomly.
- ✔ Multiple warning lights on the dashboard with no clear cause.
- ✔ Communication loss DTCs, such as U0100, U0140, or other U-series codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your newly programmed BCM is a manageable task for a DIY enthusiast. For the 2011 Volt, the BCM is located in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment. Always consult a service manual for your specific vehicle’s location and torque specs.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s 12V battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2011 Volt, access the BCM in the engine bay. It’s a black plastic box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on each wiring harness connector and pull them straight out. Do not force them. Some may have levers that need to be swung over to release the plug.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting fasteners holding the BCM in place and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Seat your newly programmed BCM in the mounting bracket and secure it with the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the correct ports on the new BCM. You will hear a click when they are fully seated. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Important Post-Installation Information
Our programming service handles the critical security and operational data, making this a near plug-and-play fix. However, in some cases, vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new module:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is on 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 2011 Volt BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary. This can also be done with a capable diagnostic tool.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM programming service is a reliable solution for a wide range of GM vehicles. Your module will be programmed to match your original, ensuring compatibility. This service covers part number 13582688 and is interchangeable with many others, including 13583450, 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13586856, and more. It fits models such as:
- Chevrolet Volt: 2011, 2013
- Buick LaCrosse: 2011, 2012
- Cadillac SRX: 2011, 2012
- GMC Terrain: 2011
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2011
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2011
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2012
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2012
- Buick Regal: 2011
Note: This is not a complete list. The key is matching the part number from your original BCM to the list provided. Our cloning process ensures it works for your specific vehicle’s configuration.
Frequently Asked Questions
2011 Volt BCM
Will this fix my specific problem?
This service corrects issues caused by a faulty . While the symptoms listed are very common, it’s always best to have a proper diagnosis performed to confirm the BCM is the root cause before ordering.