Is Your Vehicle Plagued by Electrical Gremlins?
The Body Control Module, or BCM, is the central command center for your vehicle’s electronic accessories. It manages everything from your power windows and door locks to the interior lights, security system, and even communicates with other critical modules. When the BCM begins to fail, it can create a cascade of bizarre and frustrating symptoms that seem completely unrelated, making diagnosis a nightmare for the average DIYer and even for some professional shops.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We recently had a 2012 Chevy Cruze come into the shop with a list of strange complaints. The owner said the radio would randomly change stations, the interior dome light would flicker while driving, and occasionally, the car would refuse to start, showing a ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ message. A standard diagnostic scan showed multiple communication loss codes with various modules. Instead of chasing each ghost individually, our experience pointed directly to the BCM. By providing a cloned BCM, we were able to solve all the issues in one go, saving the customer from expensive, and likely fruitless, diagnostic time and a costly trip to the dealership.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Erratic behavior from interior or exterior lights (flickering, staying on, or not turning on).
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing for no reason, especially security or airbag lights.
- ✔ The horn honking unexpectedly or the alarm system malfunctioning.
- ✔ A no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire up, often accompanied by a security light.
- ✔ Problems with the HVAC (heating and air conditioning) controls.
- ✔ Remote keyless entry failing to work consistently.
The Plug-and-Play Solution: Our BCM Programming Service
A new BCM from the dealership requires expensive and complicated programming to sync it with your vehicle’s specific VIN and security information. Our service eliminates this step entirely. This listing is for a replacement BCM that is professionally programmed using the data from your original, failing module. This is a 1-to-1 data transfer, ensuring that the replacement part is a perfect electronic match for your car.
How Our 2012 Cruze BCM Service Works:
- ✔ Place Your Order: Complete your purchase. Ensure your contact information is up-to-date.
- ✔ We Contact You: We will reach out with simple instructions and the address to ship your original BCM to us.
- ✔ Ship Your Module: Carefully package and send us your original BCM.
This process makes the installation completely plug-and-play. No additional programming or dealer visits are required. Simply install the module, and you’re back on the road.
Post-Installation Procedures
While our goal is a 100% plug-and-play experience, some GM vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure after the new BCM is installed. These can often be done with a high-end scan tool.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed to sync the modules. This is only required if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary to ensure proper brake light and traction control functionality.
Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for vehicle-specific guidance.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. It is compatible with the following part numbers:
13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, 13583451
It will fit the following makes and models (please verify your part number):
- 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)
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a Body Control Module (BCM)?
The BCM is a computer in your car that controls and monitors many of the non-engine related electronic functions. Think of it as the brain for your car’s body electronics, like lights, windows, locks, and the security system.
Why do I need to send you my original BCM?
Your original BCM contains unique data specific to your vehicle, including the VIN, security codes for your keys, and other settings. We transfer this data to the replacement module, making it a perfect clone. This is what allows for a simple plug-and-play installation without needing the dealer.
Will I need to get my keys reprogrammed?
No. Because we clone the security information from your original module, the replacement BCM will recognize your existing keys just like the original did.
Is this a difficult part to install?
On most vehicles, including the 2012 Cruze, the BCM is located in the driver’s or passenger’s side kick panel area and is relatively easy to access. It typically involves removing a trim panel and a few bolts or clips. Always disconnect the battery before swapping electronic modules.
What is the turnaround time for the programming service?
We pride ourselves on a fast turnaround. Once we receive your original module, the programming and shipping process is typically completed within 1-2 business days.
What if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This can happen on some GM models. It simply means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag module (SDM). A repair shop with a professional-grade scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to resolve this.