Is Your GM Vehicle Experiencing Strange Electrical Problems?
The Body Control Module, or BCM, is the central command center for your vehicle’s electronic accessories. It’s not just a fuse box; it’s a sophisticated computer that manages everything from your power windows and locks to your interior lighting, security system, and even turn signals. When the BCM starts to fail, it can create a cascade of confusing and frustrating issues that can be difficult to diagnose. You might experience lights flashing for no reason, windows that won’t go up or down, or a security system that acts erratically. These aren’t just minor annoyances; they can impact your vehicle’s safety and usability.
Diagnosing a Faulty 2012 Orlando Body Control Module
A failing BCM can mimic a wide variety of other problems, often leading to unnecessary and expensive repairs. You might replace a window motor only to find the problem persists, or chase down wiring issues that don’t exist. The root cause is often the BCM itself. This module communicates with nearly every other computer in your car, and when its internal logic or components fail, the signals get crossed, leading to unpredictable behavior. If you’re dealing with multiple, unrelated electrical gremlins, it’s a strong indicator that your BCM is the culprit.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We once had a 2011 Buick LaCrosse come into the shop with a truly baffling set of symptoms. The customer complained that the radio would randomly change stations, the dome light would flicker while driving, and the car wouldn’t start intermittently. They had already replaced the battery and the alternator with no success. After hooking up our professional scan tool, we noticed a flood of communication errors all pointing back to one central hub: the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and days of programming at the dealership, we performed a cloning service just like this one. We transferred the data from his failing BCM to a replacement unit, and the car was back to normal the same afternoon. It saved the customer hundreds of dollars and a major headache.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights (headlights, taillights, dome lights) staying on, flickering, or not working at all.
- ✔ The vehicle’s security system or alarm randomly activating.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing for systems that are functioning correctly.
- ✔ Problems with the heating and air conditioning controls.
- ✔ Intermittent no-start conditions where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
Our Plug-and-Play Programming Service: The Smart Solution
Dealerships will often quote you a high price for a new BCM, followed by several hours of labor for installation and programming. Our service is designed to eliminate that hassle and expense. This listing is for a replacement BCM that is professionally programmed with the data from your vehicle’s original module. This cloning process makes the replacement unit a direct, plug-and-play solution. All the critical information—including your vehicle’s VIN, key data, and specific options—is transferred over, ensuring seamless integration without any additional programming required on your end.
How The Process Works:
- ✔ Place Your Order: Complete your purchase through our secure checkout.
- ✔ We Contact You: We will reach out to you with clear instructions and a shipping address to send your original BCM to us.
- ✔ Ship Your Original BCM: Carefully package and ship your module to our facility.
- ✔ We Program Your Replacement: Upon arrival, our technicians will expertly transfer all the necessary data from your original module to the replacement unit.
- ✔ We Ship It Back: We ship the ready-to-install, programmed BCM back to you, typically within 24-48 hours of receiving your original part. You’ll receive tracking information as soon as it’s on its way.
Installation and Post-Install Considerations
Installation is straightforward: simply disconnect the battery, locate and remove your old BCM, and install the programmed replacement. Reconnect the battery, and your vehicle should be back to normal. However, in some GM vehicles, a couple of simple relearn procedures may be necessary.
- Airbag System Sync: If you see an airbag warning light after installation, it means the new BCM needs to be synced with the SDM (airbag module). This is a simple ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure that can be performed with a professional-grade scan tool.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, the brake pedal position sensor may need to be recalibrated to ensure your brake lights and traction control system function as intended. This is also a quick procedure done with a capable scan tool.
Please note: These procedures are not always required but are important to be aware of. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for vehicle-specific guidance.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This BCM and programming service is a direct replacement for the following part numbers:
13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, 13583451
It is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles, including:
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), and Buick Regal (2011). Please verify your part number before ordering to ensure a perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a BCM and what does it do?
The Body Control Module (BCM) is a computer in your vehicle that controls and monitors a wide range of electronic body functions not related to the engine, such as power windows, locks, lights, wipers, and the security system.
How does this programming service work?
You purchase this service and ship your original BCM to us. We then extract the unique data from your module and program it into a replacement unit. We ship the programmed replacement back to you, ready for installation.
Is this a true plug-and-play solution?
Yes, in most cases. Because we clone your original data, the replacement module is ready to be installed without any need for expensive dealership programming. Some vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure for the airbag or brake pedal sensor, which can be done with a professional scan tool.
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 on the circuit board. Please contact us with details about your module’s condition if you have concerns.
How long does the entire process take?
Our in-house processing time is typically 24-48 business hours from the time we receive your original module. The total time will depend on shipping transit times to and from our facility.