Is Your Chevy Cruze Experiencing Strange Electrical Problems?
The Body Control Module (BCM) is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics. It manages everything from your power windows and door locks to the interior lights, security system, and instrument cluster functions. When the BCM starts to fail in a 2013-2016 Chevy Cruze, it can lead to a host of confusing and frustrating issues that can seem unrelated. A failing BCM can mimic problems with individual components, making diagnosis difficult for the average owner.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2014 Cruze come into the shop with a laundry list of complaints from the owner. The radio would turn on and off by itself, the driver’s side window would only work intermittently, and the key fob would randomly stop working. The owner had already replaced the window switch and the key fob battery with no success. After checking the basics, we hooked up our professional scan tool and found multiple communication error codes all pointing back to the BCM. A faulty BCM was causing network interference, creating these ghost-like problems all over the car. Replacing it with a properly programmed unit solved every single issue at once.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors behaving erratically or not working at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights (headlights, dome lights) staying on, flickering, or not turning on.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light is on, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Keyless entry remote (fob) not responding or working intermittently.
- ✔ Warning lights appearing on the dashboard for no apparent reason.
- ✔ HVAC (heater and A/C) controls not functioning correctly.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
The Simple Solution: A Programmed 2013-2016 Cruze BCM
Don’t let a faulty BCM keep your car off the road or cost you a fortune at the dealership. Our plug-and-play Body Control Module is the most effective and straightforward solution. We eliminate the need for expensive dealer-specific tools and programming appointments by offering a unique mail-in cloning service. This service ensures the replacement module is a perfect electronic match for your vehicle, preserving all original settings and key data.
How Our Programming Service Works
The process is designed to be as simple as possible for you:
- Place Your Order: Purchase this BCM 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 Module: Carefully package and ship your vehicle’s original BCM to our facility.
- We Clone the Data: Upon arrival, our expert technicians will transfer all critical data—including VIN, mileage, and key information—from your old module to this replacement unit.
- Receive Your Ready-to-Install BCM: We ship the newly programmed BCM back to you, typically within 1-2 business days. You’ll receive tracking information so you know exactly when it will arrive.
Installation and Post-Install Procedures
Installation is as simple as disconnecting the battery, removing the old BCM (typically located in the driver’s side kick panel), and plugging in the new one. Because we’ve cloned your data, no further programming is required. However, in some cases, specific systems may need to be re-synced:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is on after installation, a “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure must be performed with a professional scan tool. This is only necessary if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be needed to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
This 2013-2016 Cruze BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers, including 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, and 13589325. Please verify the fitment list to ensure compatibility with your specific vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the BCM do in my Chevy Cruze?
The Body Control Module (BCM) acts as the central computer for your car’s non-engine related electronic systems. It controls functions like power windows, locks, lights, the security system, key fob entry, and more.
How does your mail-in programming service work?
You purchase this BCM and then ship your original, faulty BCM to us. We use specialized equipment to extract the unique data from your module and transfer it to the replacement unit. This makes the new BCM a perfect clone, ready for plug-and-play installation without any dealer involvement.
Will I need a dealership to program this module?
No. Our cloning service completely eliminates the need for dealer programming. The module you receive will be pre-programmed with your car’s specific data, making it a true plug-and-play solution.
What are the most common signs of a bad BCM?
The most common symptoms include erratic behavior of power windows and locks, interior lights not working correctly, security system issues causing a no-start condition, and random warning lights on the dash.
Do I need to send my keys along with my original BCM?
No, you do not need to send your keys. All the necessary immobilizer and key data is stored within the BCM itself, and we will transfer that information to the new module.
What if the airbag light comes on after I install the new BCM?
If the airbag light appears, it means the BCM and the airbag system (SDM) need to be re-synced. This requires a professional scan tool to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This is a simple relearn function that a qualified mechanic can perform.