Is Your Chevrolet Equinox or GMC Terrain Plagued by Bizarre Electrical Gremlins?
The Body Control Module (BCM) is the central command center for your vehicle’s electronic accessories. When it begins to fail, it can create a cascade of confusing and frustrating problems that seem unrelated. From power windows that won’t budge to a security system that randomly activates, a faulty BCM can make your vehicle feel unreliable. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect the safety and security of your car. If you’re dealing with flickering lights, malfunctioning locks, or warning messages that don’t make sense, your BCM is the likely culprit.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
Diagnosing a BCM can be tricky, as its failure can mimic other issues. However, if you’re experiencing several of the following problems, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs attention. Look out for these common warning signs:
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, and mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on, flickering, or not working at all.
- ✔ The security system or alarm activating for no reason, or the vehicle refusing to start due to a security fault.
- ✔ Inaccurate readings on the instrument cluster, such as the fuel gauge or speedometer.
- ✔ Warning lights (like ABS, Airbag, or Traction Control) appearing on the dash without a clear cause.
- ✔ Wipers or the horn operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ A parasitic battery drain that leaves you with a dead battery overnight.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2014 GMC Terrain come into the shop with a classic ‘dead battery’ complaint. The owner had already replaced the battery twice and the alternator once, but every few days, the vehicle would be completely dead. After checking for obvious drains, we hooked up our diagnostic scanner and noticed the BCM wasn’t allowing other modules to go into ‘sleep’ mode. It was keeping the network active, slowly draining the battery. By providing a cloned BCM, we solved the root cause of the problem, saving the customer from replacing more unnecessary parts. This highlights how a faulty BCM can cause misleading symptoms.
The Easiest Fix: A Plug-and-Play 2013-2017 Equinox BCM
Forget expensive dealership visits and the hassle of programming a new module. Our professional mail-in cloning service provides a seamless and cost-effective solution. We take all the critical data from your original BCM—including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), key immobilizer information, and vehicle-specific settings—and transfer it directly to this replacement unit. The result is a true plug-and-play module that is ready for installation right out of the box.
How Our Cloning Service Works:
- ✔ Place Your Order: Purchase this BCM through our secure checkout.
- ✔ We’ll Contact You: We will reach out to you with clear, simple instructions and the address to ship your original BCM to. Please ensure your contact information is up to date.
- ✔ Ship Your Original Module: Pack your old BCM securely and send it to us.
- ✔ Install and Drive: Simply install the replacement BCM, and your vehicle’s electrical systems will be fully restored. No further programming is required.
Installation and Required Procedures
Physically installing the BCM is straightforward, typically located on the driver’s side of the dash or kick panel. Because our service makes this a plug-and-play part, no initial programming is needed. However, in some cases, specific vehicle systems may need to be re-synced with the BCM after installation. These are simple procedures for any qualified technician with a professional scan tool.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is on after installation, the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is required. This syncs the airbag system with the BCM to turn off the light. This is only necessary if the light appears post-installation.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be needed to ensure correct brake light operation and to satisfy the traction control system.
Disclaimer: Specific procedures can vary by vehicle. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Guaranteed Fitment for Multiple GM Models
This BCM is a direct replacement for several part numbers, ensuring broad compatibility. It will fit the following part numbers:
13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, 13589325
It is compatible with the following vehicles:
- 2013-2017 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2013-2017 GMC Terrain
- 2013-2015 Chevrolet Cruze (2016 ‘Limited’ models)
- 2013-2014 Buick Encore
- 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2013 Buick Regal
- 2013 Cadillac SRX
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Spark (gasoline)
- 2013-2014 Chevrolet Orlando
- 2013-2017 Buick Verano
- 2013-2014 Chevrolet Trax
- 2013 Chevrolet Volt
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BCM cloning?
BCM cloning is the process of reading the essential vehicle-specific data (like VIN, mileage, and key codes) from your original module and writing it onto a replacement module. This makes the replacement unit an exact copy, allowing it to work in your vehicle without any additional programming.
Why is this service better than buying a used BCM from a junkyard?
A used BCM from another vehicle contains the wrong VIN and security information. It will not start or run your vehicle correctly and would still require expensive programming at a dealership, which they are often reluctant to do on used parts. Our service eliminates this entirely.
How long does the entire process take?
Once we receive your original BCM, our service is typically completed within 24-48 hours. The total time depends on shipping speeds to and from our facility. We ship the programmed module back to you promptly.
Do I need to send my keys with the BCM?
No, you do not need to send your keys. All the necessary immobilizer and key data is stored within your original BCM, and that is what we transfer over. Your existing keys will work seamlessly with the replacement module.
What if my original BCM is not communicating or is severely damaged?
In most cases, even if the BCM is failing, we can still extract the necessary data. If your module has extensive water or fire damage, please contact us before ordering to discuss options. We have advanced recovery techniques for many situations.
Is there a core charge for this 2013-2017 Equinox BCM?
No, there is no core charge. We require your original module to perform the cloning service, after which we will return it to you along with the newly programmed replacement unit.