Is Your Chevy Malibu Acting Possessed? Get a Permanent Fix.
If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical problems in your 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, you’re not alone. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. The BCM is the central hub for your car’s body electronics, and when it goes bad, it can cause a cascade of confusing issues. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect vehicle security and safety. Our professional cloning service for the 2013 Malibu BCM is designed to be the most straightforward, reliable, and cost-effective solution to get your car back to normal without an expensive trip to the dealership.
How Our Simple Cloning Service Works
Forget about paying for dealership programming or dealing with complex immobilizer relearn procedures. Our process is designed for both DIYers and professional shops. After you place your order, we’ll contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to our facility. Once we receive it, our expert technicians will transfer 100% of your vehicle’s critical data—including VIN, mileage, and key information—to a fully tested replacement unit. We then ship both your original module and the ready-to-install replacement back to you. The result is a true plug-and-play solution that restores function perfectly.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Malibu with a Mind of Its Own
A customer brought in a 2013 Malibu with a list of complaints that sounded like a poltergeist was at work: the radio would turn on and off by itself, the driver’s side window wouldn’t roll down, and the anti-theft light would flash randomly, sometimes causing a no-start condition. They had already replaced the battery and checked fuses with no luck. A quick scan showed multiple communication loss codes (U0140, U0155). This pointed directly to the central communication hub—the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and programming from the dealer, we performed a cloning service just like this one. By transferring the original data, we ensured all the vehicle-specific security handshakes were preserved. The customer had the car back the next day, all gremlins banished, for a fraction of the dealership’s quote. This is the power of a proper BCM data transfer.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
A faulty BCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your Body Control Module is the likely culprit:
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or dashboard lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on.
- ✔ The vehicle’s security system engaging randomly, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or wipers activating on their own.
- ✔ Communication error codes stored, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
- ✔ Erratic behavior from the radio or climate control systems.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your cloned 2013 Malibu BCM is a simple process. The module is typically located in the driver’s side kick panel area.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2013 Malibu, the BCM is found behind the driver’s side kick panel, to the left of the pedals. You may need to remove a plastic trim panel to access it.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the Replacement: Mount the new, cloned BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Test Functionality: Start the car and test all body functions—windows, locks, lights, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair was successful.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our cloning service makes this a plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. Please be aware of the following:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This is only necessary if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be required to ensure proper brake light operation and to prevent issues with the traction control system.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified mechanic if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM cloning service is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles and part numbers. Please verify your part number is on this list before ordering. This module fits part numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, 13589325.
- Buick Encore: 2013-2014
- Buick Regal: 2013
- Buick Verano: 2013-2017
- Cadillac SRX: 2013
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2013-2016 (incl. Limited)
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2013-2017
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2013
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Gasoline)
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Volt: 2013
- GMC Terrain: 2013-2017
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this BCM programmed by a dealer?
No. The entire point of our cloning service is to completely eliminate the need for dealer programming. We transfer all the necessary data from your old module to the new one, so it arrives ready to install.
What happens to my original BCM?
We always ship your original BCM back to you along with the programmed replacement unit. We believe you should always get your original parts back. We do not require a core.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my car’s electrical problems?
If your vehicle’s issues match the common symptoms of a failing BCM and the module has been properly diagnosed as the fault, this service will resolve those problems. It corrects issues directly caused by a faulty BCM.
How long does the cloning process take?
We typically perform the cloning service and ship your modules back out within 1-2 business days of receiving your original BCM. You will receive tracking information as soon as it ships.
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. If your module has suffered extreme physical damage (e.g., fire or flood), please contact us before ordering to discuss options.
Will this fix my mileage or VIN issues?
This service transfers your vehicle’s original VIN and mileage to the replacement module. It will not alter them. The odometer will read correctly, and the VIN will match your vehicle’s registration.