Are you dealing with frustrating and unpredictable electrical problems in your 2013 Chevrolet Malibu? Issues like flickering interior lights, power windows that won’t cooperate, or a security system that acts up on its own are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As a technician with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen these exact symptoms stump even seasoned mechanics. The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of confusing issues. Dealerships often charge a fortune for a new module plus hours of labor for programming. Our cloning service is the smart, cost-effective solution.
This service provides you with a fully functional, replacement 2013 Malibu BCM that is a direct plug-and-play solution. We transfer the critical data from your original, failing module directly onto this replacement unit. This means no complicated and expensive programming is required on your end. You get a part that is matched to your vehicle’s specific VIN and options, restoring function without the dealership hassle.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on at all.
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry system behaving erratically.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing for no reason (e.g., ABS, Traction Control).
- ✔ Communication failure codes, often in the Uxxxx range (like U0100, U0140), indicating the BCM is not communicating with other modules.
- ✔ The engine won’t start, or the starter won’t engage due to a security system fault linked to the BCM.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2013 Malibu that came into the shop with the owner convinced his battery was bad. The dome lights would flicker, and sometimes the car wouldn’t start. He’d already replaced the battery twice. We hooked up the scanner and found a dozen intermittent communication codes pointing everywhere. A less experienced tech might have started chasing wires for days. But the pattern was classic BCM failure. The module was intermittently losing power internally, causing it to drop communication with the rest of the car. We performed a cloning service just like this one, and the customer was back on the road in an hour, all problems solved. It’s rarely the simple component; it’s often the computer controlling it.
How Our Simple Cloning Service Works
Our process is designed to be straightforward and get you back on the road quickly. After you purchase, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to our facility. Once we receive it, our expert technicians will extract the necessary vehicle data and transfer it to the replacement module. We then ship both your original module and the ready-to-install replacement back to you. This ensures a perfect match and preserves all your vehicle’s original settings and key programming.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- 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 typically found in the driver’s side kick panel area, to the left of the pedals. You may need to remove a trim panel for access.
- 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 New BCM: Mount the replacement BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, etc.—to confirm the repair.
Post-Installation Procedures
In most cases, this is a plug-and-play repair. However, on some vehicles, you may need to perform a simple relearn procedure. Please note:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag light is on after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a compatible professional scan tool. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: A recalibration of the brake pedal position sensor may be required to ensure proper brake light and stability control function.
- Disclaimer: Specific procedures can vary. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a guaranteed fit for the following vehicles and part numbers. It directly replaces part numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, 13589325.
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2013 (w/o opt ATH), 2014-2015, 2016 (Limited VIN P)
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2013-2017
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2013
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (gasoline)
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Volt: 2013
- Buick Encore: 2013-2014
- Buick Regal: 2013
- Buick Verano: 2013-2017
- Cadillac SRX: 2013
- GMC Terrain: 2013-2017