Is Your Chevrolet Spark Experiencing Strange Electrical Issues?
If your 2013 Chevrolet Spark is acting like it’s haunted—with flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security system that won’t cooperate, or an unexplained battery drain—the culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, managing everything from your interior lights and power locks to your key fob and instrument cluster. When it begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and unpredictable problems that can be difficult to diagnose.
Don’t let a faulty BCM keep you off the road or lead to expensive, unnecessary repairs. This listing is for a replacement BCM, part number 13580696 (and other compatible numbers listed below), provided through our expert mail-in programming service. We transfer the unique data from your original module to this replacement unit, ensuring it is a perfect, plug-and-play match for your vehicle’s specific configuration.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2013 Chevy Spark come in with a classic ‘haunted car’ complaint. The dome light would flicker, the radio would sometimes not turn on, and the owner reported a dead battery twice in one month. Initial checks on the battery and alternator were fine. After connecting a diagnostic tool, we saw multiple communication error codes pointing to the BCM. A failing internal relay inside the original BCM was causing a parasitic draw, draining the battery overnight. By providing a replacement unit with the original’s data cloned over, the customer had their car back to normal without a costly trip to the dealer for programming.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Body Control Module
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional interior and exterior lights (headlights, dome lights, dash lights).
- ✔ Power windows, locks, or mirrors behaving erratically or not working at all.
- ✔ Key fob not being recognized, or the security system malfunctioning.
- ✔ Unexplained parasitic battery drain that kills your battery overnight.
- ✔ False warning lights appearing on the instrument cluster (e.g., airbag, ABS).
- ✔ Horn, windshield wipers, or other accessories activating on their own.
- ✔ Communication errors with other vehicle modules when scanned with a diagnostic tool.
Our Simple Mail-In Programming Service
Avoid the high costs and hassle of dealership programming. Our service is designed to be straightforward and effective:
- Place Your Order: Complete your purchase through our secure checkout.
- We Contact You: We will reach out with detailed instructions on how to safely remove and ship your original BCM to our facility. Please ensure your contact information is accurate.
- Data Transfer: Once we receive your module, our technicians will perform a full data clone, transferring all critical information—including VIN, mileage, and key data—to the replacement unit.
- Return Shipping: We ship the fully programmed, ready-to-install BCM back to you, typically within 1-2 business days of receiving your original part. You will receive tracking information as soon as it ships.
Important Post-Installation Steps for your 2013 Spark BCM
Because our service clones your original data, installation is typically plug-and-play. However, in some GM vehicles, certain systems may need to be re-synced after the BCM is reconnected. Please be aware of the following potential procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a professional scan tool is required to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This syncs the airbag system with the BCM and turns off the light. This is only necessary if the light is on.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control function, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be needed. This is often required and can be performed with a compatible diagnostic tool.
Specific procedures can vary by vehicle. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Guaranteed Fitment & Part Number Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for the following part numbers:
13580696, 123589093, 13588446, 13584692, 13583542
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
- REGAL 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- TERRAIN 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash), body control
- SPARK 13 Body Control (BCM); (left lower a-pillar)
- CAMARO 14 Body Control (BCM); (RH dash), Cpe
- EQUINOX 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash), body control
- SRX 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), ID 13580696
- VERANO 12 Body Control (BCM); (below center of dash)
- VOLT 12 Body Control (BCM); (RH engine compartment)
- CAMARO 12-13 Body Control (BCM); (RH dash)
- LACROSSE 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), ID 13580696
- LACROSSE 13 Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a BCM cloning service?
BCM cloning is a process where we extract the essential vehicle-specific data (like the VIN, security information, and feature configuration) from your original Body Control Module and write it onto a replacement module. This makes the replacement unit an exact electronic copy, allowing it to work in your car without needing further programming from a dealership.
Why do I need to send my original BCM to you?
Your original BCM contains the unique software and security keys that are paired to your specific vehicle. By sending it to us, we can ensure a 100% accurate data transfer. This process guarantees that the replacement BCM we send you will be plug-and-play, saving you from a costly and time-consuming visit to the dealer.
What if my original BCM is badly damaged or unreadable?
In most cases, even if the BCM has failed electronically, the core data on the memory chip is still recoverable. Our technicians use advanced tools to retrieve this data. In the rare event that the data is completely corrupted, we will contact you to discuss alternative options.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
Yes, for the vast majority of functions. Because we clone your original data, the car will recognize the new BCM as its own. However, as noted in the description, some safety systems like the airbag (SRS) or brake pedal position sensor may require a simple ‘relearn’ or ‘sync’ procedure with a professional scan tool after installation.
How long does the entire process take?
We typically program and ship your replacement module within 1-2 business days of receiving your original BCM. The total turnaround time will depend on the shipping speed you choose to send your module to us and the return shipping time.