Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play Solution
Are you battling frustrating electrical gremlins in your 2013 Chevrolet Volt or another compatible GM vehicle? Issues like flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, erratic dashboard warnings, or even a no-start condition often point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM acts as the central hub for your car’s body electronics, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of confusing problems. Dealerships often charge a fortune for a new module plus hours of labor for programming. Our professional cloning service offers a smarter, more affordable path back to reliability.
This service provides you with a fully programmed, road-ready 2013 Volt BCM. We transfer the critical data from your original, failing module directly onto this replacement unit. The result is a true plug-and-play component that requires no additional programming or trips to the dealer. It will integrate seamlessly with your vehicle’s existing systems, including the VIN and security information, ensuring all functions are restored just as they were from the factory.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Intermittent Equinox
A customer brought in a 2014 Equinox with a problem that was driving them crazy. On some days, the radio wouldn’t turn on. On others, the driver’s side power window wouldn’t work. Occasionally, the remote key fob would be completely unresponsive. They had been to two other shops that couldn’t find the issue because it was so intermittent. When I hooked up my scan tool, I saw a handful of U-codes (U0140, U0155) pointing to lost communication with the BCM. Instead of just throwing parts at it, we confirmed the BCM was getting proper power and ground. The module itself was failing internally, causing these random communication dropouts. A cloned BCM like this one solved every single one of their issues in one shot, without the high cost and hassle of dealership programming. This is a classic failure pattern for this family of GM BCMs.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of BCM Failure?
- ✔ Unresponsive or malfunctioning power windows, locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on or not turning on at all.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like ABS, Airbag, or Security) illuminating for no reason.
- ✔ Remote keyless entry (fob) working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ Communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), especially U-codes.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start due to security system conflicts (anti-theft light on).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate Your BCM: On the 2013 Volt, the BCM is located in the right-hand (passenger) side of the engine compartment. For other models, its location varies (e.g., left kick panel, under the dash). Refer to your service manual if unsure.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Carefully unplug all electrical connectors from the original BCM. Note their orientation. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the Replacement: Mount the new, programmed BCM in the same location. Securely reconnect all electrical connectors to their correct ports.
- ✔ Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it securely.
- ✔ Test All Functions: Start the vehicle and test all body-related functions—lights, wipers, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair was successful.
Important Notes on Post-Installation Procedures
While our cloning service makes this a plug-and-play repair, some GM vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure after the new module is installed. This is normal and ensures all related systems communicate correctly.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a technician will need to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a professional scan tool. This syncs the airbag system with the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On certain models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be needed to ensure flawless operation of the brake lights and traction control system.
Disclaimer: Procedures can vary. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for vehicle-specific guidance.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for part numbers 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, and 13589325 and fits the following models:
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cloning service work?
It’s simple. After you place your order, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians will extract the unique programming and transfer it to the replacement module. We then ship both your original module and the ready-to-install replacement back to you.
Do I get my original BCM back?
Yes, absolutely. We always return your original module along with the newly programmed replacement unit. We do not keep cores.
Is any extra programming needed after I install it?
No, our cloning service makes the replacement module plug-and-play. It will have your vehicle’s VIN, security data, and specific options already loaded. In some rare cases, a minor relearn procedure like for the brake pedal sensor might be needed, but no expensive dealership programming is required.
What if my part number isn’t on your list but my vehicle is?
Please contact us with your vehicle’s VIN and the part number from your original BCM. GM uses many interchangeable part numbers, and we can verify compatibility for you to ensure you get the correct part.
What happens if the airbag light comes on after installation?
This is an infrequent but known possibility with GM vehicles. It simply means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag module. A repair shop with a professional scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.