Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Hassle-Free Solution
Is your 2013 Chevrolet Volt or other GM vehicle acting possessed? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, or a car that refuses to start can often be traced back to a single culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central nervous system for your car’s comfort and convenience features, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of frustrating electrical problems. In my 20+ years of experience, I’ve seen how these issues can ground a perfectly good vehicle, leaving owners facing a steep bill for diagnostics and programming at the dealership.
We offer a straightforward and cost-effective alternative. This listing is for a replacement BCM that comes ready for installation through our professional cloning service. By transferring the essential data from your original module to this replacement unit, we eliminate the need for expensive, time-consuming dealership programming. You get a part that is synchronized to your vehicle’s specific configuration, making the repair as simple as possible.
A Technician’s Notebook: The BCM Ghost
I remember a 2013 Chevy Cruze that came into the shop with a laundry list of bizarre symptoms. The radio would turn on by itself, the dome lights wouldn’t turn off, and the key fob worked intermittently. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I found a series of U-codes (communication errors) pointing to a network breakdown. The root cause? A failing BCM. A new, unprogrammed module would have been a useless piece of plastic. By cloning his original BCM’s data, we had the car’s electrical systems communicating perfectly again in an afternoon, saving him hundreds compared to the dealer quote. This is the exact, reliable service we provide for your 2013 Volt Body Control Module.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM is the likely cause. Look out for communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like U0140, U0155, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior/exterior lights
- ✔ Power windows, locks, or mirrors not working correctly
- ✔ The security system preventing the car from starting (anti-theft light on)
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all
- ✔ Wipers activating on their own or not responding
- ✔ A dashboard lit up with multiple, unrelated warning lights
- ✔ Complete no-start condition with power still present
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your cloned BCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. For the 2013 Volt, the BCM is located in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment. Always refer to a service manual for your specific vehicle’s location and torque specs.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s 12V battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- Locate the BCM: Find the Body Control Module. It’s a small box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully release the locking tabs on each electrical connector and pull them straight out. Do not force them. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the Replacement: Mount the new, programmed BCM in place and tighten the mounting bolts. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, windows, locks, wipers, etc. Address any warning lights as noted in the section below.
Important Post-Installation Procedures
Our cloning service handles the critical programming, but some vehicle systems may require a simple ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. This is standard procedure for many modern electronic repairs.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is needed. This requires a professional-grade scan tool to sync the systems and is not something that can be cleared by a basic code reader.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, the brake pedal position sensor may need to be recalibrated. This ensures your brake lights and traction control system function as intended. This also typically requires a capable scan tool.
Disclaimer: Specific procedures can vary by vehicle. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This BCM is a guaranteed fit for the following vehicles, provided the options match. It replaces part numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, and 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 Model)
- 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
What is a ‘cloning service’ and how does it work?
Cloning is a process where we transfer the critical vehicle-specific data (like VIN, mileage, key information, and security settings) from your original BCM to the replacement unit. After you place your order, we will contact you with simple instructions to ship your original module to us. We perform the data transfer and ship both your original and the ready-to-install replacement back to you.
Why is this better than buying a new BCM from a dealer?
This service saves you significant time and money. A new BCM from the dealer comes blank and requires expensive, specialized programming to work with your car. Our cloning service bypasses that entire step, providing a cost-effective solution that is ready to install right out of the box.
Do I get my original BCM back?
Yes, absolutely. We always return your original module along with the programmed replacement unit. We do not keep your old part.
What if my airbag light comes on after I install the part?
This is a possibility and is related to the security handshake between modules. It simply means the Airbag Control Module (SDM) needs to be re-synced with the new BCM. This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure, which can be performed by any competent repair shop with a professional scan tool.
Is this a difficult part for a DIYer to replace?
For most of the listed vehicles, the BCM is in a reasonably accessible location (like under the dash or in the engine bay). With basic hand tools and by following safety precautions like disconnecting the battery, it is a very manageable job. The most difficult part—the programming—is already done for you.