Is Your Vehicle Experiencing Strange Electrical Problems?
If your Buick LaCrosse, Chevy Malibu, or other compatible GM vehicle is acting possessed, the Body Control Module (BCM) is the most likely culprit. The BCM is the central nervous system for your car’s electronics, managing everything from your power windows and door locks to the interior lights, security system, and even communication between other critical modules. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating symptoms that can be difficult to diagnose.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We recently had a 2015 Chevy Malibu in the shop with a textbook case of BCM failure. The customer reported that the radio would turn on and off by itself, the driver’s side window wouldn’t roll down, and occasionally the car wouldn’t start, despite having a new battery. The dash was lit up with random warning lights that changed every time he drove it. After hours of chasing wires, we confirmed the BCM was internally shorted. Instead of a costly trip to the dealer for a new module and programming, he used our cloning service. We sent him a replacement LaCrosse Body Control Module programmed with his original data. He plugged it in himself in under 20 minutes, and every single issue was resolved instantly. It’s a perfect example of how this service saves you time, money, and a massive headache.
Symptoms of a Failing Body Control Module
- ā Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating intermittently or not at all.
- ā Interior or exterior lights staying on, flickering, or not turning on.
- ā The vehicle’s security system engaging randomly or preventing the car from starting.
- ā Inaccurate or non-functional gauges on the instrument cluster.
- ā False warning lights appearing on the dashboard (e.g., airbag, ABS, traction control).
- ā Remote keyless entry failing to work consistently.
- ā Communication errors with other vehicle modules, leading to a no-start condition.
A True Plug-and-Play Solution
The dealership solution involves purchasing a brand new, expensive module and paying for several hours of labor to have it installed and programmed to your vehicle’s specific configuration. Our service eliminates that complexity and cost. This listing is for a replacement BCM that is professionally programmed using the data from your original, failed module. This cloning process makes the replacement part a direct, plug-and-play fit for your car.
How the Process Works:
- Purchase this service: Complete your order online. Ensure your contact information is accurate.
- We Contact You: Our team will reach out with simple instructions and a shipping address for you to send your original BCM to us.
- Ship Your Module: Carefully package and ship your original BCM to our facility.
- We Program Your Replacement: Upon arrival, our technicians will expertly extract the necessary data (including VIN, mileage, and key information) from your old module and flash it onto a fully tested replacement unit.
- Receive Your Ready-to-Install BCM: We ship the programmed replacement module back to you. Installation is as simple as unplugging the old one and plugging the new one in. No further programming is required!
Installation and Post-Installation Notes
Installation is straightforward, typically located in the driver’s or passenger’s side kick panel or dash area. Once installed, in most cases, the vehicle will start and function perfectly. However, due to the complexity of modern vehicle systems, a couple of minor recalibration procedures may be necessary:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is on after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: Some models may require a brake pedal position sensor recalibration to ensure proper function of the brake lights and stability control systems.
Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any part of the installation or post-installation process.
Fitment and Part Number Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify that your vehicle and original part number are on this list. This module is compatible with the following part numbers:
13580698, 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593775, 13593776, 13594564
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
- LACROSSE 14-15: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- LACROSSE 16: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), ID 13580698 or 13594564
- MALIBU 14-15: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- MALIBU 16: Body Control (BCM); VIN 1 (4th digit, Limited), (LH kick panel)
- VOLT 14-15: Body Control (BCM); (RH engine compartment)
- ELR 14-16: Body Control (BCM); (RH cowl)
- REGAL 14-17: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- CAMARO 14-15: Body Control (BCM); (RH dash)
- SRX 14-16: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- SPARK 14-16: Body Control (BCM); (left lower a-pillar), electric model (EV)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Body Control Module (BCM)?
The BCM is a computer in your vehicle that controls and monitors a wide variety of electronic accessories not related to the engine, such as power windows, locks, lights, security systems, and climate controls. It acts as a central hub for these functions.
How does your programming service work?
You send us your vehicle’s original BCM. We use specialized equipment to read the unique data from itālike the VIN, security information, and specific optionsāand then write that data onto this replacement module. This makes the replacement a perfect electronic match for your car.
Is this part really plug-and-play?
Yes, because we clone the data from your original module, this part will not require any additional programming from a dealer. You simply disconnect the old module and connect this one. In some rare cases, a minor relearn procedure for the airbag or brake pedal sensor may be needed, as detailed above.
Do I need to send my keys with my original module?
No, you do not need to send your keys. All the necessary security information is stored within the BCM itself, and our cloning process transfers this data to the new unit, ensuring your existing keys will work perfectly.
How long does the programming service take?
Our service is typically completed within 1-2 business days after we receive your original module. We then ship the programmed replacement back to you promptly.