Is Your Chevrolet Malibu Experiencing Strange Electrical Problems?
The Body Control Module, or BCM, is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s electronic accessories. It doesn’t control the engine, but it manages nearly everything else: your power windows, door locks, interior and exterior lights, security system, and even the climate controls. When the BCM starts to fail, it can create a cascade of confusing and frustrating symptoms that seem unrelated. One moment your turn signal might not work, and the next, the car might not start at all. If you’re dealing with these kinds of electrical gremlins in your 2014-2016 Malibu, a faulty BCM is the most likely culprit.
The Dealership-Free Solution: A Programmed 2014-2016 Malibu BCM
Replacing a BCM isn’t as simple as swapping the part. A new module from the dealership is a blank slate; it must be professionally programmed with specialized tools to communicate with your car’s specific VIN and options. This process is often costly and requires a trip to the dealer. We offer a simpler, more affordable solution. By purchasing this module, you are getting our expert programming service. You send us your original, faulty BCM, and we transfer all of its critical data—including VIN, mileage, and key programming—to this replacement unit. When you receive it back, it’s a true plug-and-play part. No additional programming, no dealership visits, and no hidden fees.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2015 Malibu come into the shop with a laundry list of bizarre issues. The customer reported that the radio would randomly turn off, the driver’s side window wouldn’t roll down, and the anti-theft light would flash, preventing the car from starting intermittently. They had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After running diagnostics, we found communication errors pointing directly to the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and programming from the dealer, we performed a cloning service just like this one. Once the programmed replacement BCM was installed, every single issue vanished. It was a 15-minute install that saved the customer hundreds of dollars and a major headache.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Headlights, taillights, or interior lights behaving erratically (staying on or not turning on).
- ✔ The security system engaging randomly, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Warning lights on the dashboard appearing without a clear cause (e.g., airbag, ABS).
- ✔ Horn, wipers, or radio not working correctly.
- ✔ Key fobs that suddenly stop working.
- ✔ A noticeable battery drain when the vehicle is off.
How Our BCM Programming Service Works
Our process is designed to be as simple and straightforward as possible to get you back on the road quickly.
- Place Your Order: Complete your purchase for this 2014-2016 Malibu BCM. Ensure your contact information is accurate.
- We Contact You: We will reach out with clear, step-by-step instructions on how to remove your original BCM and where to ship it.
- Ship Your Original Module: Pack your original BCM securely and send it to our facility.
- We Clone Your Data: Upon receipt, our technicians will professionally extract the essential data from your module and flash it onto the replacement unit.
- Receive Your Plug-and-Play BCM: We ship the fully programmed replacement module back to you. Once it arrives, simply install it, and your vehicle’s functions will be restored.
Installation and Post-Install Considerations
For the 2014-2016 Malibu, the BCM is typically located in the driver’s side kick panel area, making it relatively easy to access. While the physical installation is straightforward, please be aware of a few potential post-installation procedures that may be necessary depending on your specific vehicle.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ will be required. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system and must be done with a professional-grade scan tool.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: In some cases, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be needed to ensure proper function of the brake lights and traction control system.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems can vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified automotive technician for specific guidance related to your vehicle.
Guaranteed Fitment
This module is a direct replacement for the following part numbers: 13580698, 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593775, 13593776, 13594564. It is also compatible with a range of other GM vehicles, including:
- 2014-2016 Buick LaCrosse
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Volt
- 2014-2016 Cadillac ELR
- 2014-2017 Buick Regal
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Camaro
- 2014-2016 Cadillac SRX
- 2014-2016 Chevrolet Spark (EV)
- 2016 Chevrolet Malibu (Limited)
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a Body Control Module (BCM)?
The BCM is a computer in your car that controls and monitors the body electronics. This includes things like your lights, windows, door locks, wipers, and security system. It acts as a central hub for these functions.
How does this programming service work?
After you place your order, you will ship your original BCM to us. We use specialized equipment to read the unique data from your module (like VIN and key information) and transfer it to the replacement unit. This makes the replacement module a perfect ‘clone’ of your original, ensuring it works seamlessly with your car.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
Yes. Because we clone the data from your original module, the replacement BCM we send you is ready for installation right out of the box. It will recognize your existing keys and vehicle configuration, eliminating the need for a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
What happens if my original BCM is completely dead or missing?
Our cloning service requires a readable original module. If your BCM is missing, water-damaged, or has a ‘no-communication’ fault, we may not be able to retrieve the necessary data. Please contact us before ordering if this is your situation.
How can I be sure the BCM is the cause of my problems?
While the symptoms listed are strong indicators of BCM failure, a professional diagnosis is always recommended. A technician with a high-level scan tool can check for communication errors and fault codes (like U-codes) related to the BCM to confirm it is the source of the issue.
Do I need to return my old part after installation?
No. There is no core charge for this part. We only need your original module to perform the programming service. You can keep it after the service is complete.