Is Your Chevy Malibu Experiencing Electrical Gremlins?
The Body Control Module (BCM) is the central command center for your vehicle’s electronic accessories. It manages everything from your power windows, door locks, and interior lights to the security system and keyless entry. When the BCM starts to fail, it can create a host of bizarre, frustrating, and seemingly unrelated electrical issues. If your Malibu, Lacrosse, Regal, or other compatible GM vehicle is acting possessed, a faulty BCM is a likely culprit.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2015 Chevy Malibu come into the shop with a laundry list of strange symptoms. The driver’s side window would only work intermittently, the radio would sometimes refuse to turn off after the key was removed, and the anti-theft light would flash randomly while driving. After checking all the usual suspects like fuses and wiring, we connected our diagnostic scanner. The BCM was throwing multiple communication fault codes. It was essentially sending corrupted signals across the vehicle’s network, causing chaos. By providing a replacement module programmed with the original’s data, we were able to solve every single issue in one go, saving the customer from an expensive and lengthy diagnostic process at the dealership.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lights staying on or not turning on at all.
- ✔ The horn sounding randomly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Security system malfunctions, including false alarms or failure to arm/disarm.
- ✔ Key fob not being recognized, leading to starting issues.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights for various systems appearing without reason.
- ✔ Wipers or other accessories activating on their own.
Your Plug-and-Play Solution: The 2014-2016 Malibu Body Control Module
Don’t let a faulty BCM keep you off the road. This replacement Body Control Module, compatible with part number 13590173 and others, is the definitive solution. We eliminate the biggest headache of BCM replacement: the need for expensive dealership programming. Our professional mail-in programming service makes this a simple, plug-and-play repair. We transfer all the critical data from your original module—including the VIN, mileage, and key information—directly onto this replacement unit. When you receive it back, you simply install it, and your vehicle’s electronics are restored to proper working order.
How Our Programming Service Works:
- ✔ Place Your Order: Purchase this BCM and ensure your contact information is up to date.
- ✔ We Contact You: Our team will reach out with simple instructions and a shipping address for you to send your original BCM to us.
- ✔ Send Us Your Original BCM: Securely package your existing module and ship it to our facility.
- ✔ We Program the Replacement: Upon arrival, our technicians will professionally clone all necessary data from your old module to the new one.
- ✔ We Ship It Back: We ship the plug-and-play replacement BCM back to you, typically within 1-2 business days, and provide you with tracking information.
Fitment and Compatibility Information
This module is a direct replacement for 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 16 Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), ID 13580698
LACROSSE 14-15 Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
MALIBU 14-15 Body Control (BCM); (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)
ELR 16 Communication; (RH engine compartment)
CAMARO 14 Body Control (BCM); (RH dash), Conv
CAMARO 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)
MALIBU 16 Body Control (BCM); VIN 1 (4th digit, Limited), (LH kick panel)
LACROSSE 16 Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), ID 13594564
Important Post-Installation Procedures
While our programming service makes this a plug-and-play installation, some vehicles may require minor recalibration procedures after the new BCM is installed. These can typically be performed by a qualified mechanic with a professional-grade scan tool.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is necessary. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system’s computer (SDM) to ensure safety system integrity.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be needed to ensure accurate brake light operation and proper function of the traction control and stability control systems.
Disclaimer: Specific procedures can vary by vehicle. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this mail-in programming service work?
After you place your order, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. We then extract the vehicle-specific data and transfer it to the replacement module. We ship the newly programmed module back to you, ready for installation.
What information is transferred from my old BCM?
We transfer all the essential data required for your vehicle to function correctly, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), mileage, immobilizer/key data, and any vehicle-specific option configurations.
How long does the entire process take?
Once we receive your original module, the programming and shipping process typically takes 1-2 business days. The total time will depend on your shipping transit times to and from our facility.
Is this BCM truly plug-and-play after programming?
Yes, in over 95% of cases, the module is completely plug-and-play. In rare instances, as noted above, a simple relearn procedure like an airbag sync or brake pedal position relearn may be required using a mechanic’s scan tool.
What if my original BCM is not communicating?
Even if your module is causing significant issues, we can often still retrieve the necessary data. Please contact us before ordering if your module is completely dead, water-damaged, or fire-damaged to discuss options.
Where is the BCM located on a 2014-2016 Malibu?
On the 2014-2016 Chevrolet Malibu, the Body Control Module is typically located in the driver’s side of the cabin, behind the left-hand kick panel, near the fuse box.