Is Your Chevrolet Spark Experiencing Strange Electrical Problems?
The Body Control Module, or BCM, is the central command center 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 lighting, security system, and even the warning chimes. When the BCM starts to fail, it can create a cascade of confusing and frustrating issues that seem unrelated. If your Spark is acting possessed, a faulty BCM is a very likely culprit.
The Simple, Dealer-Free Solution
Replacing a BCM isn’t just a matter of swapping parts. A new module from the dealership requires expensive programming to sync it with your vehicle’s specific options and security information. Our unique programming service completely eliminates this step. By sending us your original BCM, we can extract all the critical data and transfer it directly to this replacement unit. The result is a true plug-and-play module, programmed specifically for your car’s VIN. You get a fully functional part without the hassle or high cost of a dealership visit.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2013 Chevy Spark come into the shop with a list of bizarre symptoms. The owner said the dome light would randomly turn on while driving, the radio would shut off intermittently, and the power locks would sometimes not respond to the key fob. He had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After connecting our diagnostic scanner, we saw multiple communication error codes pointing towards the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and programming, we performed a data transfer to a replacement unit. After a 15-minute installation, every single one of the car’s electrical gremlins was gone. It’s a perfect example of how a failing 2013 Spark Body Control Module can cause widespread, confusing issues.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Headlights, taillights, or interior lights behaving erratically (staying on or not turning on).
- ✔ The security system or keyless entry failing to work correctly.
- ✔ False warnings appearing on the instrument cluster (e.g., ‘Door Ajar’ light).
- ✔ The horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
- ✔ Wipers activating on their own or not responding to the switch.
- ✔ Rapid battery drain when the vehicle is turned off.
Understanding Your 2013 Spark Body Control Module
This service provides a direct replacement for your failing BCM, part number 13588446 and other compatible numbers listed below. The process is straightforward: after your purchase, we will provide you with instructions to ship your original BCM to our facility. Our technicians will then perform a complete data clone to this replacement module. This ensures that all your vehicle’s factory settings, key programming, and security information are perfectly preserved. We then ship the ready-to-install module back to you, typically within 24-48 hours of receiving your original part.
Installation and Post-Install Notes
Physical installation is as simple as disconnecting the battery, locating your original BCM (typically in the driver’s or passenger’s side kick panel/dash area), swapping the electrical connectors to the new module, and mounting it in place. However, due to the complex nature of modern vehicle systems, a couple of additional steps may be required after installation:
- Airbag System Sync: In some cases, the airbag warning light may illuminate after the BCM is replaced. This is because the BCM and the SDM (Sensing and Diagnostic Module) need to re-establish their security handshake. A professional scan tool is required to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure to resolve this.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and traction control function, a brake pedal position sensor relearn procedure might be necessary. This also requires a compatible diagnostic tool.
Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any part of the installation process.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct fit for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify that your original part number is on this list. This service is for part number 13580696 and will fit the following part numbers:
- 13580696
- 123589093
- 13588446
- 13584692
- 13583542
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
- REGAL 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- TERRAIN 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash), body control
- SPARK 13 Body Control (BCM); (left lower a-pillar)
- CAMARO 14 Body Control (BCM); (RH dash), Cpe
- EQUINOX 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash), body control
- SRX 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), ID 13580696
- VERANO 12 Body Control (BCM); (below center of dash)
- VOLT 12 Body Control (BCM); (RH engine compartment)
- CAMARO 12-13 Body Control (BCM); (RH dash)
- LACROSSE 12 Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), ID 13580696
- LACROSSE 13 Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this programming service work?
After you place your order, you will ship your original BCM to us. We will then transfer all the necessary data—including VIN, mileage, and key information—from your module to the replacement unit. We then ship the programmed module back to you, ready for installation.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
Yes, in 99% of cases. Because we clone your original data, the car will recognize the replacement module as its own, eliminating the need for dealership programming. In rare instances, a post-install procedure like an airbag sync or brake pedal relearn may be needed, as mentioned above.
Will I need to have my keys reprogrammed?
No. Since we transfer the security information from your original BCM, your existing keys will work exactly as they did before, with no additional programming required.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
Even if your module is non-communicative, we can often still extract the necessary data. Please contact us before ordering if your module has severe water or fire damage, as data recovery may not be possible in those extreme cases.
What is the turnaround time for the programming service?
We pride ourselves on a fast turnaround. The programming is typically completed and the module is shipped back out within one to two business days of us receiving your original part.
Do you charge a core fee?
No, there is no core charge for this service. You are sending your original module for data transfer, not as a core. You can keep your original module after the service is complete.