Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play Solution
Are you battling bizarre electrical issues in your 2011-2012 Buick LaCrosse? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security system that acts up, or even a car that refuses to start can often be traced back to a single, central component: the Body Control Module (BCM). As the nerve center for your vehicle’s body electronics, a failing BCM can create a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect vehicle security and safety. I’ve spent over two decades diagnosing these exact symptoms, and I can tell you that swapping the BCM is often the definitive fix.
We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. This isn’t just a part; it’s a comprehensive service. By purchasing this BCM, you’re getting a fully tested replacement module that we will program with the data from your vehicle’s original BCM. This cloning process ensures that the replacement unit is a perfect match for your car’s specific configuration, VIN, and security keys. The result is a true plug-and-play installation, eliminating the need for expensive and complicated programming with a dealer scan tool.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2012 Chevy Equinox (which uses a similar BCM) with a complaint that made no sense at first. The radio would randomly shut off, the driver’s side power window wouldn’t work, and the anti-theft light would flash, causing a no-start condition. They had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After connecting my diagnostic tool, I found a slew of communication error codes, most notably a U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module). This pointed directly to the BCM as the culprit. Instead of a new, unprogrammed unit from the dealer, we used a cloned BCM. The customer mailed in their faulty module, we transferred the data, and shipped the replacement back. They installed it in their driveway in under an hour, and every single electrical gremlin was gone. This process saved them hundreds and got their daily driver back on the road fast.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM could be the root cause. A proper diagnosis is key, but these are classic symptoms I’ve seen countless times in the shop.
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system light is on, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔ Horn, wipers, or headlights operate erratically or not at all.
- ✔ The instrument cluster displays incorrect information or warning lights stay on.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
- ✔ A noticeable parasitic battery drain that kills the battery overnight.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Our cloning service makes installing your replacement 2011-2012 LaCrosse BCM a simple process. After you receive the programmed module from us, follow these general steps. The BCM is typically located in the driver’s side (LH) kick panel area.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before starting work.
- Locate the BCM: On the LaCrosse, you’ll find the BCM behind the kick panel to the left of the brake pedal. You may need to remove a trim piece for access.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip all electrical harness connectors from the old BCM. They often have locking tabs that need to be pressed or lifted. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt or unclip the original BCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location and securely re-attach the electrical connectors.
- Reconnect the Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—windows, locks, lights, wipers, etc. Note the potential post-install procedures below.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our goal is a seamless installation, some vehicle systems may require a relearn procedure after the BCM is replaced. This is normal and part of the vehicle’s security and safety architecture.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. This syncs the airbag system with the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, the brake pedal position sensor may need to be recalibrated to ensure correct brake light operation and to satisfy the traction control system.
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual for your specific vehicle for detailed instructions and torque specs. If you are not comfortable performing this work, please seek assistance from a qualified professional mechanic.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct replacement for several part numbers and fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please match your original part number to one in the list below or verify fitment by your vehicle’s make, model, and year. This module is compatible with part numbers: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, and 13583451.
- 2011-2012 Buick LaCrosse
- 2011-2013 Chevrolet Volt
- 2011-2012 Cadillac SRX
- 2011 GMC Terrain
- 2011 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2011 Chevrolet Camaro (Convertible)
- 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
- 2012 Chevrolet Orlando
- 2011 Buick Regal (with option AUA)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
After you place your order, we will provide you with instructions and a shipping address. You ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, we extract the critical vehicle data and flash it onto the replacement module. We then ship the ready-to-install BCM back to you.
Do I need to send my keys?
No, you do not need to send your keys. Because we are cloning the data from your original module, the replacement will recognize your existing keys automatically.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or water damaged?
In many cases, even with significant damage, we can still recover the necessary data. Please contact us before ordering if your module has severe physical or water damage so we can assess the likelihood of a successful data transfer.
Is there a core charge for this 2011-2012 LaCrosse BCM?
No, there is no core charge. You are not required to return your old module to us after the programming service is complete, but we do need it initially to perform the service.
What tools are needed for the post-install relearn procedures?
The Airbag System Sync and Brake Pedal Position Relearn procedures require a professional-grade bidirectional scan tool, such as those made by Autel, Snap-on, or a GM Tech 2. Basic code readers cannot perform these functions.