Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play Solution
If you’re dealing with bizarre and frustrating electrical issues in your 2011 Chevy Cruze, a failing Body Control Module (BCM) is often the culprit. As the central command center for your car’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of problems, from flickering lights to a no-start condition. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a serious safety concern. We offer a reliable, cost-effective solution with our professionally programmed BCM, part number 13578420, designed to get you back on the road without the exorbitant costs and scheduling hassles of a dealership visit.
Our unique service simplifies a complex repair. Instead of you needing to have a new module programmed on-site with expensive dealer-specific tools, we handle all the technical work for you. You simply send us your original BCM, and we transfer all the critical data—including VIN, mileage, and key information—to this replacement unit. The module you receive back is a direct, plug-and-play replacement, making the physical installation straightforward for a DIY enthusiast or any professional mechanic.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Haunted Cruze
A few months back, a 2011 Chevy Cruze was towed to my shop with a laundry list of complaints: the radio would turn on and off by itself, the turn signals worked intermittently, and sometimes the car just wouldn’t crank. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw a dozen communication loss codes (U-codes) pointing to multiple systems. This is a classic sign of a failing network controller. Instead of chasing individual components, I went straight for the central hub: the BCM. A failing 2011 Cruze BCM can disrupt the entire CAN bus network, making it look like multiple unrelated parts have failed simultaneously. By correctly identifying the BCM as the root cause, we saved the customer hundreds in unnecessary diagnostic time and parts.
Is Your Cruze Exhibiting These BCM Failure Signs?
A failing BCM can manifest in ways that might not seem connected. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your body control module is a likely suspect:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights (headlights, dome lights, dash lights).
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or security system acting strangely.
- ✔ The horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
- ✔ A no-crank or no-start condition, even with a good battery and starter.
- ✔ Multiple warning lights on the dashboard, such as for the airbag or traction control system.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, like U0100, U0140, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ Wipers activating on their own or not responding to the switch.
A Straightforward Guide to BCM Installation
Because we pre-program the module for you, the installation is a simple swap. Here’s a general guide:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On the Chevy Cruze, the BCM is typically found behind the driver’s side kick panel, near the fuse box area.
- Remove the Old Module: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors. These connectors have locking tabs, so be gentle to avoid breaking them. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Reconnect all electrical connectors firmly until they click into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Final Checks: Start the vehicle and test all related functions: lights, wipers, locks, windows, etc. Please see the note below regarding potential post-installation procedures.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our programming handles the majority of the setup, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. Specifically:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure must be performed with a professional scan tool to sync the modules.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be needed to ensure correct brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician for your specific model’s procedures.
Verified Compatibility for Your Vehicle
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 13578420 and is interchangeable with several other part numbers. Please verify your original part number matches one of the following to ensure compatibility. This module fits:
- Buick Regal 2011: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), w/o opt AUA
- Chevrolet Cruze 2011: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Cruze 2013: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), w/opt ATH
- Cadillac SRX 2010: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- GMC Terrain 2010-2011: Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash)
- Chevrolet Equinox 2010: Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash)
This module replaces the following part numbers: 13577850, 13505326, 13500384, 13574844, 13504004, 13504494, and 13578420.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
After you place your order, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians will clone all the necessary data to the replacement BCM and ship it back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Do I need to send my keys?
No, you do not need to send your keys. Our cloning process transfers your vehicle’s existing key information from your old module to the new one, so your current keys will work perfectly.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, because we clone your original module’s data, this part is designed to be plug-and-play. No further programming is required for the vast majority of functions. Some vehicles may require minor relearn procedures as noted in the description.
What if my original BCM is not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM is failing, we can still extract the necessary data. Please contact us before ordering if your module is severely damaged by fire or water, or if a technician has confirmed it is completely non-communicative.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You are required to send your original BCM to us for the cloning service, but you do not need to pay an additional core deposit.