Tired of Your Car’s Bizarre Electrical Behavior?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all when it comes to vehicle electronics. If your 2011 Buick Regal, or another compatible GM vehicle, is suddenly acting possessed—with flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a stubborn security system, or random warning messages—the culprit is very often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). This isn’t just an annoyance; a faulty BCM can lead to a no-start condition, leaving you stranded. It’s the central command for your car’s body electronics, and when it goes, chaos follows.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We offer a professional programming service for this BCM, which fits multiple part numbers including 13574844, 13578420, 13577850, 13505326, and more. By transferring the unique data from your original BCM to this replacement unit, we eliminate the need for an expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. The module you receive back from us will be a true plug-and-play component, tailored specifically to your vehicle’s VIN and options.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2011 GMC Terrain that came into the shop with a classic parasitic draw. The owner had replaced the battery twice, but it would still be dead every few mornings. Other shops couldn’t find the source. After connecting my scan tool, I noticed the BCM wasn’t going to ‘sleep’ properly after the vehicle was shut off, causing a slow but steady drain. It wasn’t throwing any obvious codes, just failing to power down its internal circuits. Replacing the faulty module with a correctly programmed unit solved the issue instantly. This is a common failure mode that a simple battery test will never catch.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, your BCM is the likely cause. A failing module can often trigger communication error codes like U0140, U0155, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ Intermittent or non-working power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ Horn honking randomly or not working at all.
- ✔ The security system light stays on, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Inaccurate gauge readings on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ Wipers or turn signals operating erratically.
- ✔ Communication issues with other modules on the CAN bus network.
- ✔ A vehicle that refuses to start despite having a good battery and starter.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Once you receive your programmed module back from us, installation is simple. The BCM is typically located behind the driver’s side lower dash panel or kick panel.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the BCM: On most models like the Regal or SRX, it’s on the left-hand side of the dash. On the Cruze or Terrain, check the driver’s side kick panel area.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, remove any bolts or clips holding the module in place and take it out.
- Install the New Module: Seat your newly programmed BCM in the mounting bracket and secure it. Reconnect all the electrical connectors firmly until they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc. Please review the important post-installation notes below.
Important Post-Installation Procedures
While our programming makes this a plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a quick synchronization procedure after the BCM is replaced:
- 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” function. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system. This is only necessary if the light is on.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be required to ensure your brake lights and traction control system function correctly. This is also done with a compatible scan tool.
Disclaimer: Specific procedures can vary by vehicle. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
We guarantee this service for the following vehicles and part numbers. Please match your part number or vehicle to ensure compatibility.
Part Numbers: 13578420, 13577850, 13505326, 13500384, 13574844, 13504004, 13504494
- 2011 Buick Regal: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), w/o opt AUA
- 2013 Chevrolet Cruze: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), w/opt ATH
- 2011 Chevrolet Cruze: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- 2010 Cadillac SRX: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- 2010-2011 GMC Terrain: Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash)
- 2010 Chevrolet Equinox: Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
After you purchase, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, we extract the vehicle-specific data and flash it onto the replacement module. We then ship the ready-to-install BCM back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Do I need to send my original BCM if it’s completely dead?
Yes. In most cases, even if the BCM has failed, we can still retrieve the essential programming data from the memory chip. This data is critical for making the replacement module work in your car.
Is this a plug-and-play solution?
Yes, because we clone your original data, the replacement BCM will be plug-and-play. This means no additional programming is needed at a dealership. However, as noted, some vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure for the airbag or brake pedal sensor.
What is your core policy?
There is no core charge for this item. We need your original module to perform the programming service, but you are not required to return it for a refund.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module will correct issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. If you’re experiencing the symptoms listed, like erratic lights, locks, or no-start conditions related to the security system, this is the definitive fix. We recommend proper diagnosis to confirm the BCM is the fault before ordering.