Tired of Bizarre Electrical Problems in Your GM Vehicle?
Is your car acting possessed? Lights flashing randomly, power windows with a mind of their own, or the security system preventing you from starting the engine? These aren’t just annoyances; they’re classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and unpredictable issues. Finding a replacement is only half the battle; the real challenge is the expensive dealership programming required to make it work with your car.
This is where we come in. We offer a reliable, ready-to-install 2012 Cruze BCM with a hassle-free mail-in cloning service. You simply send us your original BCM, and our expert technicians will transfer all the critical vehicle-specific data—including VIN, mileage, and security information—to this replacement module. We then ship it back to you, ready for a true plug-and-play installation. No dealer visits, no towing, no surprise programming fees. It’s the straightforward, cost-effective solution you’ve been looking for.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Cruze with a Mind of Its Own
I remember a 2012 Cruze that came into the shop with a laundry list of complaints from the owner. The radio would turn on and off, the dome light flickered constantly, and sometimes the car just wouldn’t start, showing a ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ message. The customer had already replaced the battery and checked the fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I found a slew of communication error codes (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of sending him to the dealership for a new module and a $300+ programming bill, we performed a cloning service just like this one. He had the car back the next day, all gremlins gone. This service bridges the gap for both DIYers and independent shops, providing a dealer-level fix without the dealer-level cost.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM could be the culprit. A failing module often won’t store specific DTCs itself, but will cause other modules to log communication errors like U0140.
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights that stay on, flicker, or don’t work at all.
- ✔ The security system light is on, and the vehicle won’t start (no-crank condition).
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Wipers activating on their own or not responding to the switch.
- ✔ Instrument cluster gauges behaving erratically or going dark.
- ✔ Communication error codes (U-codes) stored in other modules.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Our cloning service makes the physical swap simple. Once you receive the programmed module from us, follow these general steps. For your 2012 Cruze, the BCM is typically located in the driver’s side kick panel.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the BCM: Access the BCM by removing the necessary trim panels. On most models, this is the kick panel to the left of the brake pedal.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount the replacement module you received from us and securely plug in all the electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Verify Operation: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair is successful.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our service ensures the core programming is correct, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. Please be aware of the following potential procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If your 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 and is only required if the light is on.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be needed to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Specific procedures and BCM locations can vary. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance specific to your vehicle.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module and service are compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your original part number is on our list. This part, 13583450, is an exact match or a direct replacement for the following part numbers: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, and 13583451.
It fits models including, but not limited to:
- Chevrolet Cruze (2012): Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Camaro (2011): Body Control (BCM); (RH dash), Conv
- Chevrolet Equinox (2011): Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash), body control
- Chevrolet Volt (2011-2013): Body Control (BCM); (RH engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Orlando (2012): Body Control (BCM); (below center console)
- Buick LaCrosse (2011-2012): Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- Buick Regal (2011): Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), w/opt AUA
- Cadillac SRX (2011-2012): Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- GMC Terrain (2011): Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash), body control
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the mail-in cloning service work?
After you purchase, we will contact you with simple instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians will transfer the data to the replacement unit and ship it back to you, usually within 1-2 business days.
Do I need to get this programmed by a dealer?
No! The main benefit of our service is that the module arrives pre-programmed with your vehicle’s data. This allows for a plug-and-play installation, saving you hundreds in dealership programming fees.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM is failing, we can still extract the necessary data. If your module is severely damaged (e.g., by fire or water), please contact us before ordering to discuss options.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my car’s problems?
This service corrects issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. While the symptoms listed are very common for BCM failure, proper vehicle diagnosis is essential. We guarantee our programming service and the functionality of the module we provide.
What is a core charge? Do I have to send my old part back?
There is no core charge. However, you must send us your original BCM first so we can clone the data. After the service, you can keep your original module.
Will this work for my 2012 Cruze BCM?
Yes, this service is a direct solution for the 2012 Cruze BCM. It is also compatible with a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please check the part number list to ensure compatibility.