As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can turn a reliable vehicle into a source of constant frustration. If your 2012 Equinox is plagued by bizarre electrical issues—from lights that have a mind of their own to power accessories that work intermittently—you’ve likely found the culprit. The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it fails, chaos ensues. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a safety concern.
We offer a straightforward, reliable solution. This is a replacement BCM, part number 13580696, that comes pre-programmed with your vehicle’s specific data. Our professional cloning service eliminates the need for expensive and time-consuming dealership visits. Simply send us your original BCM, and we’ll transfer all the essential information—like VIN, security keys, and option content—to this replacement unit. We then ship it back to you, ready for a true plug-and-play installation. It’s the most efficient way to get your Equinox back to 100%.
I remember a 2012 Equinox that came into the shop with a list of symptoms that made no sense together. The radio would cut out, the driver’s side window wouldn’t roll down, and the anti-theft light would flash randomly while driving. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked fuses. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw multiple communication loss codes (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of a costly new module and hours of programming at the dealer, we used a cloned unit like this one. The swap took less than 30 minutes, and every single electrical gremlin vanished. It’s a textbook example of how a correctly programmed 2012 Equinox BCM is the key to a successful repair.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔️ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights (headlights, dome lights, dash lights).
- ✔️ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors working intermittently or not at all.
- ✔️ The vehicle’s security system engaging randomly or preventing the car from starting.
- ✔️ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when needed.
- ✔️ Multiple warning lights on the dashboard with no apparent cause.
- ✔️ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss, such as U0140, U0155, or U0164.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On the 2012 Equinox, the BCM is typically found on the left (driver’s) side of the dashboard, often behind the lower dash panel or near the fuse box.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that must be depressed. 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. Securely plug in all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—lights, windows, locks, wipers, and radio—to confirm the repair was successful.
Important Post-Installation Checks
Because this 2012 Equinox BCM is cloned from your original, most vehicles will not require additional procedures. However, in some cases, you may need to perform a simple relearn process:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a scan tool procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ may be needed to sync the modules.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure proper brake light and stability control function, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary on some models.
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified professional if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 13580696, 123589093, 13588446, 13584692, and 13583542 and fits the following vehicles:
- ✔️ 2012 Buick LaCrosse (LH kick panel, ID 13580696)
- ✔️ 2013 Buick LaCrosse (LH kick panel)
- ✔️ 2012 Buick Regal (LH dash)
- ✔️ 2012 Buick Verano (Below center of dash)
- ✔️ 2012-2013 Chevrolet Camaro (RH dash)
- ✔️ 2014 Chevrolet Camaro (RH dash, Coupe)
- ✔️ 2012 Chevrolet Equinox (LH side dash)
- ✔️ 2013 Chevrolet Spark (Left lower a-pillar)
- ✔️ 2012 Chevrolet Volt (RH engine compartment)
- ✔️ 2012 GMC Terrain (LH side dash)
- ✔️ 2012 Cadillac SRX (LH dash, ID 13580696)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does your ‘cloning’ service mean?
Cloning is the process of transferring the exact data from your original BCM to the replacement unit. This includes your vehicle’s VIN, security information, and specific options. This makes the replacement a plug-and-play part, saving you from a costly trip to the dealer for programming.
Do I need special tools to install this 2012 Equinox BCM?
No. Basic hand tools for removing dash panels and unbolting the module are all that’s required for the physical installation. Since the module comes pre-programmed, you won’t need any special diagnostic computers or software.
How does the mail-in process work?
After you place your order, we will contact you with detailed instructions on how to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, we perform the programming service and ship the replacement module back to you, typically within one business day.
What if the airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is uncommon but can happen. It simply means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag module (SDM). A professional technician can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure with a capable scan tool to resolve this.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. We need your original module to perform the programming service, but you do not need to send it back to us for a refund after the job is done.