Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Perfectly Matched BCM
If you’re dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2012 Chevrolet Volt or another compatible GM vehicle—like power windows that won’t cooperate, interior lights with a mind of their own, or frustrating starting problems—the Body Control Module (BCM) is the most likely culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a failing BCM can turn a reliable car into a source of daily frustration. This isn’t just a part; it’s the central nervous system for your car’s comfort and convenience features. We offer a straightforward, reliable solution that gets you back on the road without the dealership price tag or complexity.
This service provides you with a replacement BCM programmed with your vehicle’s exact data. The process is simple: after your purchase, we’ll provide instructions for you to ship your original BCM to our facility. Our expert technicians will then perform a full data transfer, or ‘cloning,’ from your original module to this replacement unit. This ensures all your vehicle’s specific settings and security information are perfectly preserved. The result is a true plug-and-play module, ready for installation the moment you receive it. This is the same reliable process many independent shops rely on to save their customers time and money.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Confused Volt
A customer brought in a 2012 Volt with a laundry list of complaints: the radio would randomly shut off, the dome light flickered, and occasionally, the car wouldn’t recognize the key fob. They had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. Diagnostics showed several communication error codes (U-codes) pointing to a network issue. Instead of just replacing modules, we monitored the BCM’s data stream and saw it was dropping out intermittently. This is a classic sign of internal BCM failure. By providing a cloned BCM, we restored all functions perfectly without needing to reprogram the entire vehicle’s security system, saving the customer hundreds of dollars and a trip to the dealer.
Is Your GM Vehicle Exhibiting These Electrical Issues?
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on, flickering, or failing to turn on.
- ✔ The security system acting up, causing no-start conditions or false alarms.
- ✔ The radio or infotainment system randomly shutting down or malfunctioning.
- ✔ Warning lights on the dashboard, such as for the airbag or traction control system.
- ✔ Communication error codes stored, particularly U-codes like U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module).
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your programmed BCM is a manageable task for a DIY enthusiast. While the exact location varies by model (see fitment list), the general process is consistent.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2012 Volt, the BCM is found in the right-hand side of the engine compartment. For other models, it’s typically located under the dash on the driver’s or passenger’s side or in a kick panel.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be pressed to release. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New BCM: Mount your new, programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Information
Because your new module is a direct clone, most vehicles will not require any additional steps. However, in some cases, the following procedures may be necessary:
- 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 re-establishes communication between the airbag and body control modules.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On certain models, a brake pedal sensor recalibration might be required to ensure brake lights and stability control systems function correctly.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems can be complex. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any part of the process.
Verified Compatibility for These Makes and Models
This BCM is a direct fit for the following vehicles. Please match your part number (13580696, 123589093, 13588446, 13584692, 13583542) and check the location notes.
- 2012 Buick Regal: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- 2012-2013 Buick LaCrosse: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- 2012 Buick Verano: Body Control (BCM); (below center of dash)
- 2012 Cadillac SRX: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), ID 13580696
- 2012-2013 Chevrolet Camaro: Body Control (BCM); (RH dash)
- 2014 Chevrolet Camaro: Body Control (BCM); (RH dash), Cpe
- 2012 Chevrolet Equinox: Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash), body control
- 2013 Chevrolet Spark: Body Control (BCM); (left lower a-pillar)
- 2012 Chevrolet Volt: Body Control (BCM); (RH engine compartment)
- 2012 GMC Terrain: Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash), body control
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a BCM cloning service involve?
You send us your vehicle’s original BCM. Our technicians extract the unique vehicle-specific data (like VIN, key information, and option settings) and flash it onto the replacement module we provide. This makes the new part a perfect electronic match for your car.
Will I need a dealership to program this module?
No. The main benefit of our service is that the module arrives fully programmed and ready for installation. This is a true plug-and-play solution that saves you the time, cost, and hassle of a dealership visit.
How long does the programming service take?
We typically program and ship your replacement BCM within 24-48 hours of receiving your original module. We will send you tracking information as soon as it’s on its way back to you.
Is it hard to find and replace the 2012 Volt BCM?
For the 2012 Volt, the BCM is located in the right-hand (passenger) side of the engine compartment, making it relatively accessible compared to modules buried deep under the dashboard in other vehicles.
What happens if my airbag light comes on after I install it?
This is uncommon but can happen. It means the BCM and the airbag module (SDM) need to be electronically re-introduced. A repair shop with a professional-grade scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is no core charge or deposit. The price you see is the total cost for the programmed replacement module and the cloning service.