Are you dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2013-2014 Chevrolet Trax? Flickering dashboard lights, power windows with a mind of their own, or a security light that won’t turn off are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your vehicle’s body electronics, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating problems. Getting a replacement from the dealership often means expensive parts, labor, and programming fees. We offer a smarter, more affordable solution.
This is a fully tested, replacement BCM for your vehicle. The key to our service is our professional cloning process. You simply ship your original, faulty BCM to us. Our technicians will then extract the unique, vehicle-specific data—including key information and security settings—and transfer it directly to this replacement unit. We then ship the programmed module back to you, ready for a true plug-and-play installation. This process completely eliminates the need for a trip to the dealer for costly programming, saving you time and money.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Spontaneous Trax
A customer brought in a 2014 Trax with a list of complaints that sounded like the vehicle was haunted. The horn would honk randomly, the wipers would activate on a sunny day, and the battery would be dead every few mornings. Initial checks on the battery and alternator were fine. When I connected my scan tool, I found a slew of ‘U’ codes (communication codes) pointing to a network-wide failure. In my experience, when multiple unrelated electronic systems act up simultaneously, the BCM is the prime suspect. It’s the central hub, and its failure was causing chaos on the vehicle’s data bus. A simple used BCM wouldn’t work due to the anti-theft system. By cloning the customer’s original BCM, we preserved all the security data for a simple, effective repair that got them back on the road without any lingering electrical ghosts.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not working.
- ✔ The security system light is illuminated, and the vehicle may not start.
- ✔ Unexplained parasitic battery drain that kills the battery overnight.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electronic component replacement.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On the 2013-2014 Trax, the BCM is typically located on the left-hand (driver’s) side of the dash, often behind the lower kick panel.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the module. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the old BCM and remove it from the vehicle.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your newly programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors.
- ✔ Power Up: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position and verify that your vehicle’s electronics are functioning correctly.
- ✔ Post-Install Checks: Be aware that some vehicles may require additional steps after installation. Please see the notes below.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service makes this a plug-and-play part, some vehicle systems may need to be re-synced after the BCM is re-installed. This is normal. Please be aware of the following potential procedures:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is on after installation, a procedure called ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ is required. This must be done with a professional-grade scan tool to sync the airbag system with the new BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration may be needed to ensure your brake lights and traction control system function properly.
Disclaimer: Specific procedures can vary by vehicle. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 13589324 and is interchangeable with the following part numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, and 13589325. It is guaranteed to fit the following models:
- 2013-2014 Chevrolet Trax
- 2013-2017 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2013-2017 GMC Terrain
- 2013-2015 Chevrolet Cruze (and 2016 Cruze Limited)
- 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2013-2014 Buick Encore
- 2013-2017 Buick Verano
- 2013 Buick Regal
- 2013 Cadillac SRX
- 2013 Chevrolet Volt
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Spark (gasoline model)
- 2013-2014 Chevrolet Orlando
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a BCM?
The Body Control Module (BCM) is a computer in your car that manages and controls many of the non-engine related functions, such as power windows, lights, door locks, wipers, and the security system.
How does your programming service work?
After you place your order, we will provide instructions for you to ship your original BCM to us. Our technicians will transfer the critical data from your module to the replacement unit. We then ship the ready-to-install BCM back to you.
Why is this better than just buying a used BCM from a junkyard?
A standard used BCM will not work correctly because it’s programmed to a different vehicle’s VIN and security system. Our cloning service makes the replacement BCM a perfect match for your specific car, ensuring a plug-and-play installation without anti-theft issues.
Will I need any special tools for installation?
For the physical installation, you’ll only need basic hand tools to access the module (like a socket set or screwdriver). However, as noted, a professional scan tool may be required for post-installation procedures like an airbag system sync if the light appears.
Is there a core charge?
No, there is no core charge. We need your original module to perform the data cloning service, but you are welcome to keep it afterward.