Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain without the Dealer Headache
Is your 2013 Chevrolet Malibu acting possessed? Flickering dash lights, windows that won’t roll down, a security light that won’t turn off, or even a frustrating no-start condition can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central nervous system for your car’s body electronics, and when it goes bad, it can cause a cascade of confusing and intermittent problems. In my 20+ years in the shop, I’ve seen drivers spend hundreds on diagnostics, only to find the issue was this central computer all along.
Forget the expensive dealership visit, the towing fees, and the costly programming charges. We offer a simple, reliable solution. This is a replacement BCM that comes fully programmed using the data from your original module. Our mail-in cloning service makes this repair a true plug-and-play process. We transfer your vehicle’s specific information—including VIN and security keys—to this replacement unit, ensuring it communicates perfectly with your car’s other computers right out of the box.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Malibu with a Mind of Its Own
A customer brought in a 2013 Malibu that was driving them crazy. The radio would randomly shut off, the dome light would stay on, and occasionally, the car wouldn’t start, showing a ‘Service Theft Deterrent System’ message. They had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I noticed multiple communication loss codes (U-codes) with various modules. This is a classic sign that the network’s ‘traffic cop’—the BCM—is failing. Instead of a complex rewiring job, we used a cloned 2013 Malibu BCM. Once installed, every single electrical gremlin vanished. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the most complex-seeming issues have a straightforward component solution.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of BCM Failure?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ Warning lights on the dash that have no apparent cause (e.g., security, airbag, traction control).
- ✔ The vehicle’s theft-deterrent system prevents the engine from starting.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss, such as U0100, U0140, or other U-codes.
- ✔ Wipers, horn, or remote keyless entry working erratically or not at all.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait about 10 minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On the 2013 Malibu, the BCM is typically found behind the driver’s side kick panel, near the fuse box. You may need to remove a plastic trim piece to access it.
- ✔ 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 Module: Mount your new, programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- ✔ Power Up: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position (without starting the engine) and test all body functions like windows, locks, and lights to confirm proper operation.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service makes this a plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a quick recalibration after the BCM is replaced. This is normal and depends on your specific model and options.
- 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’ procedure. 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 relearn may be required to ensure brake lights and stability control systems function correctly.
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified professional if you are unsure about any step. Specific procedures can vary slightly by vehicle.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 13580697 and is also compatible with the following part numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, and 13589325. It is confirmed to fit the following models:
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2013-2015, 2016 (Limited)
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2013-2017
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2013
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Gasoline)
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Volt: 2013
- Buick Encore: 2013-2014
- Buick Regal: 2013
- Buick Verano: 2013-2017
- Cadillac SRX: 2013
- GMC Terrain: 2013-2017
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, our technicians will extract the unique data and transfer it to the replacement module. We then ship the plug-and-play replacement back to you.
Do I need to take my car to a dealer after installation?
No. Our cloning service eliminates the need for any dealer programming. The module arrives ready to install and function, saving you time and money.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable job. The BCM is usually located in an accessible spot like behind the driver’s kick panel and only requires simple hand tools to swap.
What if my airbag light comes on after I install the new BCM?
This can happen occasionally. It simply means the new BCM needs to be electronically introduced to the airbag module. A repair shop with a professional-grade scan tool can perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure in a few minutes to resolve this.
Do I need to send in my old part? Is there a core charge?
Yes, you must send us your original BCM for the cloning process. However, there is no core charge, and you can keep your original module after we have completed the service.
Will this programmed 2013 Malibu BCM fix my exact problem?
If your vehicle’s issues match the common symptoms of BCM failure and proper diagnostics have pointed to the BCM, this part is the definitive solution. It restores the factory functionality of all related electronic systems.