Restore Your Vehicle’s Functionality and Peace of Mind
If you’re dealing with baffling electrical issues in your 2013 Chevrolet Malibu or another compatible GM vehicle, a failing Body Control Module (BCM) is often the culprit. I’ve seen it countless times in my 20+ years on the shop floor: windows that won’t go down, intermittent wipers, dashboard lights flickering like a holiday display, or a car that refuses to start for no apparent reason. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re signs that your car’s central nervous system is in trouble. This can be a frustrating and costly problem to solve at a dealership, often involving expensive new parts and mandatory programming fees.
We offer a straightforward, reliable solution. This is a tested, fully functional BCM that comes ready for installation through our professional cloning service. You simply send us your original BCM, and we transfer all the critical, vehicle-specific data—like the VIN, key information, and security settings—to this replacement unit. The result? A module that is plug-and-play, saving you from the time, cost, and complexity of dealership programming. We handle the technical work so you can get your car back to normal, fast.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Malibu
I remember a 2013 Malibu that came into the shop with a list of symptoms that sounded like a haunting. The owner said the radio would randomly change stations, the interior lights would pulse, and occasionally, the car wouldn’t recognize the key fob. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I saw a storm of communication error codes (U-codes) pointing to a network issue. The common link was the 2013 Malibu BCM. These modules are the traffic cops for the vehicle’s electronic systems, and when they start to fail internally, they send out confusing signals, creating chaos. By swapping in a cloned BCM, all the ghostly issues vanished instantly. It’s a classic case where shotgunning parts costs more than a proper diagnosis and a targeted fix like this one.
Is Your Malibu Showing These BCM Failure Signs?
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need. Look out for:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft light staying on, preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Warning messages on the dash like “Service Stabilitrak” or “Service Power Steering.”
- ✔ The radio or infotainment system behaving strangely or not turning on.
- ✔ Communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), especially U-codes like U0100, U0140, or U0155.
- ✔ Wipers or turn signals activating on their own or not working at all.
Your Simple BCM Swap Guide
Our cloning service makes the physical installation a simple swap. Once you receive the programmed module from us, you can get your vehicle running in under an hour.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2013 Malibu, the BCM is typically found behind the driver’s side kick panel, near the fuse box. Consult a service manual for the exact location on other compatible models.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors from your 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 BCM you received from us and securely reconnect all wiring harnesses. Make sure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Test Functionality: Start the car and test all the systems controlled by the BCM—windows, locks, lights, wipers, etc.—to ensure everything is working correctly.
Important Post-Installation Steps
In some cases, additional synchronization procedures may be needed after installation. This is normal and ensures all vehicle systems communicate properly.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated after the swap, a professional scan tool is required to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag system.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: Some models may require a brake pedal position sensor relearn to ensure the brake lights and traction control system function as intended.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Guaranteed Fitment for These GM Models
This BCM is a direct-fit replacement for several vehicles and part numbers. Please verify your part number or vehicle model in the list below to ensure compatibility. This module is compatible with part numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, and 13589325.
- Buick Encore: 2013-2014 (LH side of dash)
- Buick Regal: 2013 (LH dash)
- Buick Verano: 2013-2017 (Below center of dash)
- Cadillac SRX: 2013 (LH dash)
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2013 (LH kick panel, w/o opt ATH), 2014-2015 (LH kick panel), 2016 (LH kick panel, VIN P – Limited)
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2013-2017 (LH side dash)
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2013 (LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2013-2014 (Below center console)
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Left lower a-pillar, gasoline model)
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2014 (LH side of dash)
- Chevrolet Volt: 2013 (RH engine compartment, ID 13580697 or 13586273)
- GMC Terrain: 2013-2017 (LH side dash)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cloning service work?
It’s simple! After you purchase, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians will transfer its unique data to the replacement module. We then ship the plug-and-play replacement back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Do I need to program this BCM after I receive it?
No. The main benefit of our cloning service is that the module arrives pre-programmed with your car’s specific information. This means no extra trips to the dealer for expensive programming. Just install it and you’re ready to go, though some minor relearn procedures may be needed as noted.
What are the most common signs of a bad 2013 Malibu BCM?
The most common symptoms are strange electrical problems. This includes power windows, locks, or lights not working correctly, the anti-theft system preventing the car from starting, and various random warning lights appearing on the instrument cluster.
What happens if my airbag light comes on after installation?
This can happen occasionally and is not a sign of a defective part. It means the new BCM needs to be electronically ‘introduced’ to the airbag module. This is done with a professional scan tool using the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ function, a quick procedure for any competent repair shop.
Is there a core charge or do I need to return my old part?
There is no core charge for this item. We only need your original module to perform the data transfer service. Once the service is complete, you can keep your original module.