Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play Solution
If you’re dealing with bizarre electrical issues in your 2013 Chevrolet Malibu—like power windows with a mind of their own, flickering dashboard lights, or a security system that prevents your car from starting—a failing Body Control Module (BCM) is the likely culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty BCM can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. It acts as the central hub for all your vehicle’s body-related electronics, and when it fails, chaos ensues. Dealerships often quote astronomical prices for a new module plus mandatory programming fees. Our service offers a smarter, more affordable path forward.
We provide a professionally programmed 2013 Malibu BCM that is ready for installation right out of the box. The process is simple: you purchase this service, send us your original BCM, and we meticulously transfer all the critical vehicle-specific data to this replacement unit. This cloning process ensures that the replacement module is a perfect digital match for your car, preserving all original settings and key information. This eliminates the need for expensive dealer-only programming tools, making it a true plug-and-play repair for both professional shops and determined DIYers.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2013 Chevy Cruze (which uses a similar BCM) with a complaint that stumped two other shops. The radio would turn on by itself, the interior lights would pulse randomly, and occasionally the car wouldn’t start, flashing a security warning. There were no clear trouble codes pointing to one component. From experience, I knew these ‘ghost’ issues often trace back to the BCM. We pulled the original module, cloned it to one of our replacement units, and installed it. The problems vanished instantly. The customer saved hundreds over the dealer quote and got their car back the next day, fully functional.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system light is illuminated, causing a no-start condition.
- ✔ Intermittent warning lights on the instrument cluster with no apparent cause.
- ✔ Communication error codes, such as U0140, stored in other modules.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or failing to work.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Installation
Once you receive your programmed module from us, the physical swap is very manageable. For the 2013 Malibu, the BCM is typically located behind the driver’s side kick panel.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before beginning work.
- Locate the BCM: Remove the driver’s side kick panel (the plastic trim piece by your left foot) to access the module.
- 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 newly programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘On’ position and test all body functions—windows, locks, lights, wipers, and radio—to confirm proper operation before starting the engine.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our programming makes this a plug-and-play repair, some GM vehicles may require simple relearn procedures after the battery has been disconnected or a new module is installed.
- Airbag System Sync: In some cases, the airbag warning light may illuminate after installation. This is not a fault with the BCM but a security handshake issue. A professional scan tool is required to perform the “Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM” procedure to sync the modules and clear the light.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: To ensure correct brake light and traction control operation, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary. This can also be performed with a compatible diagnostic tool.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This BCM is a direct replacement for part number 13589197 and is also compatible with part numbers 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589324, and 13589325. It is confirmed to fit the following models:
- Buick Encore: 2013-2014
- Buick Regal: 2013
- Buick Verano: 2013-2017
- Cadillac SRX: 2013
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2013-2016 (including ‘Limited’ models)
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2013-2017
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2013
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Gasoline models)
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Volt: 2013
- GMC Terrain: 2013-2017
Frequently Asked Questions About Our BCM Service
How does the programming service work?
It’s a simple mail-in process. After you place your order, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, we transfer its data to the replacement unit and ship the ready-to-install module back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Do I need to send my keys?
No, you do not need to send your keys. Our cloning process copies all the necessary security information from your original module, so your existing keys will work perfectly upon installation.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my car’s problems?
This service corrects issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. While the symptoms listed are common indicators of BCM failure, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the BCM is the root cause before ordering.
What is your warranty policy?
We stand by our work. All our programmed modules come with a comprehensive warranty covering both the hardware and our programming service. Please see our warranty page for full details.
Do I need to return my old BCM after installation?
No. There is no core charge for this item. You send us your original module for the data cloning service, but you do not need to return it afterward. We supply the replacement part.