Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain and Banish Electrical Gremlins
Is your 2013 Chevrolet Malibu or other compatible GM vehicle acting possessed? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a security system that won’t cooperate, or random warning lights on the dash are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your car’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause widespread, frustrating issues. In my 20+ years as a technician, I’ve seen how a bad BCM can make a perfectly good car feel unreliable. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect safety systems and your peace of mind.
Instead of facing a costly trip to the dealership for a new module and expensive programming fees, our professional cloning service offers a streamlined, affordable solution. We transfer the essential data from your original BCM directly to this replacement unit. This means the replacement 2013 Malibu BCM arrives at your door ready for a simple, plug-and-play installation, preserving your vehicle’s original key programming and settings. It’s the most efficient way to get your car back to normal without the dealership hassle.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2013 Chevy Cruze with a bizarre complaint: the radio would turn on by itself, the driver’s side power window worked intermittently, and the anti-theft light would flash randomly, sometimes preventing the car from starting. They had already replaced the battery and checked fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I saw multiple U-codes (communication errors) pointing to the BCM. A failing 2013 Malibu BCM (or in this case, a Cruze BCM of the same family) often won’t set a single, clear trouble code. Instead, it creates a storm of communication faults that can send you chasing ghosts. By swapping in a cloned module, we restored all functions in under an hour, solving a problem that had plagued the owner for months.
Your Guide to a Straightforward Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electronic components.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On the 2013 Malibu, the BCM is typically found behind the driver’s side kick panel. For other models, its location may vary (e.g., under the dash, in the engine compartment). Consult a service manual for your specific vehicle.
- ✔ Remove the Original Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Most have a locking tab that needs to be depressed or lifted. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Ship Us Your Original BCM: After you place your order, we will provide you with detailed instructions and the shipping address. Please ensure your contact information is correct. Pack your module securely to prevent damage during transit.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, and interior/exterior lights.
- ✔ The security or anti-theft system activates randomly or prevents the car from starting.
- ✔ Horn honking unexpectedly or not working at all.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights (like ABS, Airbag, or Traction Control) illuminating without a clear cause.
- ✔ Communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), such as U0100, U0140, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ Wipers or turn signals behaving erratically.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service for the 2013 Malibu BCM makes this a plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a recalibration. Please be aware of the following:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is on after installation, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. This syncs the airbag system with the new BCM. This is only necessary if the light appears.
- 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.
- No Core Charge: You are not required to return your original module to us after the service is complete, as we only need it for the data transfer. There is no core charge or fee.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any procedure.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct fit for modules with part numbers 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, or 13589325. It is compatible with the following vehicles and options:
- 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)
- 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 this cloning service work?
After you purchase, we’ll contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. We then extract the unique data and program it into the replacement module. We ship the ready-to-install module back to you, typically within 1-2 business days of receiving yours.
Will my keys and remote fobs still work?
Yes. Because we clone the data from your original module, the replacement BCM will recognize your existing keys and remotes. No key reprogramming is necessary.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM is failing, we can still extract the necessary data. If your module is severely damaged (e.g., by fire or water), please contact us before ordering to discuss options.
Do I need special tools for the installation?
For the physical swap, you’ll only need basic hand tools like a socket set and a trim removal tool to access the BCM. No programming tools are required for installation, though a professional scan tool might be needed for post-install relearn procedures in some cases.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my car’s problems?
This service corrects issues caused by a faulty BCM. While the symptoms listed are very common for BCM failure, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the BCM is the root cause before purchasing.