Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Vehicle?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Body Control Module (BCM) can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. Your 2013 Chevrolet Malibu’s BCM is the central command center for its body electronics—power windows, door locks, interior and exterior lighting, security system, and more. When it starts to fail, the symptoms can be bizarre and maddening, often mimicking other problems. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a permanent solution to those perplexing issues.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free repair service. We take the complex, expensive step of dealership programming out of the equation. By cloning the data from your original module onto this fully tested unit, we provide a true plug-and-play 2013 Malibu BCM. Your vehicle won’t know the difference, and all its original functions and security settings will be preserved.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Erratic or non-working power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior dome lights or exterior lamps staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The security system acting up, causing intermittent no-start conditions.
- ✔ False warnings on the instrument cluster (e.g., “Service Theft System”).
- ✔ Communication loss codes (U-codes) when scanned with a diagnostic tool.
- ✔ Wipers or radio turning on and off by themselves.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Malibu That Wouldn’t Cooperate
I remember a 2013 Malibu that came into the shop with a classic BCM failure story. The owner complained of the radio randomly shutting off and the driver’s side power window having a mind of its own. Another shop had already replaced the window motor and the radio, wasting hundreds of dollars. When I connected my scan tool, I couldn’t communicate with the BCM. That’s the tell-tale sign. The internal communication processor had failed. We performed a cloning service just like this one, and the new module restored all functions instantly. It’s a reminder that troubleshooting the central controller first can save a lot of time and money.
Our Simple, Mail-In Cloning Process
Getting your car back to normal is easy. After you place your order, we will contact you with clear, simple instructions for shipping your original BCM to our facility. Once we receive it, our expert technicians will perform a full data transfer to the replacement module. We then ship the plug-and-play BCM back to you, typically within 24-48 hours, and provide you with tracking information. It’s the most efficient way to get a perfectly matched 2013 Malibu BCM without leaving your home.
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: In most 2013 Malibu models, the BCM is located behind the driver’s side kick panel, near the fuse box. Consult a service manual for your specific vehicle if you’re unsure.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Once unplugged, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Seat the programmed BCM onto the mounting bracket and securely plug in all the 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, etc.—to confirm the repair was successful.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module and programming service are compatible with units bearing part numbers 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, and 13589325. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles:
- 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
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our cloning makes this a plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. Please be aware of the following:
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag 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 BCM.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be necessary to ensure correct brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for vehicle-specific procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a ‘cloning’ service?
Cloning is the process of reading the critical, vehicle-specific data (like VIN, mileage, key codes, and optional features) from your original BCM and writing it directly onto the replacement module. This makes the new module an exact digital copy of the old one, allowing it to work in your car without any additional programming.
Do I need to take my car to a dealer after installation?
No! Our cloning service is designed to completely eliminate the need for dealership programming, saving you significant time and money. The module arrives ready to install and function.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM isn’t communicating with the vehicle, we can still extract the necessary data directly from the board’s memory chip. Please contact us before ordering if your module is severely damaged by water or fire.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is no core charge. You are free to keep your original module after sending it to us for the data transfer.
Where is the BCM located on my 2013 Malibu?
On the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, the BCM is typically found behind the driver’s side kick panel, which is the plastic trim panel to the left of your pedals.