Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical Stability and Functionality
Are you dealing with a cascade of bizarre electrical problems in your vehicle? Flickering dashboard lights, power windows with a mind of their own, a horn that won’t stop, or a security system that prevents your car from starting are all classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). 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 daily frustration. It acts as the central hub for your car’s comfort and convenience features, and when it fails, chaos ensues.
This isn’t just a part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We provide a professionally prepared BCM that is precisely programmed by cloning the data from your original module. This critical service bypasses the need for expensive dealership visits and complex programming tools. You simply send us your old BCM, we transfer all the essential vehicle-specific data to this replacement unit, and ship it back to you, ready for installation. It’s the most reliable and cost-effective way to get your car back to normal.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Equinox
A customer brought in a 2012 Equinox with a truly maddening issue. The radio would turn on and off randomly, the interior dome lights would flicker while driving, and occasionally, the key fob wouldn’t work. They had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After running diagnostics, I found no consistent communication error codes, just a history of intermittent faults. Drawing on experience, I suspected the BCM. We temporarily swapped in a known-good module, and the problems vanished. The original BCM had internal solder joint failures that would only act up with temperature changes and vibration—a classic ghost in the machine scenario solved by a direct BCM replacement.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of BCM Failure?
A failing BCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your Body Control Module is the likely culprit. A common diagnostic trouble code (DTC) associated with these issues is U0140 – Lost Communication With Body Control Module.
- ✔ Unpredictable behavior from power windows, locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not working at all.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security system engaging incorrectly, leading to a no-start condition.
- ✔ The horn blaring without input or the panic alarm activating randomly.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights illuminating for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Key fobs that stop working or function intermittently.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Once you receive your pre-programmed module from us, the physical installation is straightforward. The key is that all the complex software work has already been done. Here is a general guide to replacing your 2013 Spark BCM or the BCM in other compatible models.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure the system is fully discharged.
- Locate the BCM: The location varies by model. For the 2013 Spark, it’s typically found at the left lower A-pillar. For other models, it could be under the dash or in a kick panel (refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the exact location).
- 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, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Reconnect all the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and test all the functions controlled by the BCM—lights, locks, windows, horn, etc.—to confirm the repair was successful.
Important Post-Installation Notes
In some cases, additional synchronization or relearn procedures may be necessary after installation. This is normal and depends on your specific vehicle’s systems.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is on after installation, 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 proper brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician for procedures specific to your make and model.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM, part number 13580696, is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 13583542, 123589093, 13588446, and 13584692. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles:
- Buick LaCrosse: 2012 (ID 13580696), 2013
- Buick Regal: 2012
- Buick Verano: 2012
- Cadillac SRX: 2012 (ID 13580696)
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2012-2013, 2014 (Coupe)
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2012
- Chevrolet Spark: 2013
- Chevrolet Volt: 2012
- GMC Terrain: 2012
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
It’s simple. After you purchase, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to our facility. Once we receive it, we extract the vehicle-specific data and flash it onto the replacement module. We then ship the plug-and-play replacement back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Why do I need to send my original BCM?
Your original BCM contains critical information unique to your vehicle, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), security keys, and settings for various options. Cloning this data ensures the replacement module works seamlessly with your car’s other computers, avoiding conflicts and the need for dealership programming.
Is there a core charge?
No. There is no core charge for this part. You can keep your original module after you receive the programmed replacement from us.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM is failing, the memory chip containing the essential data is still readable. Please contact us before purchasing if your module is severely damaged (e.g., by water or fire) or if a technician has confirmed it is non-communicative.
Will I need a special tool for the airbag light?
Possibly. If the airbag light comes on after installation, the system needs to be re-synced. This requires a professional-grade diagnostic scan tool capable of performing the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ function. Many independent repair shops have this capability.