Are you battling bizarre electrical problems in your Chevrolet Volt or another compatible GM vehicle? Flickering lights, unresponsive power windows, random warning chimes, or a car that refuses to start can often be traced back to one component: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM acts as the central nervous system for your car’s electronics, and when it malfunctions, it can cause widespread, frustrating issues. Dealerships often quote astronomical prices for a replacement and programming. Our service offers a smarter, more affordable solution.
This is a comprehensive cloning service for a BCM compatible with part number 13582688 and many others. Instead of sending you a blank module that requires expensive dealer tools, we transfer the critical data from your original BCM to this replacement unit. This makes the installation process as close to plug-and-play as possible, preserving your vehicle’s specific settings and security information, including the VIN and key data.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2013 Chevy Volt with a laundry list of complaints that seemed unrelated. The radio would turn off randomly, the driver’s side window worked intermittently, and the passive entry system was unreliable. No single fuse or wire seemed to be the culprit. After connecting my scan tool, I noticed several U-codes (communication errors) between various modules. This pointed directly to the BCM being the faulty ‘switchboard operator.’ Instead of a costly new module from the dealer, we used our cloning service. We transferred the data from his failing BCM to our replacement unit. After a 20-minute install, every single electrical gremlin was gone. It’s a perfect example of how this service provides a precise, effective fix without the dealership price tag.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing BCM can be tricky to diagnose, but here are some of the most common red flags I’ve seen in my 20+ years of experience:
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional interior and exterior lights.
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors behaving unpredictably.
- ✔ The security system acting up or preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Dashboard warning lights appearing and disappearing without reason.
- ✔ Communication failure codes (U-codes) stored in the diagnostic system.
- ✔ Wipers or horn activating on their own or not working at all.
How Our Simple Cloning Service Works
Our goal is to make this repair as seamless as possible. After you place your order, we will contact you with clear, step-by-step 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 your newly programmed module back to you, typically within 24-48 hours. You’ll receive tracking information the moment it’s on its way.
A Straightforward Guide to Your 2013 Volt BCM Installation
Installing your programmed BCM is a manageable task for a DIY enthusiast or any professional mechanic. For the 2013 Volt, the BCM is located in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electronic components.
- Locate the BCM: On your 2013 Volt, find the BCM in the engine bay on the passenger side. For other models, its location may vary (e.g., under the dash, in a kick panel).
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Most have a locking tab that needs to be pressed or lifted. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Seat the replacement BCM into the mounting bracket and tighten the bolts. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Battery & Test: Reattach the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition on and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, etc.—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our cloning service makes this a plug-and-play repair, some GM vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure for specific systems to communicate with the ‘new’ BCM.
- Airbag System Sync: If your 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 recalibration might be necessary to ensure proper brake light and traction control operation.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM cloning service is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. Please match your part number from the list below. This part is a direct replacement for part numbers: 13579004, 13580198, 13582396, 13583450, 13586856, 13582688, 13586278, 13501737, 13501739, 13577924, 13580773, and 13583451.
- Buick LaCrosse: 2011, 2012
- Buick Regal: 2011
- Cadillac SRX: 2011, 2012
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2011 (Convertible)
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2012
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2011
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2012
- Chevrolet Volt: 2011, 2013
- GMC Terrain: 2011
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the mail-in cloning service work?
After you purchase, we’ll email you a shipping label and instructions. You send us your original BCM. We then copy all the essential data (VIN, key codes, options) to the replacement module and ship it back to you, ready for installation.
Will I need a dealer to program this module?
No. The entire point of our service is to bypass the need for dealer programming. Because we clone your original data, the vehicle will recognize the module as its own, saving you time and money.
What if my original BCM is not communicating at all?
In many cases, even if the BCM has failed and won’t communicate with the vehicle, we can still extract the necessary data directly from the board’s memory chip. Contact us with your specific issue if you have concerns.
How long does the entire process take?
Once we receive your module, our service typically takes 1-2 business days. The total time will depend on shipping speeds to and from our facility. We always ship the programmed module back promptly with tracking.
Is there a core charge or do I need to return my old part?
There is absolutely no core charge. We need your original module to perform the data transfer service, but you are welcome to keep it afterward if you wish.