Tired of Your Car’s Bizarre Electrical Gremlins?
Is your Chevrolet, Buick, or GMC acting possessed? Flickering lights, power windows with a mind of their own, a security system that won’t cooperate, or a car that refuses to start can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central nervous system for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated issues. This isn’t just an annoyance; it can affect vehicle security and safety systems. This service provides a reliable, pre-programmed 2013 Volt BCM, getting you back on the road without the exorbitant costs and scheduling hassles of a dealership visit.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2013 Chevy Cruze that came into my shop with a laundry list of complaints from the owner. The dome lights would stay on, the radio would randomly shut off, and worst of all, the car would intermittently fail to crank. The customer had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I found a slew of ‘U’ codes, indicating lost communication with multiple modules. The common thread? They all routed through the BCM. A failing BCM doesn’t always die completely; it often fails intermittently, making it a nightmare to diagnose. Our cloning service bypasses that diagnostic headache by providing a module that’s a perfect electronic match for your vehicle, solving the problem at its source.
How Our Simple Mail-In Programming Service Works
Forget about towing your car to a dealer and waiting for days. Our service is designed to be straightforward and efficient. After you purchase this module, we will contact you with simple instructions to ship your original BCM to our facility. Once we receive it, our expert technicians will transfer all the critical data—including VIN, mileage, and key programming—to this replacement unit. This cloning process makes the new module a true plug-and-play solution. We then ship the fully programmed BCM back to you, typically within 24-48 hours. It arrives ready for installation, with no further programming required.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or failing to turn on.
- ✔ The vehicle’s anti-theft or security system malfunctioning, causing no-start conditions.
- ✔ The horn honking unexpectedly or the alarm sounding randomly.
- ✔ Inaccurate or non-functional instrument panel gauges.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to lost communication, such as U0140, U0155, or other ‘U’ codes.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge before starting work.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: On the 2013 Volt, the BCM is located in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment. For other models, its location varies (e.g., under the dash, in the kick panel). Refer to your service manual for the exact position.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all electrical connectors from the original BCM. They have locking tabs that must be depressed. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your newly programmed BCM in the same location and securely fasten it. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- ✔ Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm proper operation.
Important Post-Installation Notes
While our goal is a 100% plug-and-play experience, some GM vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure after BCM replacement. If you see an airbag warning light, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. Additionally, a Brake Pedal Position sensor relearn might be necessary on some models to ensure proper brake light and stability control function. Always consult a factory service manual for vehicle-specific requirements.
Verified Compatibility for Your GM Vehicle
This BCM is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles and interchanges with the following part numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, and 13589325.
It is confirmed to fit the following models:
- 2013-2017 Chevrolet Equinox / GMC Terrain
- 2013-2016 Chevrolet Cruze (incl. Limited models)
- 2013 Chevrolet Volt (ID 13580697 or 13586273)
- 2013-2014 Buick Encore
- 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2013 Buick Regal
- 2013 Cadillac SRX
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Spark (gasoline models)
- 2013-2014 Chevrolet Orlando
- 2013-2017 Buick Verano
- 2013-2014 Chevrolet Trax
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send my original BCM to you?
Yes. This is a cloning service. We need your original module to extract the vehicle-specific programming. This ensures the replacement BCM works perfectly with your existing keys and systems without needing a trip to the dealer.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. After we transfer the data, you can keep your original module.
What if I install it and still have problems?
Our programming is guaranteed. If issues persist, it’s likely the fault lies elsewhere in the vehicle, such as a wiring problem or another failing module. The BCM is often misdiagnosed, so ensure a proper diagnosis has been performed.
How long does the programming service take?
We pride ourselves on a fast turnaround. Once we receive your module, the programming and return shipping process is typically completed within one to two business days. We will send you tracking information as soon as it ships.
Will I need special tools for the installation?
For most models, you will only need basic hand tools (like a socket set or screwdriver) to access and replace the module. However, as noted, a professional scan tool may be required for post-installation procedures like an airbag system sync if the warning light appears.