Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical Stability
Are you chasing down bizarre electrical issues in your 2013 Chevrolet Volt? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power accessories, or a car that refuses to start can often be traced back to one central component: the Body Control Module (BCM). As an automotive diagnostics expert with over two decades in the field, I’ve seen how a failing BCM can turn a reliable vehicle into a source of constant frustration. It acts as the central hub for your car’s body electronics, and when it fails, chaos ensues.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a comprehensive solution. We offer a professional cloning service for your 2013 Volt BCM. This means we transfer all the critical, vehicle-specific data—like key programming and security information—from your original module to this replacement unit. The result? A BCM that is truly plug-and-play, eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming dealership programming. You simply send us your old module, and we send you back a fully configured unit ready for installation.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2013 Volt that came into my shop with a laundry list of complaints from the owner. The radio would turn on by itself, the driver’s side window wouldn’t respond, and occasionally the car wouldn’t recognize the key fob. The customer had already replaced the battery and checked fuses. After hooking up my scanner, I saw a dozen communication error codes (U-codes) pointing to a network problem. Instead of a complex wiring issue, experience told me to look at the network’s command center—the BCM. By monitoring data streams, we confirmed the BCM was erratically dropping communication. A cloned BCM from a service like this one solved every single issue in one go, saving the customer hundreds in diagnostic time and dealer programming fees.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a faulty Body Control Module could be the culprit. A failing 2013 Volt BCM often triggers communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), such as U0100, U0140, or other U-series codes.
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ Security system faults or the anti-theft light staying on.
- ✔ Inaccurate or dead gauges on the instrument cluster.
- ✔ The vehicle fails to start, but the battery and starter are good.
- ✔ Horn, wipers, or turn signals operating erratically or not at all.
- ✔ Key fob not being recognized by the vehicle.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Our cloning service makes the physical replacement simple. Once you receive the programmed module from us, follow these general steps. For your specific 2013 Volt, the BCM is located in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s 12V battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the BCM: Access the BCM in its location within the RH engine compartment. You may need to remove a cover or panel for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. Note their orientation. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in place of the old one and securely fasten it.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the electrical connectors firmly into the new BCM. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Post-Install Checks: Start the vehicle and verify that the original issues are resolved. Check all body electronics. Note that some vehicles may require the additional procedures listed below.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service handles the primary programming, some vehicle systems may need to be re-synced after installation.
- Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated 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: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may be needed to ensure correct brake light operation and to keep the traction control system happy.
Disclaimer: Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician for procedures specific to your vehicle.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM is a direct-fit replacement for several GM vehicles and part numbers. Please verify your part number is on this list. Our cloning service ensures it will work correctly for your specific vehicle’s configuration.
Replaces Part Numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13580697, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, 13589325
Fits Models Including:
- Chevrolet Volt: 2013 (ID 13580697, 13586273)
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2013-2016
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2013-2017
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2013
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2013-2014
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Gasoline)
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2014
- Buick Encore: 2013-2014
- Buick Regal: 2013
- Buick Verano: 2013-2017
- Cadillac SRX: 2013
- GMC Terrain: 2013-2017
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cloning service work?
After you place your order, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, we extract the vehicle-specific data and flash it onto the replacement module. We then ship the ready-to-install BCM back to you.
Do I need to send my keys?
No, you do not need to send your keys. All the necessary security and key fob information is stored within your original BCM, and we transfer it directly to the new unit.
Is this a plug-and-play solution?
Yes, for over 95% of installations. Because we clone your original data, the need for dealer programming is eliminated. In some rare cases, a post-install procedure like an airbag system sync may be required if a warning light appears.
What is your policy on core charges?
There is no core charge! You can keep your original, non-functional module. Our price is for the replacement BCM and the programming service combined.
How do I know if my BCM is the problem?
While the symptoms listed above are strong indicators, a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic with a professional scan tool is the best way to confirm a BCM failure. Look for multiple communication error codes (U-codes).
Will this fix my check engine light?
A BCM typically controls body electronics, not engine functions. If your primary issue is a check engine light with engine-related codes (P-codes), you may need to diagnose the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or the specific sensor triggering the code.