Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Plug-and-Play Solution
Are you dealing with baffling electrical issues in your Buick LaCrosse, Chevy Malibu, or other compatible GM vehicle? Symptoms like flickering lights, unresponsive power windows and locks, or a security system that prevents the car from starting are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your car’s body electronics, when the BCM falters, it can create a cascade of frustrating and unpredictable problems. Dealerships often quote high prices for a new module plus mandatory, expensive programming. We offer a simpler, more affordable path forward.
This is a replacement BCM that comes fully programmed using the data from your original module. The process is straightforward: after your purchase, we’ll provide instructions for you to send us your existing BCM. Our technicians will then extract the unique vehicle-specific data—including VIN, key information, and factory options—and flash it onto this replacement unit. We then ship it back to you, ready for installation. This cloning service makes the replacement a direct-fit, plug-and-play job, eliminating the need for a trip to the dealer for programming.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2015 Chevy Malibu that came into my shop with the most erratic symptoms I’d seen in a while. The customer complained that sometimes the radio would turn off, the interior lights would pulse, and occasionally, the car just wouldn’t start. They had already replaced the battery and checked the alternator. We scanned for codes and found a slew of communication errors (U-codes) pointing to multiple modules. After hours of tracing wires and checking grounds, we isolated the issue to the BCM. It was intermittently failing, sending corrupt data across the CAN bus network and making other modules act up. By providing a programmed BCM, we solved all the ‘ghost’ problems at once, saving the customer from replacing other perfectly good components.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These BCM Failure Signs?
- ✔ Power windows, door locks, or mirrors operate erratically or not at all.
- ✔ The anti-theft or security light is illuminated, and the engine won’t crank.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flicker, stay on, or won’t turn on.
- ✔ The horn honks randomly or doesn’t work when pressed.
- ✔ Wipers activate on their own or won’t respond to the switch.
- ✔ Multiple unrelated warning lights appear on the dashboard.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss are present (e.g., U0100, U0140, U0155).
Your Step-by-Step BCM Replacement Guide
Replacing the BCM is a manageable task for a DIY enthusiast. The exact location varies by model (see fitment list), but the general process is similar. Always disconnect the battery before starting.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes for the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the BCM: On a 2014-2016 LaCrosse, the BCM is typically found behind the driver’s side (LH) kick panel. For other models, refer to the fitment list below for its location. You may need to remove trim panels to gain access.
- 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 newly programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect and Test: Reinstall any trim panels you removed. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, wipers, etc.—to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our programming service makes this a plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a final handshake to fully sync with the new BCM. Please be aware of the following:
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning 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 and is only necessary if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn might be required to ensure your brake lights and stability control systems function correctly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 13580698, 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593775, 13593776, and 13594564. It is guaranteed to fit the following models:
- 2014-2015 Buick LaCrosse: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- 2016 Buick LaCrosse: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), ID 13580698 or 13594564
- 2014-2017 Buick Regal: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Malibu: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- 2016 Chevrolet Malibu: Body Control (BCM); VIN 1 (4th digit, Limited), (LH kick panel)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Volt: Body Control (BCM); (RH engine compartment)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Camaro: Body Control (BCM); (RH dash)
- 2014-2016 Cadillac SRX: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- 2014-2016 Cadillac ELR: Body Control (BCM); (RH cowl)
- 2016 Cadillac ELR: Communication; (RH engine compartment)
- 2014-2016 Chevrolet Spark: Body Control (BCM); (left lower a-pillar), electric model (EV)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
After you place your order, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. We then transfer its data to the replacement BCM and mail it back to you, ready to install.
Is this truly plug-and-play?
Yes. Because we clone the data from your original module, the replacement BCM will have the correct VIN, mileage, and options for your specific vehicle, avoiding the need for dealer programming.
Do I need to return my old BCM as a core?
No, there is no core charge for this item. After we have performed the programming service, you can keep your original module.
What if my airbag light comes on after installation?
This is a possibility. It means the new BCM needs to be synced with the airbag module (SDM). This requires a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key’ procedure with a professional-grade scan tool.
How long does the whole process take?
Once we receive your module, our programming service typically takes 1-2 business days. We will then ship the replacement BCM back to you. Total turnaround time will depend on shipping speeds.