Are you tired of chasing electrical gremlins in your Chevrolet Malibu? Intermittent power windows, flickering lights, a security system that acts up, or a car that refuses to start can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, a faulty BCM can cause widespread and frustrating issues. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect your car’s security and reliability.
We offer a straightforward and cost-effective solution. This is a replacement Body Control Module, part number 13593775, that comes pre-programmed with your vehicle’s specific data. Our process is simple: after your purchase, you’ll ship your original BCM to us. We then transfer all the critical information—like key fob data, security settings, and vehicle options—to this replacement unit. This cloning service makes the new module a true plug-and-play part, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Haunted Malibu
A customer brought in a 2015 Malibu with a list of bizarre symptoms. The radio would turn on by itself, the driver’s side window worked only when it wanted to, and occasionally, the car wouldn’t start, just a click from the starter. They had already replaced the battery with no luck. After connecting my scan tool, I saw a flood of U-codes (U0140, U0155), indicating a loss of communication between various modules. In my 20+ years of experience, these network-wide communication faults almost always lead back to the BCM. We performed this exact cloning service, and the customer had their reliable car back the next day—no more electrical ghosts.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM could be the root cause. A failing module can disrupt communication across the vehicle’s network, leading to a variety of unpredictable problems.
- ✔ Inconsistent or non-working power windows, door locks, or interior lights.
- ✔ The security system light stays on or the alarm triggers randomly.
- ✔ The key fob stops working or works intermittently.
- ✔ The engine won’t crank or start, even with a good battery and starter.
- ✔ Warning lights for ABS, Airbags, or Traction Control appear on the dash.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0100, U0140, or other U-series codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Your BCM Swap
Installing your programmed BCM is a manageable task for a DIY enthusiast. For the 2014-2016 Malibu, the BCM is typically located in the driver’s side kick panel.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electronic components.
- Locate the BCM: Remove the driver’s side kick panel (the plastic trim piece by your left foot) to access the module.
- 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, programmed BCM in the same location and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Test Functions: Start the vehicle and test all body functions: lights, locks, windows, radio, and wipers to confirm the repair.
Important Post-Installation Note: In some cases, additional steps may be needed. If the airbag light is on, a professional scan tool is required to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. Similarly, a ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn’ might be necessary for proper brake light and traction control operation. Always consult a service manual for your specific vehicle if you are unsure.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 13593775 and is interchangeable with the following part numbers: 13580698, 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593776, and 13594564. It is guaranteed to fit the following models:
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Malibu (LH kick panel)
- 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited (VIN 1, 4th digit) (LH kick panel)
- 2014-2015 Buick LaCrosse (LH kick panel)
- 2016 Buick LaCrosse (ID 13580698 or 13594564) (LH kick panel)
- 2014-2017 Buick Regal (LH dash)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Volt (RH engine compartment)
- 2014-2016 Cadillac ELR (RH cowl / RH engine compartment)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Camaro (RH dash)
- 2014-2016 Cadillac SRX (LH dash)
- 2014-2016 Chevrolet Spark EV (electric model) (left lower a-pillar)
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 extract the vehicle-specific data and flash it onto the replacement module. We ship the programmed module back to you, ready for installation.
Is this a plug-and-play solution?
Yes, because we clone the data from your original unit, this becomes a plug-and-play part. This process eliminates the need for expensive programming by a dealer.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or missing?
In most cases, we can still retrieve data from a non-communicating module. If your module is physically destroyed or lost, please contact us before ordering to discuss options.
Do I need to return my old BCM as a core?
No, there is no core charge. We only need your original module temporarily for the data cloning service. You can keep it afterward.
How long does the whole process take?
We typically program and ship your replacement module within 1-2 business days of receiving your original unit. The total time depends on shipping transit times.