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Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical System with a Pre-Programmed BCM
If your 2014-2016 Chevrolet Malibu is experiencing a host of bizarre electrical issues—from flickering lights and erratic gauges to power windows that have a mind of their own—a failing Body Control Module (BCM) is often the culprit. The BCM acts as the central hub for your car’s body electronics, and when it fails, it can cause widespread, frustrating problems. Dealerships often charge a premium for a new module plus expensive programming fees. We offer a simpler, more affordable solution: a fully programmed replacement Malibu Body Control Module that’s ready for installation right out of the box.
Our unique service makes this complex repair straightforward. After your purchase, we’ll provide instructions for you to send us your original BCM. Our expert technicians will then transfer all the critical data—including your vehicle’s VIN, security information, and specific options—to a replacement unit. This cloning process ensures seamless integration with your car’s other systems, eliminating the need for a trip to the dealer for on-car programming. We ship the ready-to-install module back to you, simplifying the repair and getting you back on the road quickly.
Common Signs of a Failing BCM
A faulty BCM can manifest in numerous ways. In my 20+ years of experience, I’ve seen these modules cause some of the most confusing diagnostic headaches. If you’re noticing any of the following, your BCM may be the root cause:
- ✔ Power windows, locks, or mirrors operating intermittently or not at all.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights flickering, staying on, or not turning on.
- ✔ The security system acting up, causing no-start conditions or false alarms.
- ✔ Instrument cluster gauges behaving erratically or going dark.
- ✔ The radio or infotainment system malfunctioning.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module).
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2015 Malibu with a complaint that was all over the map. The horn would honk randomly, the driver’s side window wouldn’t go down, and the dash lights would flicker while driving. They had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. A scan showed a dozen intermittent communication codes. Instead of chasing each individual problem, we focused on the common link: the BCM. By monitoring data streams, we saw the BCM was dropping offline sporadically. This confirmed our suspicion. A replacement Malibu Body Control Module, cloned from their original, resolved all the issues at once, saving the customer hundreds in diagnostic time and parts.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your programmed BCM is a manageable task for a DIY enthusiast. On most 2014-2016 Malibus, the BCM is located in the driver’s side LH kick panel.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Locate the BCM: Remove the driver’s side kick panel (the plastic trim piece by the driver’s left foot) to access the module. It’s typically a black plastic box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug all the wiring harnesses from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be pressed or lifted. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed BCM in the same location. Securely plug in all the electrical connectors, making sure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Test and Verify: Start the vehicle and test all the functions controlled by the BCM: lights, locks, windows, horn, and wipers. Check the dashboard for any warning lights.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service makes this a near plug-and-play repair, some GM vehicles may require a simple relearn procedure after the new module is installed. This is normal and ensures all systems communicate correctly.
- ✔ Airbag System Sync: If the airbag warning light is illuminated 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 new BCM. This is only necessary if the light appears.
- ✔ Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On some models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be required to ensure the brake lights and traction control system function properly.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified professional if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM, part number 13593775, is a direct replacement for several part numbers and fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or vehicle model from the list below to ensure proper fitment.
Interchangeable Part Numbers: 13580698, 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593775, 13593776, 13594564
Compatible Models:
- 2014-2015 Buick LaCrosse (LH kick panel)
- 2016 Buick LaCrosse (LH kick panel, ID 13580698 or 13594564)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Malibu (LH kick panel)
- 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited (VIN 1, LH kick panel)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Volt (RH engine compartment)
- 2014-2016 Cadillac ELR (RH cowl / RH engine compartment)
- 2014-2017 Buick Regal (LH dash)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Camaro (RH dash)
- 2014-2016 Cadillac SRX (LH dash)
- 2014-2016 Chevrolet Spark EV (left lower a-pillar)
Frequently Asked Questions About Our BCM Service
How does the programming service work?
It’s simple. After you place your order, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians extract the vehicle-specific data and flash it onto the replacement module. We then ship the ready-to-install Malibu Body Control Module back to you, typically within 1-2 business days of receiving your original part.
Do I need to send my original BCM? What if it’s damaged?
Yes, sending your original BCM is required for our cloning service. This is how we ensure the replacement is a perfect match for your car’s configuration. In most cases, even if the BCM is failing electronically, we can still retrieve the necessary data. If your module is severely physically damaged (e.g., broken, burned), please contact us before ordering.
Is this a plug-and-play solution?
For over 95% of vehicles, yes. Because we transfer your car’s exact data, the module is recognized by the vehicle upon installation, requiring no further programming. In rare cases, as noted above, a minor relearn procedure like an airbag sync may be needed, which can be done with a professional scan tool.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This part will fix issues that are directly caused by a faulty BCM. It’s crucial to properly diagnose the problem before ordering. The BCM controls many functions, so if you’re experiencing multiple, unrelated electrical failures, the BCM is a strong suspect. This will not fix issues related to faulty wiring, sensors, or other modules.
Is there a core charge?
No, there is no core charge for this service. You can keep your original module after we have completed the programming service on the replacement unit.