Is Your Chevy Malibu Experiencing Strange Electrical Problems?
If your 2014-2016 Chevrolet Malibu is acting possessed, with flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a dead instrument cluster, or even a no-start condition, the culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s body electronics, managing everything from your interior lights and door locks to the security system. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating issues that can be difficult to diagnose.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We once had a 2015 Malibu come into the shop with an intermittent no-start condition. The owner had already replaced the battery and the starter, but the problem persisted. The car would crank but not fire, and the security light on the dash would flash erratically. After hours of chasing wires, we focused on the BCM. By monitoring data streams, we saw the BCM was failing to recognize the correctly coded key. Instead of a costly new module and a trip to the dealer for programming, we used a cloned BCM. The car started on the first try and the customer saved hundreds. This highlights how a faulty BCM can mimic other, more common failures.
Why a Programmed 2014-2016 Malibu Body Control Module is the Smart Solution
Replacing a BCM isn’t as simple as swapping out the old part for a new one. A new module from the dealership is a blank slate; it must be professionally programmed to your car’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and equipped options. This process requires expensive, specialized tools and often results in a hefty bill for parts and labor. Our service eliminates that entire headache. We offer a simple, cost-effective solution: a replacement 2014-2016 Malibu Body Control Module that is pre-programmed using the data from your original unit.
Common Symptoms of a Failing BCM
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Erratic behavior from the instrument cluster gauges or warning lights.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on, flickering, or not working at all.
- ✔ The vehicle’s security system preventing the car from starting.
- ✔ Radio or infotainment system malfunctions.
- ✔ A/C and climate control system not responding to commands.
- ✔ Communication errors with other vehicle modules (DTC U-codes).
Our Simple Mail-In Cloning Service
Our process is designed to be straightforward and get you back on the road quickly. Here’s how it works:
- Place Your Order: Purchase this BCM listing. Please ensure your contact information is up-to-date.
- We Contact You: We will reach out with clear instructions on how to remove and where to ship your original BCM.
- Ship Your Original Module: You send us your faulty BCM.
- We Transfer the Data: Upon arrival, our technicians will professionally extract the critical programming from your original module and transfer it to this replacement unit. This ensures all your vehicle’s settings, key data, and options are perfectly matched.
- Receive Your Plug-and-Play BCM: We ship the programmed replacement module back to you. Installation is as simple as plugging it in. No dealer visit, no extra programming fees.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our goal is a 100% plug-and-play experience, certain vehicle systems may require a recalibration or sync procedure after the BCM is reinstalled. This is a normal part of the vehicle’s security and safety architecture.
- Airbag System Sync: If your airbag warning light is illuminated after installation, a ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure is needed. This syncs the new BCM with the airbag module and can be performed with a professional-grade scan tool.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: In some cases, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary to ensure proper brake light and traction control functionality.
Always consult a factory service manual or a qualified technician if you are unsure about any post-installation steps.
Guaranteed Fitment
This 2014-2016 Malibu Body Control Module is a direct replacement for the following part numbers and models. Please verify your part number or vehicle fitment before ordering.
Part Numbers: 13580698, 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593775, 13593776, 13594564
Compatible Vehicles:
- 2014-2015 Buick LaCrosse
- 2016 Buick LaCrosse (ID 13580698 or 13594564)
- 2014-2017 Buick Regal
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Camaro
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2016 Chevrolet Malibu (VIN 1, Limited)
- 2014-2016 Chevrolet Spark (EV)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Volt
- 2014-2016 Cadillac ELR
- 2014-2016 Cadillac SRX
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Body Control Module (BCM) do?
The BCM acts as the main computer for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features. It controls power windows, locks, lights, wipers, the security system, and many other electronic functions not related to the engine.
How does the mail-in programming service work?
After you place your order, you will ship your original BCM to us. We then use specialized equipment to read the unique data from your module and write it onto the replacement unit. This ‘cloning’ process makes the replacement module a perfect match for your car.
Is this a true plug-and-play solution?
Yes, in over 99% of cases. Because we transfer all the data from your original module, the vehicle will recognize the replacement as its own, requiring no further programming. In rare instances, a simple relearn procedure for the airbag or brake pedal sensor may be needed, as noted above.
How long does the entire process take?
We typically program and ship your replacement module within 1-2 business days of receiving your original unit. The total time will depend on shipping speeds to and from our facility.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or ‘fried’?
Even in cases of severe damage (e.g., water intrusion or electrical shorts), our technicians can often recover the necessary data. Please contact us before ordering if you believe your module is heavily damaged.