Are you dealing with baffling electrical issues in your GM vehicle? One moment the power windows work, the next they don’t. Maybe the security light is flashing, or the interior lights have a mind of their own. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these exact problems hundreds of times, and the culprit is often a failing Body Control Module (BCM). It’s the central nervous system for your car’s comfort and convenience features, and when it goes bad, it can create a cascade of frustrating, seemingly unrelated symptoms.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We offer a professionally programmed Body Control Module compatible with part number 13580698 and many others. The biggest headache with BCM replacement is the expensive and complicated programming required at a dealership. Our service eliminates that entirely. By cloning the data from your original BCM directly onto this replacement unit, we deliver a true plug-and-play module. You get your vehicle back to normal without the dealer’s high costs and scheduling delays.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 2015 Chevy Malibu that came into the shop with a list of strange complaints from the owner: the radio would turn off randomly, the driver’s side power lock was inoperative, and the dreaded ‘Service Airbag’ light was on. The initial scan showed a flurry of communication codes, specifically a U0140 – Lost Communication With Body Control Module. While other shops might start chasing wires for hours, experience pointed me straight to the BCM. A faulty BCM can disrupt the entire CAN bus network, causing other modules to report errors. We confirmed the BCM was the source of the network failure. A cloned module like this one resolved all issues in under an hour, saving the customer significant diagnostic time and money.
Common Signs of a Failing GM Body Control Module
If your vehicle is exhibiting these symptoms, a faulty BCM is the likely cause. This programmed 2014-2016 Spark BCM is the direct solution.
- ✔ Erratic or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Interior or exterior lights staying on or not working at all.
- ✔ The horn sounding unexpectedly or not working when pressed.
- ✔ Intermittent issues with the radio or infotainment system.
- ✔ A persistent anti-theft or security light on the dashboard.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to lost communication, such as U0140, U0155, or U0164.
- ✔ The engine won’t crank or start due to a security system fault.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your pre-programmed BCM is designed to be a direct swap. Here’s a general guide to get you started:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before starting work.
- Locate the BCM: On the 2014-2016 Spark EV, the BCM is typically found at the base of the left lower A-pillar. For other models, its location varies (e.g., LH kick panel in a LaCrosse, RH dash in a Camaro). Consult a service manual for your specific vehicle if you’re unsure.
- 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: Reattach the negative battery terminal. Your vehicle’s essential data is already on the module, so no further programming is needed for it to function.
Post-Installation Note: In some cases, specific relearn procedures may be necessary. For example, if the airbag light is on, a professional scan tool is needed to perform the ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ procedure. Similarly, a ‘Brake Pedal Position Relearn’ might be required for proper brake light and traction control operation. Always refer to a factory service manual for vehicle-specific requirements.
Verified Fitment for These GM Models
This module is a direct replacement for part number 13580698 and other interchangeable numbers listed below. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles and options:
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2016 (Body Control, left lower a-pillar, electric model EV)
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2014-2015 (Body Control, RH dash)
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2014-2015 (Body Control, LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Malibu Limited: 2016 (Body Control, VIN 1, LH kick panel)
- Chevrolet Volt: 2014-2015 (Body Control, RH engine compartment)
- Buick LaCrosse: 2014-2016 (Body Control, LH kick panel)
- Buick Regal: 2014-2017 (Body Control, LH dash)
- Cadillac ELR: 2014-2016 (Body Control, RH cowl / Communication, RH engine compartment)
- Cadillac SRX: 2014-2016 (Body Control, LH dash)
Compatible Part Numbers: 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593775, 13593776, 13594564
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the programming service work?
After you purchase, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to our facility. Once we receive it, our technicians will extract the vehicle-specific data and transfer it to the replacement module. We then ship the ready-to-install BCM back to you, typically within 1-2 business days.
Do I need to send my keys with the module?
No, you do not need to send your keys. Our cloning process transfers all the necessary security information from your old BCM to the new one, so your existing keys will work perfectly upon installation.
Is this really plug-and-play?
Yes. Because we clone your original data, the replacement module is plug-and-play. This avoids the need for a trip to the dealer for expensive programming with a Tech 2 or MDI scan tool.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, even if the BCM is failing, we can still extract the necessary data. If your module has suffered extreme physical damage (fire, flood, etc.), please contact us before ordering to discuss options.
Is there a core charge for this 2014-2016 Spark BCM?
No, there is no core charge. We only need your original module for the data transfer service. You can keep your original module after the service is complete.
Will I need to perform any other procedures after installation?
Possibly. Depending on your specific vehicle, you may need to perform a Brake Pedal Position Relearn. If the airbag light appears, a professional scan tool is required to sync the airbag system (SDM) with the new BCM. These are standard procedures and not required for every installation.