Tired of Chasing Electrical Gremlins in Your GM Vehicle?
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen it all. A customer comes in with a car that seems possessed: the horn honks randomly, power windows have a mind of their own, the security light won’t turn off, or worse, the car refuses to start. These aren’t separate problems; they’re often symptoms of one failing component: the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is the central command center for your vehicle’s comfort and convenience features. When it fails, it creates chaos. This is especially true for the sensitive electronics in vehicles like the 2014-2016 Chevy Spark EV and many other GM models.
Instead of facing a massive bill and a long wait at the dealership, we offer a straightforward, reliable solution. This listing is for a replacement Body Control Module, part number 13578458, that arrives at your door fully programmed and ready for installation. We make it simple: after your purchase, you’ll ship us your original BCM. We then transfer all the critical vehicle-specific data to this replacement unit. This cloning process ensures that the new module is a perfect digital twin of your old one, preserving your vehicle’s unique settings and security information. The result is a true plug-and-play fix that gets you back on the road without the need for expensive dealer-specific tools.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2015 Chevy Malibu that came into the shop with a laundry list of bizarre complaints. The interior lights would flicker, the radio would shut off intermittently, and the driver’s power window only worked when it wanted to. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. A scan showed a handful of communication codes, including the dreaded U0140 (Lost Communication With Body Control Module). Instead of just throwing parts at it, we isolated the BCM. A new one from the dealer plus programming was quoted at over $800. This programming service would have been the perfect, cost-effective solution, providing a fully synced module for a fraction of the price and effort.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Common BCM Failure Signs?
- ✔ Intermittent or non-functional power windows, door locks, or mirrors.
- ✔ Erratic behavior from interior or exterior lights (flickering, staying on, or not working at all).
- ✔ The security system light is illuminated, or the vehicle won’t start due to an anti-theft issue.
- ✔ The horn, windshield wipers, or radio are acting unpredictably.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to communication errors, such as U0140, U0155, or other U-codes.
- ✔ Inconsistent A/C and heater fan operation.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the BCM: The location varies by model (see our fitment list). Common spots include behind the driver’s side kick panel, under the dash, or in the engine compartment.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be pressed or lifted. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your newly programmed BCM in the same location and securely fasten it. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it securely.
- ✔ Test and Verify: Start the vehicle and test all body functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc.—to confirm the repair was successful. Note the post-installation procedures below.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our programming service makes this a plug-and-play repair, some GM vehicles require a final handshake between modules after installation. 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 new BCM and is only required if the light appears.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On certain models, a brake pedal position sensor recalibration might be necessary to ensure brake lights and traction control function correctly.
Disclaimer: We are not responsible for any additional programming costs. These procedures can vary by exact model and year. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a qualified technician for guidance.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This BCM programming service is compatible with units matching part number 13578458 and other interchangeable numbers listed below. Please verify your original part number before ordering.
Interchangeable Part Numbers: 13580698, 13578458, 13589115, 13589637, 13590173, 13590851, 13591300, 13592376, 13593775, 13593776, 13594564
This service is for the following vehicles:
- 2014-2016 Chevrolet Spark: Body Control (BCM); (left lower a-pillar), electric model (EV)
- 2014-2015 Buick LaCrosse: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- 2016 Buick LaCrosse: Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel), ID 13580698 or 13594564
- 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)
- 2014-2016 Cadillac ELR: Body Control (BCM); (RH cowl)
- 2016 Cadillac ELR: Communication; (RH engine compartment)
- 2014-2017 Buick Regal: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- 2014 Chevrolet Camaro: Body Control (BCM); (RH dash), Conv
- 2015 Chevrolet Camaro: Body Control (BCM); (RH dash)
- 2014-2016 Cadillac SRX: Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
How does this 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 will transfer all the necessary data to a replacement module. We then ship the ready-to-install, programmed BCM back to you. This process ensures 100% compatibility with your vehicle’s systems.
Do I need to get this programmed by the dealer after I receive it?
No. The module you receive from us is fully programmed with your vehicle’s data. This is a plug-and-play solution designed to eliminate the need for any additional programming at a dealership, saving you time and money.
How long does the process take?
We typically program and ship your replacement BCM within 1-2 business days of receiving your original module. You will receive a tracking number as soon as it’s on its way back to you.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In most cases, even if the BCM has failed, we can still extract the necessary data for cloning. Please contact us with the specifics of your situation if you believe your module is severely damaged (e.g., water or fire damage).
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is no core charge. You are not required to send your old part back to us after installation, as we use it for the initial programming service. You can keep your original module.