Restore Your Vehicle’s Electrical Stability with a Plug-and-Play Solution
Are you chasing electrical gremlins in your 2013-2017 Chevy Equinox or other compatible GM vehicle? Flickering lights, malfunctioning windows, a security system that has a mind of its own, or a car that won’t start are classic signs of a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central nervous system for your car’s electronics, a faulty BCM can cause a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated issues. In my 20+ years of diagnostics, I’ve seen how a bad BCM can make a perfectly good car feel unreliable. The dealership solution often involves expensive new parts and programming fees, but there’s a smarter, more cost-effective way.
This is a fully programmed Equinox Body Control Module, ready for installation. We take the guesswork and high costs out of the repair. Our professional cloning service transfers all the critical data—including VIN, mileage, and key information—from your original BCM to this replacement unit. The result is a true plug-and-play module that restores function without needing a trip to the dealer for expensive programming. Simply send us your original module, and we’ll handle the complex technical work, shipping you back a ready-to-install part promptly.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Haunted Malibu
A customer brought in a 2013 Malibu with a bizarre list of complaints: the radio would turn on by itself, the dome lights wouldn’t turn off, and the anti-theft light was flashing intermittently. They had already replaced the battery, thinking it was a simple voltage issue. My scan tool showed a dozen communication errors (U-codes) pointing to the BCM. Instead of just replacing it, which would require a tow to the dealer for programming, we used our cloning service. We transferred the data from his old, failing BCM to our replacement unit. An hour after he dropped the car off, he was driving away with all electrical functions restored. This service saved him hundreds in programming and towing fees and got his daily driver back on the road the same day.
Key Signs Your BCM is Failing
- ✔ Erratic behavior of interior/exterior lights, power windows, and door locks.
- ✔ Instrument cluster gauges behaving abnormally or not working at all.
- ✔ The security system activating randomly or preventing the car from starting (anti-theft light on).
- ✔ No-start or intermittent starting conditions, even with a good battery and starter.
- ✔ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication loss, such as U0100, U0140, or other U-codes.
- ✔ Malfunctions with the heating and A/C blower motor controls.
Your Straightforward BCM Installation Guide
Installing your programmed Equinox Body Control Module is a manageable job for a DIYer. The goal is to swap the modules without any complex programming. Follow these steps carefully.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before working on any electronic components.
- Locate the BCM: On most Equinox and Terrain models, the BCM is located on the left-hand (driver’s) side of the dashboard, often behind the lower dash panel or kick panel. For other models, its location can vary (see fitment list for clues).
- Access the Module: You may need to remove a few plastic trim panels to get clear access. These are typically held in by clips or small screws. A plastic trim removal tool is recommended to avoid scratches.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be pressed to release. Once disconnected, unbolt or unclip the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount the replacement BCM in the same position and reconnect all the electrical connectors. Ensure they click securely into place.
- Final Steps: Reinstall any trim panels you removed and reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle to confirm that the electrical issues are resolved.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service makes this a near plug-and-play repair, some vehicle systems may require a ‘handshake’ with the new BCM. Please be aware of the following potential procedures:
- 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 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 your brake lights and traction control system function correctly.
Disclaimer: Vehicle systems vary. We always recommend consulting a factory service manual or a certified technician if you are unsure about any step.
Verified Compatibility for Your Vehicle
This module is a direct-fit replacement for part number 13580697 and is interchangeable with the following part numbers: 13584695, 13586273, 13588447, 13589197, 13589324, 13589325. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- 2013-2017 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2013-2017 GMC Terrain
- 2013 Chevrolet Volt (ID 13580697 or 13586273)
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Cruze
- 2016 Chevrolet Cruze (Limited, VIN P)
- 2013-2014 Buick Encore
- 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2013 Buick Regal
- 2013 Cadillac SRX
- 2014-2015 Chevrolet Spark (Gasoline)
- 2013-2014 Chevrolet Orlando
- 2013-2017 Buick Verano
- 2013-2014 Chevrolet Trax
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cloning service work?
After you purchase, we will contact you with instructions to ship your original BCM to us. Once we receive it, our technicians will transfer all the necessary programming and vehicle-specific data to the replacement module. We then ship the ready-to-install module back to you.
Do I need to send my keys?
No, you do not need to send your keys. Our cloning process transfers the key data from your old module to the new one, so your existing keys will work perfectly upon installation.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my vehicle’s problems?
This part resolves issues directly caused by a faulty BCM. While the symptoms listed are common for BCM failure, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the BCM is the root cause before ordering.
What if my original BCM is completely dead or not communicating?
In many cases, we can still extract the necessary data even from a non-communicating module. Please contact us before ordering if your BCM is severely damaged (e.g., by water or fire) to discuss the possibilities.
Do I have to pay a core charge or send my old part back after?
There is no core charge. We need your original module beforehand to perform the programming service. Once you receive the programmed replacement, you can keep your original module.
Will this programmed Equinox Body Control Module fix my check engine light?
A BCM typically controls body electronics, not engine functions. If your check engine light is on, the problem is likely with a different component, such as the Engine Control Module (ECM) or a sensor. A BCM replacement will not fix engine-related fault codes.