Are you chasing down electrical gremlins in your GM vehicle? Flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows, a dead instrument cluster, or a car that refuses to start can all point to one culprit: a failing Body Control Module (BCM). As the central hub for your car’s body electronics, when the BCM goes bad, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a serious safety issue.
This listing is for a replacement BCM, compatible with part numbers 13580696, 123589093, 13588446, 13584692, and 13583542. We offer a straightforward mail-in cloning service that eliminates the need for a costly trip to the dealership. Simply send us your original BCM, and we will transfer all of its critical data—including VIN, mileage, and key information—to this replacement unit. The result is a fully programmed GM BCM that is truly plug-and-play, getting you back on the road with minimal downtime and expense.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Confused Equinox
I remember a 2012 Chevy Equinox that came into my bay with the strangest set of symptoms. The owner said the radio would turn on by itself, the dome lights wouldn’t turn off, and occasionally, the turn signals would stop working altogether. He’d already replaced the battery and checked all the fuses. After connecting my scan tool, I found a slew of communication error codes (U-codes) all pointing back to the BCM. Instead of a complex and expensive dealer replacement, we used a cloning service just like this one. We had the original module cloned, and the new unit plugged right in. All the electrical gremlins vanished instantly. This service saved the customer hundreds of dollars and hours of diagnostic headaches.
Common Signs of a Failing GM BCM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following, a faulty BCM could be the cause. In my 20+ years of experience, these are the most frequent indicators I’ve seen in the shop:
- âś” Erratic or non-functional interior/exterior lights
- âś” Power windows, door locks, or security system acting up
- âś” Instrument panel gauges behaving incorrectly or not at all
- âś” The engine won’t crank or start due to security system lock-out
- âś” Communication error codes, such as U0140, stored in other modules
- âś” Unresponsive key fob or remote start functions
Your Step-by-Step BCM Replacement Guide
Installing your newly programmed GM BCM is a straightforward process. While the exact location varies by model (see fitment list), the general steps are consistent.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the BCM: The module is typically found under the driver’s or passenger’s side of the dashboard, inside a kick panel, or sometimes in the engine bay (as with the Volt).
- Remove Connectors: Carefully unplug all electrical connectors from the old BCM. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed to be released. Do not force them.
- Swap the Module: Unbolt or unclip the old BCM from its mounting bracket and remove it. Install the new, programmed module in its place.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug all electrical connectors securely into the new BCM. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Final Checks: Start the vehicle and test all functions—lights, locks, windows, radio, etc. Note the post-installation procedures below, as some recalibrations may be necessary.
Important Post-Installation Information
While our cloning service makes this a 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 your 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.
- Brake Pedal Position Relearn: On certain models, a brake pedal position sensor relearn may 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 Vehicle Compatibility List
This BCM is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles. Please match your part number (13580696, 123589093, 13588446, 13584692, or 13583542) and vehicle options for a perfect match.
- Buick LaCrosse: 2012 (ID 13580696), 2013 – Body Control (BCM); (LH kick panel)
- Buick Regal: 2012 – Body Control (BCM); (LH dash)
- Buick Verano: 2012 – Body Control (BCM); (below center of dash)
- Cadillac SRX: 2012 – Body Control (BCM); (LH dash), ID 13580696
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2012-2013, 2014 (Cpe) – Body Control (BCM); (RH dash)
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2012 – Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash)
- Chevrolet Spark: 2013 – Body Control (BCM); (left lower a-pillar)
- Chevrolet Volt: 2012 – Body Control (BCM); (RH engine compartment)
- GMC Terrain: 2012 – Body Control (BCM); (LH side dash)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the mail-in cloning service work?
After you purchase, we will provide you with shipping instructions. You send us your original, faulty BCM. We then extract the unique data from your module and flash it onto the replacement unit. We ship the ready-to-install BCM back to you, typically within 1-2 business days of receiving yours.
Will I need to program my keys again?
No. Because we clone your original module’s data, the replacement BCM will recognize your existing keys. This is a major benefit that saves you the cost and hassle of key reprogramming at a dealership.
Is there a core charge?
No, there is no core charge for this service. We will ship your original module back to you along with the newly programmed replacement unit.
What if I have an airbag light after installation?
This is a known possibility. The airbag module (SDM) and BCM are linked for security. If the light appears, a shop with a professional-grade scan tool will need to perform a quick ‘Setup SDM Primary Key in BCM’ relearn procedure to sync the modules.
What tools do I need to install this myself?
For most models, only basic hand tools are required, such as a socket set and a trim removal tool to access the BCM. No special electronic or programming tools are needed for the installation itself.