OEM Theft Control Module for 2018-2025 Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, & GMC

What to Look For When Buying

• Correct part: Make sure the part is designed for your specific year, make, and model of car.
• Condition: If buying a used part, check for any signs of damage or wear.
• Warranty: See if the part comes with a warranty. This can protect you if the part fails soon after you buy it.

Quality Indicators

What's Included

• The theft control module itself.
• Sometimes, instructions for installation (especially with new aftermarket parts).
• You may need to program the module to your car after installation. This is usually done by a mechanic.

Difficulty Level and Estimated Time

• Difficulty: Medium
• Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

Special Tools Needed

• Socket set
• Screwdrivers
• OBD2 scanner (for clearing codes)
• Possibly a programming tool (depending on the car and module)

Critical Steps and Tips

1. Disconnect the battery: Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on electrical components.
2. Locate the module: The theft control module is usually located under the dashboard or in the center console. Check your car's repair manual for the exact location.
3. Remove the old module: Disconnect the wiring harness and remove the screws or clips holding the module in place.
4. Install the new module: Connect the wiring harness and secure the module with the screws or clips.
5. Reconnect the battery: Reconnect the negative battery cable.
6. Program the module: You may need to program the new module to your car using an OBD2 scanner or a specialized programming tool.
7. Clear trouble codes: Use an OBD2 scanner to clear any trouble codes related to the security system.

DIY or Professional Installation?

• DIY: If you're comfortable working on cars and have some experience with electrical systems, you might be able to install the theft control module yourself.
• Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable working on cars or don't have the necessary tools, it's best to have a professional install the module. Programming the module often requires specialized equipment.

Used OEM

• Description: Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part that was previously used.
• Pros:
• Lower price than new parts.
• Genuine factory part, so you know it's designed to work with your car.
• Often tested and inspected to ensure it's in good working condition.
• Cons:
• May have some wear and tear.
• Might not last as long as a new part.

New Aftermarket

• Description: Brand new part made by a third-party manufacturer.
• Pros:
• Brand new and unused.
• Can be less expensive than new OEM parts.
• Cons:
• Quality can vary depending on the manufacturer.
• May not fit or function as well as an OEM part.

Parts Commonly Replaced or Checked

• Battery: A weak battery can cause problems with the theft control module.
• Key Fob: If your key fob isn't working, it could be related to the theft control module.
• Ignition Switch: A faulty ignition switch can also cause security system problems.
• Wiring Harness: Damaged or corroded wiring can prevent the theft control module from working properly.

Preventing Repeat Failures

Replacing related parts can help prevent repeat failures. For example, if a weak battery caused the original theft control module to fail, replacing the battery along with the module can help prevent the new module from failing as well. Addressing any underlying electrical issues is crucial for long-term reliability.

How Long This Part Normally Lasts

• A theft control module can last for 10 years or more under normal conditions.

Factors That Affect Longevity

• Climate: Extreme temperatures and humidity can shorten the lifespan of the module.
• Water damage: Water damage is a common cause of failure.
• Electrical surges: Power surges can damage the module.
• Driving conditions: Rough roads and frequent vibrations can also shorten the lifespan of the module.

Budget vs Mid-Range vs Premium Options

• Used OEM: $50 - $150
• New Aftermarket: $75 - $250

Labor Cost Considerations

• Labor costs to install a theft control module can range from $100 to $300, depending on the complexity of the job and the mechanic's hourly rate.

Total Job Cost Estimates

• Used OEM + Labor: $150 - $450
• New Aftermarket + Labor: $175 - $550

Known Issues

Some 2019-2025 Buick, Cadillac, and Chevrolet vehicles have reported issues with the theft control module causing false alarms or preventing the car from starting. These issues are sometimes related to software glitches or faulty wiring.

TSBs and Common Complaints

Check with your local dealer or online resources for any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the theft control module on your specific vehicle. Common complaints include the security light staying on, the car not starting, and the alarm going off randomly.

How to Confirm Proper Operation

• Start the car: Make sure the car starts and runs smoothly.
• Test the key fob: Test the key fob to make sure it locks and unlocks the doors.
• Check the security light: The security light should turn off after the car starts.
• Listen for the alarm: Make sure the alarm doesn't go off randomly.

What to Look/Listen For

• No security light illuminated after starting the car.
• Key fob functions properly.
• No false alarms.
• Smooth engine start and operation.

Q: Will this theft control module need to be programmed to my car?
A: Yes, in most cases, the theft control module will need to be programmed to your car after installation. This is because the module needs to be synchronized with your car's security system.

Q: Can I program the theft control module myself?
A: Programming the theft control module usually requires specialized equipment and software. It's best to have a qualified mechanic program the module for you.

Q: What happens if I don't program the theft control module?
A: If you don't program the theft control module, the car may not start, or the security system may not function properly.

Q: How do I know if the theft control module is the problem?
A: Common symptoms of a failing theft control module include the car alarm going off randomly, the car not starting, and the security light staying on. It's best to have a mechanic diagnose the problem to be sure.

Q: Is it safe to buy a used theft control module?
A: Yes, buying a used OEM theft control module can be a good option. Just make sure to buy it from a reputable source and check for any signs of damage or wear.

OEM Part Numbers:

• GM: 13518838, 13518843, 13520524, 13558725

Fits Years: 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025