
Some of the major/common systems that the BCM controls include:
- Immobilizer system
- AC system
- Energy management system
- Safety and security systems
- Driver assistance systems
- Anti-theft systems
- Driver authorization and access systems
- Alarm system
What components are controlled by the BCM?
BCM Unit: Meet Body Control Module (BCM), the brain behind Automotive Electronics. It manages the inter-ECU Communication between Power windows, Wipers, Automatic door lock, HVAC, Head-Lamps & Rear-Lamps (Automotive Lighting) & a host of other body electronics features. ... Hardware & Software Components of Body Control Module Architecture.
Can a bad BCM cause a car not to start?
Sometimes, parasitic drain exceeds what is normal, and can cause car battery drain. Because of the BCM’s communications with other modules and components you may experience a no crank or no start condition. In many cases, your BCM will alert you to issues with symptoms, warning lights or both.
Does a BCM control the instrument cluster?
The vehicle odometer is calculated and stored electronically in the body control module (BCM) and is sent via class 2 to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) for display. The BCM calculates and stores the mileage based on the vehicle speed class 2 message from the powertrain control module (PCM)/engine control module (ECM).
Does BCM have to be programmed?
The body control module (BCM) must be programmed with the proper RPO configurations. The BCM stores the information regarding the vehicle options and if the BCM is not properly configured with the correct RPO codes, the BCM will not control all of the features properly.

What happens when the BCM goes out?
A malfunctioning BCM will activate dashboard instrumentation cluster error and warning lights. These lights may flash off and on if the BCM is not able to read the sensors correctly. Your vehicle performance may also be affected as the BCM communicates with other control modules in the vehicle.
What can cause a BCM to go bad?
Most of the time, a damaged BCM will have to be replaced and can't be repaired. Water, vibration, heat and age can all contribute to a module failing, which, depending on the placement of the unit in your vehicle, can be difficult to avoid.
Does BCM control transmission?
The body control module is one of the three main controller units in your vehicle. It basically controls most of the auxiliary systems in your vehicle, that are not associated with the transmission or engine.
Can a BCM stop a car running?
The BCM often acts as a gateway module responsible for monitoring and controlling all other sub-computers in your car. The short answer is yes, on some vehicles. A body control module (BCM) that isn't properly receiving or transmitting signals can prevent certain vehicles from starting, depending on the system design.
Can you reset your BCM?
The BCM is the central unit of a car just like CPU in your personal computers. It controls and manages numerous functions inside the engine unit. If the central system is not working properly, a professional will perform a Body Control Module reset to make things perfect again.
Can you just swap a BCM?
Re: Relpacement swap of BCM without dealer you can reprogram the bcm but is dealer only to reprogram the keys . you will need to get the correct bcm with matching code as they are slightly different.
Does the BCM control the fuel pump?
The reason is that the BCM feeds inputs into the Passlock (or other security system) for it to 'determine' if it is being stolen or hotwired. For example: the status of the doors, interior lights, trunk status, etc. and in some cases can even control the fuel pump.
Does BCM control HVAC?
BCM Controls can combine all your facility management needs into a single integrated automation solution controlling and monitoring HVAC, Lighting, Security, Card Access,Video and Fire/Life Safety systems.
Does the BCM talk to the ECU?
Body Control Module in automotive, makes use of the vehicle's bus system (CAN, LIN, etc.) to communicate with different ECUs in the vehicle. This module can be considered to be the brain controlling different body parts (different ECUs) by sending and receiving signals through the nerves (vehicle BUS).
Is there a fuse for the BCM?
The fuse panel is located under the right-hand side of the instrument panel. To remove the trim panel for access to the fuse box, pull the panel toward you and swing it out away from the side and remove it.
Can I replace my BCM with a used one?
Body control modules are not interchangeable from one vehicle to the next in most cases. A used body control module may or may not permit reprogramming, and if not, the vehicle will never pass its own security protocol to enable the engine to start.
What is the code for a bad BCM?
More About Error Code U0140 The BCM is part of your car's electrical system. It controls various functions, including the tire pressure monitor, door locks, keyless entry and anti-theft systems. DTC U0140 could imply that the BCM is faulty and it's not receiving or sending signals properly.
How can you tell if BCM is bad?
5 Symptoms of a Bad Body Control Module (and Replacement Cost)#1 – Repeated Battery Drain.#2 – Erratic Electrical Function.#3 – Security System Problems.#4 – Dash Warning Lights.#5 – Failure To Start.
Is there a fuse for the BCM?
The fuse panel is located under the right-hand side of the instrument panel. To remove the trim panel for access to the fuse box, pull the panel toward you and swing it out away from the side and remove it.
How can you tell if a control module is bad?
There are several symptoms that can be seen as red signs for a bad engine control module.Erratic engine behaviour. ... Inability to start the vehicle. ... Poor engine performance. ... Inefficient fuel economy. ... Warning light. ... Engine shuts off.
How much does it cost to replace a BCM?
The average cost for body control module replacement is between $566 and $592. Labor costs are estimated between $78 and $99 while parts are priced between $488 and $494. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What is BCM in a car?
Front and Rear Lamp Load Control: The BCM communicates with the electric system of the vehicle by controlling the load drivers. These drivers then activate the relay and control the lamps.
What is body control module?
A body control module eliminates the need for this additional wiring. It also manages the flow of power so that the electrical module of the car does not get over-burdened when multiple functions are carried out at the same time.
What is component level diagnostic?
Component level diagnosis refers to confirming the integrity of all the sub-components and separate boards.
What is an automotive body control module?
Automotive Body Control Module is a multi-faceted electronic componentthat supports multiple functions, the foremost being the management of a gamut of automotive body electronics.
What is an ECU module?
A typical Body Control Module ECU consists of a microprocessor to control the various functions of vehicle’s body electronics (power window, wiper, side-view mirrors and more).
Can you control a vehicle without a BCM?
Likewise, there are innumerable body control functions that need to be performed smoothly and reliably. Controlling these parts would also be possible without a BCM unit; but that would amount to additional wiring inside the vehicle. A body control module eliminates the need for this additional wiring.
What is a BCM?
A body control module (BCM) is a computer used to control electrical items in a car or truck which used to be controlled individually by switches. Car makers switched to this design for several reasons: to reduce overall vehicle weight by reducing the size and quantity of copper wire used, to monitor and control power usage, ...
What is the BCM wire for headlights?
In most cases the wiring to the headlight switch is just a single small gauge wire. The BCM supplies low voltage to the headlight switch on this single wire and monitors the voltage. When the driver turns on the headlights, the headlight switch either connects that voltage to ground, causing a voltage drop, or open the circuit to ground. In either case, the BCM detects the change and energizes or de-energizes the control coil for the headlight relay.
What is a body control module rebuilder?
A body control module rebuilder should perform complete body control module reprogramming in their price. Auto parts stores also sell rebuilt body control modules. The largest rebuilder is Cardone and that’s the brand you’ll likely find at the auto parts store. Cardone is considered a high quality rebuilder of bad body control modules.
How much does a 19116648 body control module cost?
That price doesn’t include programming. However, you can buy a body control module replacement unit 19116648 from autoecmstore.com for around $295 (once you return your old unit for a core charge credit).
Can a bad BCM prevent you from turning on lights?
A bad BCM body control module can prevent you from scanning for trouble codes, kill your digital instrument cluster and gas gauge, and prevent you from turning on lights or starting the engine. In the early days, replacing a bad body control module meant paying a small fortune for a new one from a dealer. That’s not the case anymore. Lots of companies offer rebuilt units to replace your bad body control module BCM.
Do quality rebuilders put a VIN number on a body control module?
Finally, a quality rebuilder will print program the unit to your exact VIN number so you don’t have to pay the dealer to do a program update. Once it’s programmed, they’ll put a new part number label so the body control module can be properly identified in the future.
Can a BCM be damaged by a relay?
Any type of electrical surge can damage a body control module, so it’s wise to exercise extra care when jumping the vehicle. The BCM can also be damaged by a short in a relay or an induced voltage on the data lines. Keep in mind that the body control module is simply a computer with programming, inputs and outputs.
What is a BCM in a car?
You’ve probably never thought about the body control module (BCM) in your car, but this component plays an important and comprehensive role in how the electrical features of your vehicle operate. Since the BCM touches on so many different systems, it’s not always obvious when things start to go awry. Check out this brief explanation of the BCM and the symptoms that could indicate it’s on the fritz.
Why is my BCM module failing?
Water, vibration, heat and age can all contribute to a module failing, which, depending on the placement of the unit in your vehicle, can be difficult to avoid. To keep your new BCM in the best shape possible, make sure it stays clean and dry, and protect it from unwanted shaking or excessive heat if at all possible.
What does the body control module do?
It links together various electronic vehicle features and keeps them under central surveillance to make it easier for your automobile to operate them. While there might not be much of a functional link between your power sunroof and your gauge cluster, having them all under one roof is a common practice in automotive design.
What are some examples of body control problems?
Examples include flashing dash lights, a stereo system switching from AM to CD in the middle of a broadcast, the horn honking when you put down a specific window or hazard lights activating themselves in the middle of a drive.
What is the control part of a BCM?
The controlling part is done in the micro-controller that is present in the BCM. The block diagram above gives a general representation of this. The input devices feed the data to the control module. The devices that can be input to this module are sensors, variable reactors, etc. Whereas, the output devices are the devices that generate a response to the signal from the input devices. These devices include the like of relays and solenoids, among others. Through these, the BCM exercises control over various systems. The glue logic is a customized circuit that serves as an interface for other standard as well as customized circuits.
What are the systems under control of BCM?
The systems under the control of the BCM include comfort as well as security systems. It must have a design that can adapt to the changes in the future. This can be achieved through its flexible architecture. It must also be energy efficient, and consume minimum energy when on standby mode.
What Does a Body Control Module Do?
The BCM is a core component and can perform many functions. It takes the data from the input devices. The output devices are controlled based on this with the help of a LIN (Local Interconnect Network) or CAN (Controller Area Network), which is used for communication between various modules in the vehicle. There are many electronic systems that have control over various functions present in the car, and all these electronic modules come under the control of the BCM.
What is a BCM?
The BCM regulates the operation of various systems present in a car. These operations can take place simultaneously, as this module can handle multitasking in an efficient manner. It can also detect the malfunctioning in the wiring or components.
Where is the BCM located?
The location of the BCM is generally behind the kick panel in the vehicle, or under the dashboard of a car.
Is BCM software compatible with hardware?
Users must keep an eye on the software of the BCM along with its hardware. This should not be a problem, as BCMs have AUTOSAR (AUTomotive Open System ARchitecture). Compatibility of the software with the car system is as important as its hardware compatibility.
What is a BCM?
The Body Control Module (BCM) could be considered a central organizational module for your vehicle. It streamlines the manufacturing and troubleshooting aspects of electronic modules by housing the modules into one, central unit instead of each function having its own device. It also coordinates the operating functions of many non-engine related ancillary items as well as security features. If your BCM begins to malfunction, you will notice a negative effect on the operation of the various parts that the Body Control Module commands and it’s likely that you’ll experience one or more of the following symptoms:
What happens if a BCM is not working?
A malfunctioning BCM will activate dashboard instrumentation cluster error and warning lights. These lights may flash off and on if the BCM is not able to read the sensors correctly. Your vehicle performance may also be affected as the BCM communicates with other control modules in the vehicle.
What happens if your BCM starts malfunctioning?
If your BCM begins to malfunction, you will notice a negative effect on the operation of the various parts that the Body Control Module commands and it’s likely that you’ll experience one or more of the following symptoms:
What is a BCM?
The BCM, is the body computer that checks in on many of the vital systems of the car and controls theme from a centralized hub. If your control module bcm malfunctions, it can either actively cause damage to your car by messing up the systems that it controls or passively cause damage to your car by failing to alert you about systems ...
What is the BCM in a car?
The BCM is supposed to facilitate communication between the vehicle bus of the car and other onboard computers, relaying that information to the user.
What Can Cause the Bad Body Control Module Symptoms ?
Like most computers, there are certain things that can damage the functioning of the BCM.
What happens if BCM goes out of touch?
If the BCM gets out of touch, the dashboard lights might flash on and off, or might go on or off when they are actually not supposed to be triggered. If the check engine lights are coming on and off, the good news is that this might simply be a body control module bcm failure and not an actual engine failure.
Why is my BCM not working?
Like most computers, there are certain things that can damage the functioning of the BCM. Shock and mechanical wear are the most probable reasons that your body control module is no longer working properly. Usually, there is some combination of these things.
Can shock cause a BCM to fail?
Over time, your system naturally becomes less stable. Combine the instability of extended use with a little bit of shock and your BCM can fail.
Is a body control module expensive?
Dealing with bad Body Control Module symptoms. The good news is that body control modules usually aren’t too expensive. If you go to any auto parts store, you should be able to get a new one for most makes and models for under a couple hundred dollars.
