Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit/System Description
When the engine is running and the transmission is placed in reverse gear, the transmission control module (TCM) sends a serial data message to the body control module (BCM). The message indicates that the gear selector is in the reverse position. The BCM applies battery voltage to the backup lamps. The backup lamps are permanently grounded. Once the driver moves the gear selector out of the reverse position, a message is sent by the TCM via serial data requesting the BCM to remove battery voltage from the backup lamp signal circuit. The BCM will not apply battery voltage to the backup lamps if the engine is not running.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.