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.
BCM Functions
The body control module (BCM) performs multiple body control functions. The BCM can control devices directly connected to its outputs based on input information. The BCM evaluates this information and controls certain body control systems by commanding outputs on or off. The BCM inputs can be:
- Sensors and switches that are directly connected to the BCM
- Class 2 serial data messages received from other vehicle systems connected to the class 2 serial data link
- Controller area network (CAN) serial data messages received from other vehicles systems connected to the CAN serial data link
The BCM is also capable of controlling other vehicle systems that are not directly wired to the BCM. The BCM does this by sending specific messages on the class 2 serial data link or CAN serial data link. The system capable of performing the required function will respond to the BCM messages.
Some of the other systems' functions that BCM controls or contributes to are:
- Audible warnings. Refer to Audible Warnings Description and Operation in Instrument Panel, Gages and Console
- Exterior lighting control. Refer to Exterior Lighting Systems Description and Operation in Lighting Systems
- Interior lighting. Refer to Interior Lighting Systems Description and Operation in Lighting Systems
- Automatic door locks. Refer to Power Door Locks Description and Operation in Doors
- Keyless entry. Refer to Keyless Entry System Description and Operation in Keyless Entry
- Theft deterrent. Refer to Content Theft Deterrent (CTD) Description and Operation in Theft Deterrent
- Wipers/washers. Refer to Wiper/Washer System Description and Operation in Wipers/Washer Systems
- Rear defogger. Refer to Rear Window Defogger Description and Operation in Stationary Windows
- Horn. Refer to Horns System Description and Operation in Horns
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.