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
The vehicle power mode master is the body control module (BCM). The ignition switch is a low current switch with multiple discrete circuits to the BCM. The BCM logic uses the ignition switch positions to identify the operator's desired power mode and activate specific discrete signals, and serial data messages for the operation of different subsystems as necessary. Other modules which have switched voltage inputs may operate in a default mode if the power mode master serial data message does not match what the individual module can detect from its own connections.
The power mode master will activate relays and other direct outputs of the power mode master as needed according to the calculated power mode. Some relays controlled by the BCM are switched ignition voltage outputs that are pass through circuits within the BCM directly from the ignition switch. If these circuits short to ground, the B+ circuit fuse to the ignition switch will open.
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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.