Body Control Module

[cazorp]

Has anyone of you had to replace the Body Control Module on your C-5. I believe I may be having to do that soon. Can you tell me the kinds of things that happen when one goes bad? On my 2001 coupe, I get all kinds of warning messages on the DIC and all the lights come on, such as the Active Handling Light, ABS light, etc. I also get messages like, service engine soon; reduced power; check tire monitoring sensors; low fuel; etc.
Also, my windows quit operating; as well as the power door locks and the radio quits working.
I can turn off the engine, and it may clear everything and then act like nothing is going on for a day or two, and then the same things happen again.
I have replaced the battery and had all of the 9 grounding connectors checked and tightened on the car. My mechanic, who is not a dealership, advises me to take it to the dealership as he says the BCM is warranted for up to 8 years.
Does anyone have any expertise in this area? Your help is appreciated.

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

cazorp,

The BCM was replaced on my 1999 C5 coupe while under the new car warranty. The a/c evaporator drain clogged and caused water to overflow under the dash and enter the BCM compartment. The water followed the wiring and entered the computer, ruining it.

Before the car shut down and would not start, the following REPEATEDLY occurred while I was driving:

Horn would sound
Power door locks would lock and unlock
Hatch unlatched
Numerous messages would appear on the DIC
Dash gauges would "sweep" (like when you start the car)

Have you checked the passenger footwell cover for the computer? Is there evidence of water intrusion inside? The water may flow behind the carpet and enter the computer compartment.

I did not replace the BCM myself. I posted this message to tell you of my experience when the BCM "went haywire" due to water intrusion.

Good luck.

 

[cazorp]

Yes, I've checked that and I had my mechanic check 9 separate ground connections all over the frame. WE even replaced the battery. I get all kinds of warnings like, check engine; service engine soon; bells go off as if the lights are on.; check tire monitoring system; active handling light comes on, etc.
Is there such a part as a Vehicle Control Module? I was told that I needed to replace the Body Control Module. I am aware that there is a Power Control Module also.
This is very frustrating, to say the least.
Thanks for your reply.

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

cazorp,

One additional thing to check. My 1999 C5 coupe also leaked acid from the original Delco battery. It caused considerable damage to items below the battery tray (vacuum lines, wiring harnesses, and a computer (The powertraiin control module - PCM).

The acid damage is virtually undetectable from "above" in the engine compartment. To see any acid damage you must removed the battery and tray or remove the RF wheel/tire and inner fender liner.

It is possible that you have previous acid damage that has now eaten its way into wiring and/or the PCM. You may also want to check for this damage.

Good luck.

 

[splash]

I know that you have replaced your battery but this has happened to me also. You should make sure that the connections to the battery post are good an not corroded and ensure that the battey post are tight since our cars have side battery post getting them on there properly and being tight can some times be a nightmare eventhough it is simple. Hope this helps.

 

[Hib Halverson]

I'd think the body computer is probably not the most obvious problem as some of the warning lights you see have to do with the PCM and the ABS/TCS/AH controller.

First, i'd get the factory service manual, for it's component locators, then go though the car checking major wires and connections paying special attention to B+, major grounds and the links between the car's various computers.

If you don't find an obvious problem pretty quickly, then you need to take the car to a service facility familiar with electrical diagnosis of late model cars and be prepared for a fairly big bill.

Unfortunately, BCMs, nor anything else on the car, are warranted for 8 years. You'll get 3/36,000 unless you have an extended warranty but, even then, I've never heard of an extended that's good for 8 yrs.

 

[c4c5specialist]

Hi there,
They may be talking about the PCM, or Powertrain Control Module.
This, along with the catalytic converter is warranteed for 8 yrs/80000 miles from the factory.
As far as the rest, I can tell you this, there is a communications failure in your car. This is what is causing everything NOT to work.
I would suggest that you have an actual Corvette specialist take a look at the vehicle. There are a few things that can be done to isolate which control module is causing the problem and repairing the condition.
Allthebest, c4c5