GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

BCM Functions

The body control module (BCM) is capable of controlling multiple body functions. Components directly connected to the BCM are controlled by the BCM's outputs. The BCM controls the outputs based on input information that it obtains from the sensors and the switches that are directly connected to it. The BCM can also borrow information from other vehicle systems connected to the Class 2 serial data link. The BCM evaluates this information and controls certain body systems by commanding an output ON or OFF.

The BCM is also capable of commanding other vehicle systems to control functions that are not directly wired and/or controlled by the BCM. The BCM accomplishes this task by sending specific messages on the Class 2 serial data link. The vehicle system capable of performing such function will respond to the BCM message.

The BCM controls the following functions:

    • Audible Warnings
    • Indicator Warnings
    • Interior Lighting
    • Exterior Lighting.
    • Power Door LOCK/UNLOCK
    • Remote Keyless Entry
    • Passlock™ Theft Deterrent
    • Content Theft Deterrent

Audible Warnings

    • Key in ignition reminder
    • Fasten seat belt reminder
    • Park brake reminder
    • Turn signal reminder
    • Headlamps ON reminder

Indicator Warnings

    • Security indicator
    • Fasten belts indicator
    • Park brake indicator
    • High beam indicator

Interior Lighting

    • Interior illumination control
    • Delayed illumination
    • Illuminated entry
    • Exit illumination
    • Keyless entry unlock illumination
    • Inadvertent power (battery rundown) protection

Power Door Locks

    • All door unlock
    • All door lock
    • Lockout prevention

Keyless Entry

    • Remote driver door unlock
    • Remote all door unlock
    • Remote all door lock
    • Remote panic alarm

Passlock™ Theft Deterrent

Passlock™ is a vehicle theft deterrent system. This system contains an ignition key sensor called a Passlock™ sensor. The Passlock™ sensor is part of the ignition lock cylinder assembly. The BCM provides power and ground for the Passlock™ sensor.

When turning the ignition switch to the start position with the proper key, the Passlock™ sensor generates an analog voltage signal. This signal is sent through the Passlock™ detecting circuit. This analog voltage signal is of a specific value to the vehicle, and varies from vehicle to vehicle. When attempting to start the engine, the BCM compares a preset stored analog voltage value with the signal coming from the sensor. Because both values match, the BCM sends a fuel enable password via the Class 2 serial data link to the powertrain control module (PCM) or the vehicle control module (VCM), depending on your powertrain option. As a result, the PCM/VCM allows fuel delivery to the engine.

When attempting to start the engine without the proper key in the ignition switch, the Passlock™ sensor sends an analog voltage signal of a different value. The BCM compares the preset stored analog voltage value with the signal coming from the sensor. Because both values do not match, the BCM sends a fuel disable password via the Class 2 serial data link to the PCM/VCM. As a result, the PCM/VCM disables the fuel delivery to the engine and the vehicle will not start.

Content Theft Deterrent (CTD)

The body control module (BCM) monitors several inputs in order to arm and disarm the CTD system and controls the alarm function outputs. When the BCM detects an unauthorized entry, the BCM applies ground to the horn, the park lamp, and the headlamp relays activating those systems. The BCM applies ground once per second for approximately 2 minutes, or until a valid input to disarm the system is received by the BCM. When the CTD system is activated the BCM will also send a message to the security indicator in the instrument cluster via the class 2 serial data link. The BCM has 8 basic modes for operating the CTD system and 6 discrete inputs to monitor the content theft deterrent system. The CTD system has a remote panic alarm/vehicle locator feature that can be activated anytime the panic button on the key fob is pressed. When the panic button is pressed the remote control door lock receiver sends a message to the BCM which will activate the horns and flash the headlamps and parklamps. The remote panic alarm/vehicle locator activation state can be disabled by the pressing the panic button on the key fob again, or the system will time out after 30 seconds.

Power Requirements

The BCM has 3 main voltage feeds CKT 1140, CKT 39, and CKT 41 and 2 grounds on CKT 1850.