Warning Signs of a Failing Body Control Module:
- Your car's lights might act strange, like flickering or staying on when they should be off.
- Power windows or door locks might stop working or work sometimes.
- The car alarm could go off for no reason.
- The wipers might not work right or at all.
- The car might not start, or it could stall while you're driving.
Testing the Body Control Module:
It can be tricky to know if the Body Control Module (BCM) is really the problem. Here's how to check:
- Check the battery: A weak battery can cause problems that look like a bad BCM. Make sure your battery is strong.
- Check the fuses: Look at the fuses related to the BCM and the things it controls (lights, windows, etc.). A blown fuse is an easy fix.
- Use a scan tool: A mechanic can use a scan tool to read codes from the BCM. These codes can give clues about what's wrong.
- Test the wiring: Wires can get damaged or loose. Check the wires going to the BCM for any problems.
Common Causes of BCM Failure:
- Water damage: Water can get into the BCM and cause it to short out.
- Electrical surges: Power surges can damage the BCM's sensitive electronics.
- Old age: Over time, the parts inside the BCM can wear out.
- Short circuits: Problems in other parts of the car's electrical system can damage the BCM.