- Camaro and Firebird: How to Repair and Replace Body Control Module
Step by step instructions for do-it-yourself repairs
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Does New BCM have to be Flashed by the Dealer?
https://ls1tech.com/forums/pcm-diagn...l#post16648617

The GM part number is 9353691 and it is $300 from the dealer or about $155 online.
Whitebird can you tell me where to find it online NEW? i was going to go to the dealership tomorrow but if i can save $150 that would be sweet!
I had not heard of rebuilt BCMs and I would be cautious about buying one. The BCM can only be programmed once (when new) so I would be curious how a rebuilder could get around that.
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Not only does the factory service manual specify exactly how to initialize a new BCM (insert key and turn on ignition) but I have done it myself as have others who have posted in this thread.
Your car may have had a VATS bypass previously installed which could have prevented the initialization from working properly.
Important
Any new body control module (BCM) will automatically program to the resistance of the key (or interrogator setting) being used at the first ignition ON cycle. This can only be done once for the life of the module.
A new BCM is not programmed. Before the system will function properly it must be programmed to the code that matches the customer's keys.
1. Install the new BCM. Refer to Body Control Module Replacement
2. Insert one of the customer's keys into the ignition cylinder and turn it to the on position. Its good to start the engine at this time to verify system operation.
3. Observe the SECURITY indicator lamp for the following:
- The indicator lamp lights for approximately 5 seconds and then goes out. This indicates that the BCM is programmed properly.
- The indicator lamp flashes at a rate of one flash per second until the ignition is off. This indicates that the BCM did not program and the system components, wiring and contacts should be checked for a fault.
- Turn the ignition switch to the RUN position.
- Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
- Remove the Radio fuse 17 from the I/P fuse block.
- Turn the ignition switch to the ACCY position (the BCM sounds 1 or 2 audible warning tones).
- Within five seconds, turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and immediately (within 1 second) back to the ACCY position (the BCM sounds three audible warning tones to signal entry into the diagnostic mode).
The BCM will begin flashing trouble codes four seconds after entering the diagnostic mode. Each flash of the security indicator lamp on the IPC represents a number. For example, one flash followed by two quick flashes represents code 12. Each code is displayed three times before the next code is displayed. Stored DTCs are displayed in numerical order. Once the last code is displayed, the list begins again with the first code. The display continues until the diagnostic mode is exited
Are you sure you're not thinking of a PCM rather than a BCM? The reason I ask is because the BCM doesn't even connect to a Tech 2 programmer for diagnostics let alone programming. BCM Diagnostics are done in the car using the SECURITY light in the instrument cluster to flash diagnostic codes:
I am getting ready to purchase a BCM from Amazon; they are cheaper than GM Parts Direct after their outrageous shipping and handling charges. I have two questions:
1.) I noticed in the description for the one from Amazon it says it is remanufactured. I would rather buy new, but I have a feeling the one from GM Parts Direct or a dealer will still be re-manufactured. Does anyone know for sure if the one from GM Parts Direct or a dealer would be a re-man or new unit? Here is the Amazon link if anyone wants to look at it:
2.) In trying to diagnose the intermittent "no start" problem with my '01 SS I bypassed the Vats. Can I leave the bypass in place and let the "new" BCM learn the resistance from the bypass instead of the key? In my thinking the BCM won't know the difference between the bypass and the key because it's just looking for a resistance value.
Thanks in advance for the help!!
2) As long as your bypass resistors are within tolerance for one of the 14 preset values, I see no reason why it wouldn't work. The BCM sees the resistance - it has no way to differentiate between a key pellet and an external resistor. Just make sure the key is in the ignition so that the "key in" signal is triggered as well.
Thank you for the response! I was thinking the same thing that pretty much all of the BCMs that would be available today would be re-mans, but wanted to confirm that.
I know the vats bypass was successful because it will start so I am going to leave the bypass in so that the VATS doesn't leave me stranded someday. I will make sure the key is in the ignition so it sees that signal.
Thanks again!







