2003 04 05 Cavalier Sunfire Salvage Yard BCM Replacement EEPROM VIN & Mileage Swap (Chevy & Pontiac)

[@int53185]

I went through this with my Grand Prix(2008). I finally called Delco tech support and they confirmed that only a new or refurbished bcm would be able to be programmed.

[@DrShock]

Yep, that's the problem. But you can still save $$ and work around it as I've shown in the video if you have the right tools and skills.

[@DrShock]

@The Edwin Manna Filez Yep, it's a question of paying way more than it should for a new or remanufactured unit and then having to have a Tech2 to program it, or saving alot less but still needing to be comfortable working with chips on a circuit board. GM could have let used BCMs be re-programmed, but they chose to prevent that.

[@boydlittou9446]

@@DrShock I'm working on a 2002 grand am Bcm is shorted. I still have a odometer reading with bcm unplugged. Can I swap the chip with a salvage yard bcm ?

[@DrShock]

@@boydlittou9446 While I have not worked on that particular BCM to tell you where the correct chip is, if you can locate it yes the same chip level approach would apply.

[@deangiorgi9889]

@@DrShock I was looking for the eprom chip clip and was wondering what software you used to read the eprom. I replaced the bcm and still have problems cause it has the wrong vin and radio issues(locked) and I can't seem to get Chevy to program it for me so unless you can do it or recommend someone who can I'm going to have to get the hardware and do it myself. I do have a bit of experience doing this as I used to send various info around the lab programming various eproms and circuits across the web in ASCII

[@limelightaquatics]

This was an incredibly informative video, thank you for taking the time to demonstrate this. Very thorough and yet no extraneous info, very to the point.

[@phaedrus2633]

Thank you. I have a 2005 Cavalier in which the BCM is causing a parasitic drain on my battery. The local mechanic I took my car to, that diagnosed the problem, is charging me $1100 to replace the BCM and then reprogram it. I've looked on the Internet and saw that the BCM from several sources cost about $140. Now, since watching this video, I can understand the high labor cost.

[@DrShock]

If the mechanic would be installing a brand new GM BCM, then it's only the Tech2 tool BCM setup part (options programming and mileage reentry), perhaps 30 - 45 minutes of billable time in addition to the time for removal and installation of the BCM. What I showed here in this video is typically _cheaper_ in how one could make use of an used BCM instead of brand new, and then transfer the mileage and programming over via its EEPROM since the Tech2 will not program an used unit.

[@Jpilgrim30]

I’ve been able to read/write these in circuit with the andromeda labs ar32a. It’s a great programming tool and lets you work in circuit where others usually fail

[@Pete-io3wy]

Do you have a video of how to install a new bcm and what that process looks like?

[@rick601a]

Have you tried using the eeprom programmer and filing the eeprom full of 0’s then use the tecII to program. It recognizes it as a new BCM

[@DrShock]

A blank EEPROM didn't work, which is all I tried. But a virgin image from a new BCM would if you had it. I suspect there's something in there when they're new, rather than it being blank.

[@rick601a]

@@DrShock that’s strange. When in radio service. If you take a junkyard XM module and zero the contents the BCM does a checksum and fills in the vin and various other bits of data. The old tech II had more flexibility as to what could be used. We would fill the service radio or components eeprom with a bank of zeros. So the tech II would do a checksum. If Tech II returned a zero check sum it would allow a learn operation any other value it would mark as not useful if vin field didn’t match. I’m shocked the edit of vin field works as there are a few error check bits that are in the eeprom to calculate the mileage as this hash of the mileage is based on the vin. The BCM i am using was from Z06 vett along with key fob navigation unit instrument panel setup. Collected from salvage. I do remember one of the senior instructors saying the Tech II preforms a check sum on devices and if any returns zero check from various fields in the eeprom the device was considered new and could be setup. Otherwise if vins didn’t match it would haunt. Older tech II software allowed for vin change in instrument panel where new updated software wouldn’t allow service centers to reuse parts.

[@DrShock]

Thanks, good info. I doubt anyone is running those old Tech2 bin files, as the model year coverage would be even less. I agree the Tech2 performs a checksum of sorts on the EEPROM contents for some modules like the BCM, this is how it flags it as locked when you try to setup an used salvage yard donor one. Yes the XM receiver will fly with a blank EEPROM (I have other videos on some XM repairs and some have commented with same), you would just lose your presets. There's no check bits on the VIN recorded in the BCM that I've come across, at least not on this low end model used on the J cars. And you can correct the hashed mileage memory locations using a mileage calculator tool like TachoSoft. But then there's also fuel security code stored for the PCM, RPO option codes, etc. So imo its just less hassle and easier (and less time) to swap the EEPROMs between the original and donor on a BCM as I ended up showing in the video. It's possible that the virgin BCM image is _nearly blank_ and might be easily recreated as this is what a reman BCM would have stored. Or it's possible that just the VIN and mileage need to be zeroed out from what you've shared. All interesting experiments I might look into at some point. Thanks for sharing.

[@godfamilycountry4211]

Awesome. Thx so much. Learned a lot. New sub now. Novice electronics guy.

[@ralphsnyder6503]

Is the bcm the reason why the cluster lights are not working

[@boydlittou9446]

Swapped bcm on a 2002 grand am With a salvage yard bcm and mileage stayed the same and pass lock relearned with no problem. Only problem was air bag module didn't see bcm because vin was not same in replacement bcm. Had no airbags but customer said airbag light was always on and didn't want to pay for programming and still have airbag issues. Customer don't care for airbags.

[@emmettturner9452]

ChipQuik should be thoroughly cleaned before reusing a component or pad that was contaminated with it. After saturating the braid I cut a fresh piece until the pads are totally flat, then I use a clean tip to flood the pads with fresh solder, clean my tip, flood again, etc and finish up with fresh braid. I also put the chip on a ceramic coaster and repeatedly flood fresh solder to the legs. …but for a chip that small I would’ve just used a K-tip (knife shape) and flowed an entire side at once to work it off the board without hot air or ChipQuik. ;) That’s a trick I often do even with much larger chips since flooding solder across the legs spreads the heat much wider than the tip alone.

[@louisbaiani6262]

How about RKE programming on these after the swap? Dealer only? Is this also stored in this eeprom?

[@patrickmcbrien9436]

If I have a 2005 equinox I have a problem with the security Locked When I 1st got it I used to go in the driver's side Shut off the lock I think it went further Cause now I got fuses 5 Dead fuses I powered it up Is Taurus running good But I think it's the body modular Looking for help

[@DrShock]

Not really something that can be diagnosed over a comment feed.

[@PearComputingDevices]

I think your a genius, I just bought a 2005 Saturn relay, supposedly 118k, not a lick of rust considering we live in the rust belt that's impressive but I noticed my turn signals don't work, meaning rapid flashing on the dash, nothing at all to the bulbs. Neither does my power seats or heated seat elements and power sliders. I am thinking this is a BCM issue, I didn't find any blown fuses. I just thought it needed a bulb or a fuse, but I am guessing it might need more? My investigation took me to your video. Seems your pretty smart about these things.

[@DrShock]

For that year Saturn, I do believe the BCM was involved in activating the turn signals. But there's also several grounds involved, the multi-function switch and harness, and the wiring to and from the BCM that would all have to be checked before going to the BCM. You'll need a 2005 Saturn service manual and its wiring schematics to work a problem like this, or subscription to an online service that provides this technical information. This video is about swapping a non-programmable BCM's EEPROM chip. Some models you could relearn them using a Tech2 scan tool. I don't know which path you would have available to you for a Saturn BCM if that turns out to be the problem though. While I once owned both a 1992 SL1 and a 1992 SL2, I haven't done any work on a Saturn for many decades and they were always a bit different than all the other GM brands. The earlier models even required a unique connector for the Tech2 scan tool than every other OBDII vehicle.

[@PearComputingDevices]

@@DrShock Thanks for your swift reply, yeah this is a Relay, similar to an Uplander or Venture for 2005 and earlier, not SL series but I am sure many of functions and thus troubleshooting is the same. Definitely a head scratcher.

[@staciwedel6585]

I am having issues with a replacement BCM for a 2002 Cadillac Seville. How do I know which one is the EEPROM that I need to edit the VIN? I have not been able to locate any helpful information.

[@DrShock]

It takes careful trial and error with a few salvage yard units to determine this, as the older chips are not numbered with a conventional part number. And I mention _a few_ because you may damage one in the course of the trial and error discovery. I'm not _yet_ familiar with the Cadillac's BCM so couldn't say. Since these years are not re-programmable for an used BCM, if I had this problem, I'd be more inclined to go for either an remanufactured or new GM OE unit (both are still sold for an 02 Caddy) and reprogram it via the Tech2 scan tool route.

[@staciwedel6585]

@@DrShock That's what I was afraid of. That is not very cheap to go that route.

[@ClarkBremer]

Doctor! That was an awesome video - I learned a lot. I was hoping you could give me some advice on a related topic. I'd like to reverse-engineer the serial protocol on the J1850 bus between the head unit and the 6-CD Changer on my 2003 Yukon. So I want to replicate that setup on my workbench. I have a salvage radio and CD changer. I used the trick 5+FWD+PWR to temporarily turn on the head-unit, but it won't recognize the changer. From this video, I'm learning that I probably need at least a BCM on my bench to get this to work? Will I need anything else that you have in the video, like the PCM or Instrument panel? And do the BCM and head unit have to have the same VIN number? Thanks so much for pointing me in the right direction. CB.

[@DrShock]

Thanks, I have done a few of these BCM and Radio related vids. This Cavalier one is probably the furthest from your Yukon technology wise ;-) But yeah, you will need a BCM in the picture to handshake the VIN lock/unlock. You should not need a PCM, at least I've never ran into that need. No other modules are needed unless they have something to _say_ in the normal usage of the CD changer. For example, if there is still a separate cassette unit on that year that might need to be there too (but I think those ended in 2000). Check out the video I've done on the Chevy Cobalt Radio unlocking, that's probably more similar than this Cavalier setup. Sounds like an interesting project, GL.

[@ClarkBremer]

@@DrShock Thanks for the quick reply, Doc! That's exactly the info I needed. A follow-up question, if you don't mind: The BCM and the Head unit will need to have the same VIN. I watched your video on how to change the VIN on the head unit. That seems easier than changing the VIN on the BCM, since it needs to be removed first as shown in this video. Is the VIN on the BCM going to be printed on the outside? Or will I have to remove it anyway, just to read the VIN from it?

[@DrShock]

Some radio models also have to have the EEPROM chip removed from the circuit board in order to read/write them. It depends on whether the circuit is designed where the power from the programmer ends up powering up other chips on the board. If it does, you get conflicts that require removing the chip from the board. So _your mileage_ so to speak can vary GM supplier to GM supplier. The VIN will not be printed on the BCM, but it's easy enough to note when you pull the module from the salvage yard donor right. If you buy an used BCM on eBay, just be sure to only buy one where the seller includes the donor cars VIN in the listing.

[@ClarkBremer]

@@DrShock Awesome, thanks again! Looking on Ebay: SO MANY DIFFERENT PART NUMBERS all claiming to be compatible. Are they all really going work with this head unit? The head unit is def the same as the one in my Yukon. Single CD with cassette.

[@DrShock]

For what you're looking to do its imperative that the parts come from the exact same model year, and have the exact same GM part numbers on them. When I was doing reverse engineering for the Arduino radio unlock video I found that radios that looked the same but had different numbers had actually used different protocol timings on the bus. With what you're doing you have to keep in mind GM didn't attempt to test for the reuse of modules across brands. GM - many suppliers, multiple designs. ;-) If I were doing your project, I'd hit up my local LKQ type pull your own parts salvage yard to get a matched set of what I needed.

[@gerardoduenas5815]

Hi, nice video. A few days ago I have to replace my Chevrolet sonic RS BCM. I bought an use unit, because we were looking for the same part. After replace and reprograming the BCM, I lost some function, lights in the cluster such as control tracción off, Cruze control, light indicator to shift manual transmission. Should I reprogram again the BCM ? Thanks

[@DrShock]

Thanks, but this one is for the Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire BCM. The Chevy Sonic version I did here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZLIq4Gepp1shLs Typically you cannot reprogram an used BCM for most GM models, hence these videos to address the problem at the chip level. You could try using SPS2 again to redo the calibration, but I suspect this is another model that where SPS/SPS2 will not overwrite an used module anymore. The main things missing with going with an used module are the steps in the Techline Connect flow for a new BCM where it asks you to confirm certain options on the vehicle to set those up, this is usually a one time thing and something like cruise control yes/no. And the second one is the step where it asks you about the mileage (typically the mileage is stored in both the BCM and the instrument cluster but only one of them will be the master controller of its accuracy).

[@edbaker4475]

I have a 2003 cavalier, I tried swapping the eprom to two different bcms I bought off ebay. Both show locked and no mileage. I put the chip back on old circuit and it reads mileage but my cluster will fail intermittently along with radio. Part numbers are the same, do they have to be from the same make model and year?

[@DrShock]

You need to keep the GM/Delphi part number the same on both BCMs in order to swap the EEPROM chip between the original and replacement. It does not need to be the same model year though. There are only two types of BCMs with the J-body cars, one with keyless entry and one without. They are _not_ interchangeable. The instrument cluster on these models does not separately track the mileage. But it does compare that the mileage it last read from the BCM is the same.

[@DARIOcaptain]

Hello, do you happen to know how to enable the horn chirp when unlocking the car? It beeps when I lock it but I also read in the manual that the dealer could programm it to beep when unlocking. '03 Sunfire

[@DrShock]

Yes, there is a horn chirp in the BCM personalization menu for both unlock and lock (at least according to the J-Body service manual for 2003 - 2005). You would need a Tech2 scan tool, or the Tech2Win emulator for Windows and a J2534 interface module to access it though. Dealership level tooling. If you end up going to the dealer tell them you want them to access BCM personalization under the special functions menu and enable Remote Function Activation (RFA) audible feedback for BOTH lock and unlock. Not just lock.

[@DARIOcaptain]

@@DrShock Thank you so much for the answer. I think I can actually get my hands on the Tech2Win emulator, will a generic J2534 cable work with it? Or do I need some specific one? I wanted to check what's causing the service wrench light to illuminate with it.

[@DrShock]

You'll find Tech2Win at www.acdelcotds.com which should point out the interface adapters that GM supports there.

[@timrobbins2519]

I swapped in a junkyard bcm(same I'd as my old) but the car wouldn't start because the vin was different in my PCM. So I swapped the PCM from the same donor car from the junkyard. I own a 2004 Grand am gt and I found out later that the donor car was an se version. So I want my PCM in there but scared to solder. So there's an app called PCM hammer that can change vins on pcms. If I change the vin to the matching vin on the donor bcm...wouldn't this get my car to start?

[@DrShock]

Unlikely, the VIN update alone is not going to be enough. What's going to prevent starting is mostly the security _password_ between the modules. This would have to be reconfigured/relearned as well to get past the crank/no start condition that the security light on the dash being on will cause. You will also need to reprogram the original mileage for the odometer to be in compliance with federal law. The reason for the video was, of course, to address those GM BCM models like the J-bodies that cannot have this kind of data reprogrammed using the GM Tech2 scan tool. To install an used salvage yard donor BCM on such models, you have to work at the circuit board level.

[@kylequelch1250]

Have a demolition derby car. This is now happened to me and all other cavalier owners. Security not lighting up on dash at all starts runs 2 seconds then dies. Could you replace radio, bcm, pcm and key from a donor car. No one car figure out the problem and also a derby car any help is appreciated.

[@DrShock]

While I've never attempted such drastic surgery, imo you could transfer all of those modules, if you moved them *all* as a set, since they are all VIN and security code encoded the same. A local LKQ salvage yard would probably provide all of these up rather inexpensively. Given the cars purpose, it doesn't seem like it would matter that it's not the correct VIN anymore. ;-) Just be sure the GM/Delphi part numbers of all the modules are kept the same between both donor and patient vehicles. Chances for success are probably higher if you keep them within the same model year range. You can't mix the two types of BCMs found on these vehicles, nor do you want to mix manual and automatic programming PCM wise. Curious to see how it turns out.

[@derekreinhardt7818]

Hello I have a 2004 cavalier ls sport with keyless entry the battery was bad I jumped it and went to Sam's club purchased a new battery they installed it when I went to leave 1st thing I noticed was they keypad didn't unlock the doors 2nd when I opened the door the hor was blowing and the radio says locked car wouldn't crank either so we called the dealership they told me how to start it but the radio is still locked airbag lights and service engine lights are on . I went to the dealership and they said the bcm needed to be reprogram they tried and couldn't why did this happen and what should I do to fix it ? Just buy a new BCM and have the dealership reprogram?

[@DrShock]

Very odd that this all started just from replacing the battery. These kinds of problems usually do not appear suddenly. But if the radio says locked, and nothing else was changed/replaced that does seem to implicate the BCM. You cannot reprogram an used one, but I believe that you can still buy a remanufactured one from ACDelco and have it programmed. The dealer would be the most expensive choice for that repair, you might call around to some independent shops and see if they are able to program a replacement BCM for the Cavalier.

[@derekreinhardt7818]

Ok thanks I also need to add that the Odometer shows 00 also when this happened is there anyway I can at least unlock the radio? Also when I went to the dealership to have it reprogram the bcm they said they couldn't get it to reprogram so I told them to stop the repair afraid they would run up the bill and not be able to fix it the new part is at Amazon for 155.00 usd. Should I get this and retry ? The alrm also come on everytime you open the door until you put the key in the ignition and turn on.

[@DrShock]

What you are describing could be an electrical problem (bad grounding for example due to age/corrosion of the harnesses), and you could be out the BCM cost and still not have it repaired. You really need to diagnose the root cause for these problems first. I'd recommend you hire someone with some experience with older GM cars, and electrical problems, to first diagnose the root cause rather than firing the parts cannon at it. If it does turn out to be the BCM, you'll have to pay someone to program it as well so you might try and choose someone who could handle both tracking down a wiring problem, or replacing and reprogramming the BCM. Whichever it ended up being.

[@kolbyj3835]

Hey, so i have a 1999 grand am with a security light on which runs briefly then dies and a seemingly completely busted BCM (no lights inside, no trunk release, no door locks) I took out the BCM and there is a capacitor blown and damage to the board. If I just switch the EEPROM to another salvage 99 grand am board will the accessories work plug in play afterwards or do i need to do additional programming with a Tech2? I guess it depends on the car donor board but not sure.

[@DrShock]

If you get a donor BCM that has the exact same GM part number as your original, then just swapping the EEPROM chip is the full extent of the repair. Nothing more to do. But the GM part numbers on the white label of the BCM have to match to insure the circuitry is the same.

[@kolbyj3835]

@@DrShock thank you. I'm actually a bit wary of just transplanting straight up the eeprom in case I damage it. I'd like to be able to dump the contents into a bin file like you did here as a backup. Unfortunately I'm not able to identity what my eeprom chip is exactly. All it says on it is "Thailand" then three numbers from top to bottom: 06632 9828n 5198023. Also it's actually a 1999 Alero, but I think they are the same car as the grand am. It's a Delco BCM with #09360629

[@DrShock]

You may have to desolder the chip to even read it. I'm not familiar with that BCM number, but more often than not an in-circuit read will not work. But certainly you can copy the original contents and write to the replacements chip instead. If you're not experienced doing this, just be sure to become familiar with pin 1 orientation and how the programmer and its software work. You might pick up a 24XXX EEPROM to experiment with.

[@kolbyj3835]

@@DrShock I've done some pcb soldering before, it seems my eeprom is through hole design. I think i'm just going to be impatient and swap it instead of waiting for my programmer to come. I'll just try be really careful with the heat lol.

[@kolbyj3835]

@@DrShock I ended up figuring the whole issue out today. when i plugged in the salvage yard BCM ( i hadn't transferred the eeprom yet, i just wanted to see if the mileage would change) nothing happened. It was like I never swapped BCMs at all the Odometer remained on the original mileage. Then I decided to repair the old BCM by replacing the capacitor and plugged it in. Nothing happened again. I decided to check the power to the BCM through the two fuse output pins on the pink connector. Turns out one was getting 12v but the other was not. I checked the fuse for the one getting 0v and it turned out to be blown 🤣. I had checked that fuse earlier in my BCM troubles and it seemed okay but i guess it failed later on. I swapped out the blown fuse with my hazard fuse, and the door chimes started right up and the dome lights and locks were working. Then I went through the security relearn procedure and my car started and stayed running with no issues.

[@waltercastro2015]

By any chance do you know for a 2002 dakota bcm memory chip is located or tag# of the chip. I will like to do the same process.

[@DrShock]

I only work with GM electronics so I wouldn't have any technical info on a Dodge.

[@nino258]

This help me out alot. Is a 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix similar?

[@DrShock]

All of the BCMs of this era will have the same approach, an EEPROM containing the vehicle VIN and configuration, and mileage. But the Grand Prix design will look different than what I've shown here, and the chip will be located in a different spot. You might check out the other BCM videos I have and see how they vary model to model before you open yours up to help.

[@nino258]

So none of the videos you have showed anything similar to my BCM. This model chips markings are hard to make out. Should do a video on this type of bcm.

[@t.c.eleazar8259]

Can you please give me some directions on what to swap for a 2008 cobalt bcm from the salvage yard? Thanks in advance

[@DrShock]

Sure, the BCM on a Cobalt or G5 is located on the passenger side of the center console, behind a removable trim panel. It also doubles as the fuse center. You can see views of this in this other video of mine here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rom3pH6PidVoac0 You'll want to pull from the _exact_ same year and model. So if you have an 2008 LS, you pull from a 2008 LS. Verify the part numbers are exactly the same. The EEPROM for these models that you will need to swap on the board has the number 1001378 silk screened on it. I believe it is a 95080 type EEPROM.

[@t.c.eleazar8259]

@@DrShock thank You very much

[@jc9930]

I have a customer's 2001 Buick Regal BCM that GM says is discontinued and want to know if I can use a used one and have my mobile programming guy come program it? He has a tech 2 but also a Jbox pass through. If not can I just swap the EEPROM from the old to the replacement??? Thanks

[@DrShock]

GM made it where the Tech2 will show as _locked_ with an used BCM as originally they were all read-only one time use modules and so wouldn't let you update anything, that was one of the reasons for doing this video. You may be able to get a remanufactured one on rockauto.com, I'd check there first. A reman BCM is an used module that just has the eeprom flashed with the contents of a brand new one so looks like that to a Tech2 so you can set it up as usual. When the Tech2 sets up a new BCM, it sets the VIN and PCM security pin code for the fuel approval, as well as asking the tech to input the mileage to set it to. But reman or swapping EEPROMs manually would be the only two options imo if its discontinued now by GM.

[@jeffprestage3821]

Where do you get the plugs to make the benchtop harness

[@DrShock]

Pull your own parts style salvage yard such as an LKQ PYP location.

[@jeffprestage3821]

I thought that might be the answer. Are those plugs common to many GM cars or do I need to look for ones specific to the car I'm working on (04-06 GTO)

[@DrShock]

They will vary by vehicle model, but may be shared across brands that have the same model (like between a Chevrolet and GMC truck).

[@jeffprestage3821]

Love the videos, and thanks heaps for the fast replys to my newbie questions. Looks like I have my work cut out for me rooting around junk yards for connectors. Cheers.

[@SimphiweCollin-es3to]

How do you know that the Aprom is not dead from the old one?

[@DrShock]

You'll have to read the contents with an EEPROM programmer first. Typically if these chips fail they will read nothing, or all garbage. But they rarely fail, it's usually some other component(s) on the circuit board that fail, or damage to the circuit board that does in a BCM.

[@mightyloaf]

this is some really good information, but if i were to switch out both the pcm and the bcm from the same salvage yard car, would that work out good?

[@DrShock]

I haven't attempted this, but I suspect it depends on the year, for the old years this video covers you would also need the matching ignition key/cylinder to avoid starting issues (security code / fuel cutoff feature) unless you do a relearn on that part. And it would obviously need to be a PCM from the same make, model, year, and powertrain setup to avoid problems there. Then you would still have the wrong VIN for the vehicle, but the rest (except the radio which will be VIN locked by doing this unless you also pull that) should be ok. But newer vehicles than this video covers, it's less likely to work as there are more modules in the vehicle that can have VIN/mileage/security info encoded.

[@mightyloaf]

@@DrShock it would be a 2001 pontiac sunfire, which everything is nearly identical to the set up from the cavalier you used

[@louisbaiani6262]

Has anyone tried comparing locations of the vin and mileage off both styles of BCM to see if they are the same?

[@mikebond9713]

How do I identify which is the EEPROM on my BCM

[@DrShock]

That's shown at 10:10 in the video. If you don't have this specific BCM, then this video isn't going to help you. Each model is unique, and they use several different types of chips across them. I have a few other BCM videos that may be more applicable to what you're looking for. But if not, it's just trial and error approach wise.

[@chuckvoss9344]

Question: If you clear all the information on the EPROM, then reinstall it on the board will the module look like a new factory board? Will the Tech2 be able to program the board? Or is there more hidden information on the board to prevent that? Thank you. Great video.

[@DrShock]

There's no documentation on what you would have to clear, you could compare a _virgin_ EEPROM out of a brand new one to determine this though. What remanufacturing centers do is just re-program the used units EEPROM with the virgin image to put it back where the Tech2 will see that it is not used.

[@emmettturner9452]

Can you copy a virgin EEPROM from a new/reman unit to a salvage unit and then use Tech2? Guess you’d need a virgin EEPROM dump from someone and hope that there is no eFuse or other method for pairing/marrying the virgin EEPROM.

[@DrShock]

Yeah you could reprogram an used BCM with a virgin image from a brand new BCM. That's basically what is done during the OEM remanufacturing process where ACDelco would recycle the modules for resale. The hard part is coming across that virgin image.

[@MILO20121]

Thx u thx u can u show how u changed the programmer to automotive use 5v pls thxs

[@DrShock]

Sure, it's already linked into this video by KZbin. Just tap the white circle with the _i_ in the middle, in the upper right while watching this vid and select the CH341A mod video from the list.

[@christycarter75]

Hey bud nice video would this prom swap be the same or similar for a 2004 Pontiac gto bcm?

[@DrShock]

Sunfire yes, gto idk.

[@johnwalz5970]

I'm having severe security issues with my 2001 Monte Carlo. If I were to take a PCM, BCM, Radio, and ignition switch off of a salvage vehicle (assuming all these components are good on the salvage vehicle) and install them into my vehicle, would it solve my problem? Are there other components that I would have to worry about being programmed? I acquired this vehicle from a friend with security issues, I know there was troubleshooting and components replaced but don't know what has actually been done. There are multiple PCMs and BCMs that came with the vehicle. Thank you for any help that you can provide!

[@DrShock]

If it's a factory original, the radio isn't going to be part of the vehicle theft security circuit, though it has it's own lock codes (Theftlock) for 2001. So you don't need that, though the radio may be locked all on it's own it's got nothing to do with the vehicle. That security lamp being on (with codes an OBD code reader could pull) is going to be related to the BCM typically, such as when someone installs an used one. Since you cannot just install an used BCM because it's got the wrong VIN, wrong mileage, and in this case the wrong fuel unlock information for the PCM. Some used BCMs can be reprogrammed by the a shop with the right tools, some can't and the only option is buying a new/remanufactured one. The answer to your question is too complex for a comment response. Someone would really have to eyeball the situation you have got going there, the part numbers of the modules you have. You need to get the vehicle back to the original PCM and original BCM it was made with first. Then debug the original problem to see what the true fault really is rather than throwing parts at it. That approach just doesn't work with cars past the 1990s, the electronics and computer controls are too deeply ingrained.

[@johnwalz5970]

@@DrShock Thank you very much for your response! The previous owner and I hashed out a number of things yesterday, I believe that we have identified the original PCM that came with vehicle, the original BCM had been diagnosed as bad with the mechanic that they used. He told them that they would have to get a new one and have the dealership flash it at a cost of $500+, which is the reason that I got the vehicle, it wasn't worth the $500. In addition to the bad BCM, the ignition switch was bad, not the PassLock module but the cylinder itself. At some point another friend tried to repair the vehicle by taking the PCM, BCM and ignition from a salvage vehicle at the junk yard, which is why there were multiple components that came with the car. Anyway, when i received that car it ran intermittently but was never dependable until it failed completely. After viewing your video yesterday I plugged in each of the BCMs that I have and noticed that there is NO odometer reading on each of them and that the radio does not reflect that it is Locked. I found this curious and was hoping that you could comment on it. Going back to the original question though, I can get all of the parts at the 'you pick' junk yard for roughly $50 total, is it worth trying to replace the PCM, BCM & ignition switch or is it a waste of time? If these three components are essentially a 'closed' system as far as VIN security, and assuming all other variables match (engine, transmission, sensors, options, etc..), do you think it would work? I won't spend the $500+ for a BCM but I hate to junk the car since it does have a good drivetrain and clean body, I would bet the $50 and a couple of hours of time if it were a feasible solution. Thank you

[@DrShock]

So it is true that you cannot plug and play computer modules. They have to be _programmed_ and some like the BCM, can only be programmed once. So I do this kind of repair all the time, in terms of salvage yard modules, but I have the tools to make that possible. This is a more challenging DIY job because of the tooling investment. What I would suggest you do is, if you are certain it's one of your confirmed diagnosis problems, is replace the ignition lock cylinder first. With the factory original PCM and BCM installed (the salvage yard modules should all have paint pen markings on them for handling returns btw). Then I would address the original BCM that was diagnosed by a _professional_ as defective. You can order a *pre-programmed* remanufactured BCM from Cardone by suppling your VIN (tells them everything they need to setup your RPO options as well) so that you don't need the $500 scan tool charge - www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=1516226&cc=1368378&jsn=979 The reason for doing the ignition lock cylinder first, is in case it has any affect on the theft relearn step with the new BCM. The lock cylinder has a magnet attached that is part of the engagement of the theft system, and if it's damaged or missing that's an additional time waster. The total parts cost of this repair route is going to be somewhere south of $210. If that's still too much for the repair budget, I'd just call your local LKQ salvage to scrap the vehicle and get the price they would offer for it as-is.

[@johnwalz5970]

@@DrShock Thank you for your help! Much appreciated!

[@pashafixesthings]

Hey! I wonder if I just wipe clean the EEPROM, would it allow me to set it up for the car using the Tech2?

[@DrShock]

It couldn't be blank, that would just error out all over the place. But you could obtain a _virgin_ EEPROM image, which would be a copy of what a brand new BCM has in it and write that. This is what companies doing BCM remanufacturing do. Having that virgin image lets the Tech2 see it as brand new and do the _write once_ setup to it and also lets you manually enter the correct mileage. The folks who do this for a fee buy a new BCM, just to harvest the virgin image. Cost of doing business an all.

[@pashafixesthings]

@@DrShock Thanks for a quick responce, mate. I am very tempted to sacrifice $250 and buy a brand new BCM from rockauto and get a copy of it's EEPROM memory, so I will be able to experiment with it without a fear of bricking it.

[@swishyyyyy]

Are you able to just copy the file of the original and then just paste it to the junkyard module?

[@DrShock]

Absolutely, you can either transfer the actual EEPROM chip from the circuit board as I showed, or just copy the memory contents from the original BCM's EEPROM chip and overwrite the contents of the replacement BCM's EEPROM chip with that saved file. How you do that varies depending on the EEPROM programmer software you use of course.

[@swishyyyyy]

@@DrShock great then that should solve having to get special software to program mileage correctly. Thanks!

[@DrShock]

Just make sure both BCMs have the _exact_ same GM part number on the label when using this technique.

[@swishyyyyy]

@@DrShock will do thanks

[@jameseaton9591]

I recently had a salvage bcm unit installed in my 2006 Hummer H3. It took my mileage from 91k up to 229k. After paying the local GM dealer $550 to program the salvage unit. They never took th information from my existing bcm with correct mileage. Can the original be put back in and get my original mileage back or does the 2006 h3 store mileage on the instrument cluster and the dealer overwrote my original mileage. The original bcm is functional except for not giving full headlight functionality. Thanks in advance.

[@DrShock]

Some vehicles only store the mileage in the BCM, like the Cavalier/Sunfire type this video covers. Others may also store it in the instrument cluster module. I'm not familiar with the Hummer setup so couldn't say. But when the dealer did the programming, there would have been a question to input the original mileage if it were a new BCM. That's common across all GM vehicles. When doing an used BCM, there's often hurdles added by GM to prevent that sort of thing (they want you to buy a new module) using their scan tooling, and depending on the tech you get some can work around them, some cannot. If it were me, I'd take it back to highlight the mileage problem (if you still have the original BCM or even the original invoice showing the mileage you brought the truck in with) and insist they correct it given that it will devalue the truck being so much higher. If it were closer to 100K I'd say let it go right.

[@jameseaton9591]

@@DrShock tmThanks Doc. Wise advice. I have another question. Which brand gm mdi did you go with? I tried out a VXDIAG VCX Nano which was a huge mistake. I couldn't get the software to load so could never try out the unit. Thanks in advance.

[@DrShock]

@@jameseaton9591 I have had a Chinese clone MDI unit for several years now that's still going great. I did a vid on that one here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/povJiairr7SFkNE The high quality clones, the ones that are not _cost reduced_ by dropping the WiFi circuitry have worked well for me. 99.99% compatible with ACDelcoTDS. I've yet to find anything problematic with either SPS or GDS2 (using the paid version not the pirated ones some sellers include on an HDD).

[@christophervasquez3324]

When changing the chip from the BCM do you have to install it exactly same way it was taking out? or can it be installed wrong?

[@DrShock]

Yes it has to be exactly the same as the pins on the chip provide different circuit functions (power, ground, data in, data out, etc). This is why I showed some of this under a microscope where you could see the writing on the chip for the Delphi number for identification as well as the pin 1 orientation when soldering.

[@TheMrmmkkpro]

Would you do this for someone? For cash of course. Nice work. I have a 2005 Saturn ion has a no crank , no start and gauges not working. I think I have narrowed it down to bcm. Have a replacement ( salvage yard ) on the way. I would like to hire you , thanks.👍👍

[@DrShock]

Sorry, no I am not a business.

[@TheMrmmkkpro]

@@DrShock Thanks for your reply , great video. 👍🏁

[@SB_602]

Is this the same for the 2002 Chevy malibu

[@DrShock]

The particular modules covered in this video are unique to the Cavalier and Sunfire models. But the technique would be similar.

[@bennylemma5923]

Brand new BCM’s come with no VIN in them correct ? If I plug a compatible GM radio to it it shouldn’t say “Locked” ?

[@DrShock]

Brand new GM BCMs have no VIN until setup with a scan tool correct. But until setup the radio could still say locked because it does have a VIN and cannot reconcile that against the BCM who does not have _that_ VIN. Once the new BCM is setup the locked message on the radio should clear (because the BCM will learn the VIN the radio already has from the PCM who is the primary source of VIN truth during that step).

[@Car-Radio-Bulbs]

@@DrShock What if the radio you plug in has had the vin removed would it work then?

[@DrShock]

When they get remanufactured, the memory locations for the VIN are reset. Typically by writing 0xFF to those locations. If that’s done, it’s looks brand new to the BCM so no lock.

[@Car-Radio-Bulbs]

@@DrShock Thanks for answering my question. I have one more question if I clear out the vin in the BCM and radio do I just put all 0's in I don't understand what you mean by 0xFF.

[@DrShock]

The values input into an EEPROM programmer are in hexadecimal, not decimal. So it’s not 0s that blank but Fs. Be sure you learn the basics before you work on a BCM. You could easily brick the unit entering incorrect or unexpected content.

[@kurtiscal3msetccdwell618]

Say a car is missing it's BCM or ETACS ECU what is the course of action to getting one if you have no part number to go by? I have an 08 Lancer de and have no idea how to find a compatiable unit. Help please.

[@DrShock]

Take your VIN to the local Mitsubishi dealer and they can hook you up with a part number.

[@kurtiscal3msetccdwell618]

@@DrShock Well that's a funny story as I am actually a Mitsubishi Technician and I work at a Mitsubishi dealership and it's proven quite the challenge to find one thru the parts department. However after some research I did find the new updated correct part number and my buddy said he'll show me how to code it when the one I ordered from Ebay arrives.

[@bobmead8184]

You made great videos on BCM and PCM swaps. Are you going to make one on IPC swap?

[@DrShock]

There's really nothing to the J-car (Cavalier and Sunfire) instrument panel cluster swaps, everything is stored on the BCM for these models. They don't have any VIN or such storage chip on them. If I did a video on this it would probably be on a Cobalt, Cruze, or Sonic which have a eeprom device in the IPC.

[@bobmead8184]

@@DrShock Thank you! When I turn the ignition on, a few tell tale lights don't come on, particularly the anti-theft light. The service manual says that this means that IPC is bad and needs to be replaced. Do you believe this is true, of this can be caused by something external, like some shorts or low battery voltage, bad ground? Another issue is the battery voltage coming to passlock chip is 9.50 volts. I have checked the 2 fuses that feed IPC and they both show 12.80 volts. Again, do you suppose IPC is definitely bad or there could be something else? While waiting for Tech 2 scanner to arrive, I am just poking around the car and getting familiar with the components and the wiring.

[@DrShock]

Is this a Cavalier?

[@bobmead8184]

@@DrShock It's a 97 sunfire.

[@bobmead8184]

@@DrShock I checked the service manual and it shows that B+ comes to passlock directly from IPC module and I assume it should always be the same as the battery voltage. What happens is different. I disconnect passlock connector and measure the voltage between the ground and b+ on IPC side. First it shows about 2.4v and then it quickly climes to about 5.5v. I take the voltmeter lead off and then connect it again. Sometimes the voltage jumps to 10.40, if the battery is 12.40v (to 9.5 if the battery is 11.5v), but sometimes stays at 5.5v of so. When I wiggle the wires nothing happens, so it does not look like wiring issue. According to the manual there is nothing else connected to B+ lead of IPC that goes to passlock and based on the voltage behavior it does look like there is something wrong inside IPC. I am tempted to remove IPC from the car, connect 12v to it and check the voltage on the passlock 12v pin.

[@godfamilycountry4211]

Can you do this swap on a 2000 bcm? Thx

[@DrShock]

I haven't tried that myself, but I would expect it to be very similar especially if it's still a J-car for 2000. Usually going backwards in time (model year wise) things are going to be the same or even easier than this video with GMs tech. But going forward past 2005 it gets progressively more difficult.

[@cadillacwrench]

So you cant reflash the BCM using SPS with the old Vin# and then change the mileage with a Tech2 or MDI

[@DrShock]

No, it's a common misconception for these years that you can do that for an _used_ BCM. But GM didn't allow it, as the video illustrates.

[@cadillacwrench]

@@DrShock I remember the 1st time I replaced a BCM in a corvette. And I was in Hurry and forgot to put the mileage in . Mind you it was a fairly new car under warranty. So the mileage was reset to 0 and the customer got all pissed off cause i didnt program the mileage into it... If it was my car i would of been like cool looks like ive got some driving to do.. lol

[@cadillacwrench]

@@DrShock I do remember swapping a used BCM into a vehicle that the mileage was stored in the BCM and Just tricking SPS programming by clicking on replacing and programming module instead of reprogramming module. And being able to reset the mileage.

[@DrShock]

Sure, there are many BCM models from Delphi. The J-bodies in the video do not have SPS support for the BCM (the A-body Cobalt/G5 didn't have it either) and use the Tech2 directly to set them up. Newer vehicles also store mileage in the instrument cluster module as well whereas the J-bodies do not do that either. For the J-body years I'm covering in the video, it's just not possible for what you're suggesting. Now I will say that while the Tech2 is programmed to check for a particular EEPROM checksum and reports it as locked on these BCMs if it's not the virgin parts counter version contents, there is one additional solution. While I don't have the particular EEPROM image(s) handy to show this additional technique, another solution is write the EEPROM contents from a brand new BCM of the exact same GM part number to the used one and tada - it looks unlocked and new to the Tech2 so you just run New BCM Setup as usual and will be prompted for the mileage and it will populate the VIN automatically.

[@alexanderschwartz4235]

I need a new BCM for my 2004 Cavalier but can't find any for sale. I have a junkyard BCM (with antenna for keyless) but my original did not have keyless. I am not skilled enough to swap chips on the board. Is there anybody who does this for a fee?

[@DrShock]

There's a link in the description for eBay, just filter by _new_ and you'll see several for sale. Rockauto is another source for new BCMs for this model.

[@augusttjoshua5003]

I did the same proses but still did not start

[@DrShock]

It is _rare_ for a BCM to require replacement on these models. If you either transferred over the original EEPROM, or manually edited the memory contents for VIN _and_ using TachoSoft to give you the unencrypted values for mileage and security codes you will end up with an exact clone. Presuming you also made sure the BCM part numbers are an _exact_ match. When working at the board level, you cannot use _interchangeable_ numbers for parts. Also did you use the GM service manual diagnostic tree in order to _conclusively_ determine a BCM replacement was required?

[@ewaltsauto]

could you just erase the eeprom and program it with the tech2

[@DrShock]

A new BCM, or a remanufactured one, isn't completely blank. There are some starting values in there that may be required, part of a _virgin_ EEPROM image. I suppose you could experiment around and find out a zero out memory area combination that might work, but it's likely faster to just swap the chips and move onto the next repair job.

[@ewaltsauto]

@@DrShock think I'll buy a virgin one and pull the data and try to burn it to another and see what happens

[@DrShock]

That will work just fine, Tech2 will think it's brand new (reman) and set it up as expected. That's the approach I take when I have access to a virgin image.

[@robertbrown1515]

Hello I have a 2016 GMC terrain SLE my rear right passenger turning signal light an brake lights do not work dose the BCM have anything to do with that

[@dianahernandez8789]

I test all both remote one still new with new battery you think is the part from your video

[@dianahernandez8789]

My door lock only work went you lock it but only open drive door but the other doors no unlocked only works went you lock it all doors with the remote only driver unlocked the other not but went you press the lock button all doors lock same time only the unlocked that unlocked driver side

[@DrShock]

Possibly. But typically if the Cavalier/Sunfire BCM w/RKE had an issue, such as a failed internal power relay on the PCB, you would _not_ be able to unlock _any_ doors. Lock would work, but unlock would not. Basically all or nothing for each function. You're describing that lock works for all doors (I presume this is a four door sedan model you have), but unlock only works for the drivers door out of the four doors. This is something that would require further electrical diagnosis to confirm root cause. A BCM very rarely fails on these models.

[@dianahernandez8789]

Yes went you press the unlocked 1 time open the driver second time should open the other doors but when you press lock button all doors lock just the driver open went press unlocked one time second time press the other doors but not. The trunk door and panic work

[@dianahernandez8789]

I think some time relay on board fail on the unlocked for the other doors the driver always work. The power switch on the inside for both doors for unlock an lock work fine. Just the problem is on the remote control pressing the unlocked bottom

[@malikkarim9892]

Hi