clinton984
01-17-2007, 01:54 PM
The windshield wipers every now and then stop working on my girls 96 or sometimes they go on out of random.
Also the same for the headlights. You have to flicker the switch for the regulars to work (and they might die after two minutes) or just drive with the high beams on (risky with cops around).
Bad switch? How and where would I get to the switch and cost to replace if applicable?
kurts2
01-17-2007, 02:31 PM
Are you saying the WW come on by themselves with the switch off? Are there anymore specifics about there malfunctioning time?(ie the mode (intermintant, slow, high), motor runs slow at all speeds, high only,inop at slow ect)Did the lights and wipper issues start around the same time? It sounds like your BCM may be acting up.
kurts2
01-17-2007, 02:48 PM
One last thought pertaining to the lights (this is based on my 97 and it is prob. the same for your 96). The BCM gets a signal from the headlight switch when it's on to turn on the radio backlight and to the dimmer switch. If these items are still functioning when the headlights go out, the switch is still on, and you may have a bad ground.
clinton984
01-17-2007, 05:35 PM
Whats the BCM and where is it?
Thanks.
kurts2
01-17-2007, 08:09 PM
The BCM is the body control module (theres a computer for everything now adays!) The below exerpt is from the 2nd gen service manual, my lists the local a bit diffrent but for ease I cut and past this. mine (97) is remove the rt end cover (plastic part visible with the right door open). remove rt end cowl side trim pnl and pull carpet back exposing the dash liner, cut on preforated dots and pull back the liner. This is where the unit is.
BODY CONTROL MODULEDESCRIPTIONThe Body Control Module (BCM) is concealedbelow the driver side end of the instrument panel inthe passenger compartment, where it is secured tothe dash panel side of the Junction Block (JB).The BCM utilizes integrated circuitry and informationcarried on the Programmable CommunicationsInterface (PCI) data bus network along with manyhard wired inputs to monitor many sensor andswitch inputs throughout the vehicle. In response tothose inputs, the internal circuitry and programmingof the BCM allow it to control and integrate manyelectronic functions and features of the vehiclethrough both hard wired outputs and the transmissionof electronic message outputs to other electronicmodules in the vehicle over the PCI data bus.OPERATIONThe Body Control Module (BCM) is designed tocontrol and integrate many of the electronic featuresand functions of the vehicle. The microprocessorbasedBCM hardware and software monitors manyhard wired switch and sensor inputs as well as thosethe vehicle through its communication over the PCIdata bus network. The internal programming and allof these inputs allow the BCM microprocessor todetermine the tasks it needs to perform and theirpriorities, as well as both the standard and optionalfeatures that it should provide. The BCM programmingthen performs those tasks and provides thosefeatures through both PCI data bus communicationwith other electronic modules and through hardwired low current outputs to a number of relays.These relays provide the BCM with the ability tocontrol numerous high current accessory systems inthe vehicle.The BCM monitors its own internal circuitry aswell as many of its input and output circuits, andwill store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in electronicmemory for any failure it detects. These DTCscan be retrieved and diagnosed using a DRBIIIt scantool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.REMOVAL(1) Remove the Junction Block/BCM from the vehicle.Refer to Power Distribution Systems, JunctionBlock, Removal and Installation.(2) Remove the four BCM attaching screws fromthe Junction Block.(3) Disconnect BCM from the Junction Block.NOTE: The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) module isattached to the BCM with three screws. This mustbe transferred (if equipped) to the new BCM.NOTE: If the BCM is replaced, the Vehicle Theft /Security System (VTSS (if equipped) must beenabled in the new BCM via the DRB lllT scan toolin order to start the vehicle.INSTALLATION(1) Connect the BCM to the Junction Block.(2) Install the four BCM attaching screws to theJunction Block.(3) Install the Junction Block/BCM into the vehicle.Refer to Power Distribution Systems, JunctionBlock, Removal and Installation.