Table of Contents
What are the symptoms of a bad powertrain control module?
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Engine Control Module (ECM)
- Check Engine Light Turns On.
- Engine Stalling or Misfiring.
- Engine Performance Issues.
- Car Not Starting.
- Poor Fuel Economy.
What happens if you have a bad powertrain control module?
The PCM controls your vehicle’s fuel and emissions system. If your PCM is not functioning properly, your car may fail its emissions test, emit too much smoke, emit colored exhaust (white, blue or black, depending on the issue) and may smell like fuel.
Is a powertrain control module the same as an engine control module?
ECMs (Engine Control Module) and PCMs (Powertrain Control Module) are used in the same parts of the engine: the computing module. The main difference between the two is that the ECM controls specific parts of the engine, regulating and sending commands.
What does the powertrain control module do?
The powertrain control module, aka PCM, is your vehicle’s brain. It manages the engine, transmission and other systems based on information it receives from various sensors around the vehicle.
What causes powertrain control module failure?
PCMs typically fail for one of two reasons: voltage overloads (often due to a short in a solenoid or actuator circuit) or environmental factors (corrosion, thermal stress or vibration). Thermal stress and vibration can form microcracks in circuit boards (which are repairable).
How much does it cost to replace powertrain control module?
Powertrain Control Module Replacement Cost – RepairPal Estimate. Labor costs are estimated between $74 and $94 while parts are priced between $839 and $893. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What problems can a bad BCM cause?
A malfunctioning BCM will activate dashboard instrumentation cluster error and warning lights. These lights may flash off and on if the BCM is not able to read the sensors correctly. Your vehicle performance may also be affected as the BCM communicates with other control modules in the vehicle.
How do you reset a body control module?
Can a body control module be reset?
- STEP #1 Disconnect Battery. After the troubleshooting, and you finally come to the conclusion that your BCM is the problem, you could continue on the repair process.
- STEP #2 Locate the BCM.
- STEP #4 Remove and Reinstall.
- STEP #5 Connect Battery and Test.
How do you reset a PCM?
Resetting the PCM on your vehicle will help to clear all codes from it after a problem is fixed.
- Open the hood of the vehicle.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery. Use a wrench to loosen the lock nut, and pull the cable off. This cuts the power to the PCM. Wait for five minutes.
Can you drive with a bad PCM?
If your automatic transmission vehicle isn’t shifting normally, take it to a mechanic immediately. A failed PCM or TCM can cause the car to get stuck in gear, which can be a serious safety issue. It can also lead to costly transmission damage.
What happens when a BCM goes bad?
Symptoms of a Misfiring BCM Electronics, like windshield wipers and keyless entry, stop working properly. Flashing dashboard lights, or improper dashboard lighting. I.e., you could have a check engine light that should be on but isn’t, or you can have a check engine light that is on but shouldn’t be.
Can a BCM be reset?
In order for the BCM to work, you have to connect the car’s battery which is the source of power for the body control module. Make sure that you follow the specifications in order to reprogram or reset your vehicle’s BCM. Once things are fixed, you know it’s a job well done!