blakbuuty

I've had the BCM/radio/window problem for years now and have searched and read every thread about it, but there's just one thing I'm still not sure of... If I go ahead and buy a new BCM at GMpartsdirect, will it be programmed to my car when I put the key in the first time? I can't seem to find a clear answer on this - I guess it depends on the year as to whether that would work for some cars. I saw a thread where someone said a '96 is programmed with the key. Does anyone know if a '97 would be the same?

Thanks.

GaryDoug

Both the 96 and 98 factory service manuals state that a new BCM will automatically program itself to the key once, and only once, upon application of ignition voltage. I see no reason to suspect the 97 would be any different.

Rather than buy a new one, even if you don't have any simple electronic repair skills, you could find someone who does and save a lot of money. Print out the repair instructions and give it to him/her.

shoebox

From what I have read, most of the BCM problems are from marginal solder joints on the circuit board. Seems people have been able to restore some of them to working by touching up the major solder joints on the board with an soldering iron.

GaryDoug

Here is a procedure I wrote for the BCM removal and repair. Unfortunately you have to be registered (free) at FBN to view it.

http://www.firebirdnation.com/forums...al-and-repair/


Here it is without using FBN: http://www.mediafire.com/view/4zpyj6...and_repair.pdf

blakbuuty

Ok thanks for the tips! I did try the solder trick once and thought I'd fixed it because the problem stopped for a while, but then it came back again. I might try it again before buying a new part.