2022 honda civic body control module location

Why Shop with Honda Factory Parts?

Trust

We are affiliated with one of the earliest Honda dealers in the country and are in our 5th decade selling Genuine Honda OEM Parts. Our reputation is second to none and serving our customers is our top priority.  Reflecting this, our team has been awarded with the prestigious Council of Parts and Service Professionals.  This award is presented by Honda to the best of the best Parts departments for excellence in customer satisfaction and effective operations.

Expertise

Our Parts team has over 100 years combined Honda Parts experience.  This means even if you order the wrong part or miss a related part for a typical repair, our processors will typically catch this and work with you to get the right Genuine OEM Honda Parts to finish the job you are working on.  They know part numbers, Honda models, and repairs the way you know how to tie your shoe.  Have a question? Send us an email:

Convenience

Our parts get to you faster.  Honda Factory Parts has access to a tremendous onsite inventory of Genuine OEM Honda Parts due to our connection to one of the largest Honda service centers in the county.  For parts that need to be special ordered, we are located only 4 miles from one of Honda’s largest Parts warehouses in the country.  Most special orders are in our hands by the next business day or even on Saturday.  Because we operate extensive business hours, we process and ship orders faster than our competition.  Do you need something particularly urgently?  Select expedited shipping and send us an email so we can try to get the part onto a late pickup with UPS or Fedex.

Modern cars are a fest for electronic systems. Compared to mostly mechanical old cars, newer cars are filled to the brim with sensors, controllers, actuators, and control modules. With the complications in technology that accompanied this change, modern cars have modern problems. If you are familiar with the meme world, you must know that modern problems need modern solutions. Body control module reset is one among them.

  • What Is BCM?
  • Where Is It Located?
  • Symptoms Of Failure
  • Body Control Module Reset Cost
  • DIY Fix

Body control module reset is the process of re-flashing the software in the BCM, short for Body Control Module. This is a central processing unit of the car that governs the functioning of many systems. It is a part of an elaborate system of ECUs (Electronic Control Units) in the car that includes Engine Control Module (ECM), Brake Control Module (BCM), Suspension Control Module (SCM), and more. A modern car can have more than 80 ECUs, which is a lot of computing power.

Here, let us focus on the Body Control Module. Body control module reset is done when you experience problems with any of the systems that it controls. A malfunction in these systems can be a sign that calls for a body control module reset. Before we delve into that, let us shift our focus to the BCM and the role it plays in an automobile.

What Is A Body Control Module (BCM)?

As mentioned above, the BCM plays a vital role in the proper functioning of a car. Like every other ECU in a car, BCM takes input from several devices that include sensors. The information fed into the body control module is then processed to produce a favorable output. This video can help you understand all the ECUs in a car.

The significance of a body control module keeps on rising as modern cars use more and more electrical systems. These can include infotainment systems, driver information displays or dials, sunroof, keyless entry systems, lights, wipers, and so on. Though these systems may not have a direct link between them, a failure in the body control module can affect all.

The functioning of the BCM is like that of the Engine Control Module (ECM). But unlike the ECM, the body control module controls the systems that are external to the engine. So, if you are experiencing some engine-related issues, BCM may not likely be the culprit.

But if there is some problem with the vehicle’s electrical systems, the BCM is the one to nab. If you are interested in knowing what general 10 problems are the most likely to pop up on cars, you can read it here.

Where Can I Find The BCM?

Just like many parts in an automobile, the body control module can be positioned in different locations in different models. But in most cars, you can find the BCM located under the dashboard. It is most likely located to the right side of your steering wheel, under the dashboard panel. In some cars, you may have to take apart some bits of the dashboard to reach it.

Once you reach the BCM, unplugging it is quite easy. There will be several wires plugging into the BCM. You will have to unplug them, an easy procedure, and the BCM can be slid out of its housing. But why should you go through all this hassle? The system issues in the car that calls for a body control module reset can be a headache, that is why. Allow us to introduce the symptoms that can be signaling the need for a body control module reset.

Symptoms That Call For A Body Control Module Reset

The symptoms that show up when a BCM runs faulty are understandably from the systems it controls. Here is a list of all such possible symptoms.

Failure In The Operation Of Electrical Systems

The body control module reset is made necessary when the BCM fails to conduct its task properly. The controlling of the electrical systems in a car is the primary task of the BCM. So, unsurprisingly the very first symptom of a fault in the BCM operation is a drop in the performance of any of these electrical systems.

If you see some of the systems including horns, lights, warning chimes, locks, dials, stereo, wipers, interior lamps, clock, odometer, etc. failing or operating incorrectly, it can be an issue with the BCM. Your body control module reset may be closing in.

These issues do not have to be a complete failure of an electrical system. Most early symptoms are usually trivial with no significant damage. For instance, if the clock, odometer, saved radio frequencies, etc. are getting reset every time you start your vehicle, your body control module reset may be coming up.

Drained Battery

A drained battery can mean a plethora of things. It can be a failure with the alternator, or it can be a light that you forgot to turn off, or it can mean that the battery itself has died. Apart from these obvious issues, a fault with the BCM can also trigger battery drain.

This kind of battery drain is called parasitic drain as the battery has dried out even when not using it. When you turn a car off, there are some systems that leech some charge out of the battery under normal circumstances. These include your clock, security alarm, immobilizer, and radio presets. The battery is made to handle this drain, and these will not drink all the juice from it over a few nights.

But if the body control module reset is impending, this drain can be too much for the battery to handle. This can overload the battery and completely exhaust its reserves. So, the next time you encounter a dead battery, keep this in mind. Your body control module may be in need of a reset.

Cluster Warning Lights

If you turn your car on and the instrument cluster lights up like it is Christmas, it can be a BCM issue. If one or two of those lights stay illuminated for a while, it can be an issue with those respective systems. For example, if the ABS light stays on for a while, you may want to check the ABS module. This is not an issue with the BCM.

But if the warning lights on the cluster start flashing on and off, the BCM may be to blame. This flashing can occur when the body control module is unable to read the sensors correctly. This is an obvious sign that a body control module reset is needed.

When this happens, you may also experience a drop in the vehicle performance as the body control module will communicate with other systems in the vehicle.

2022 honda civic body control module location

Burnt Fuse Box

As a body control module reset is a process associated with electrical faults, a fuse box can be a place where problems can occur. The fuse box is likely one of the first casualties when an electrical issue crops up. This time too, it is not different.

Smoke coming out of the fuse box or a burnt smell can indicate overheating and failure of the fuse box. If this happens, get your vehicle checked by a professional. You may have repair bills coming your way.

Overheating of the fuse box or a failure in the fuse system can be an issue that calls for a body control module reset. On top of this, you will also need to fix whatever that went wrong with the fuse box.

Jerking Under Acceleration

Acceleration of a car will bring in some vibrations into the cabin of the vehicle. But if they go beyond a certain degree, it points at something that has gone wrong in the vehicle. Trouble inside the body control module can be a cause of excessive jerking or shaking.

This becomes more evident when you slam on the throttle. Under heavy acceleration, the jerking can be quite noticeable. If this happens, a body control module reset may be in order. But do not be mistaken. Severe jerking of the engine can be caused by several other factors as well. So, before you deduce a body control module reset, get the help of a professional. A trained eye can spot any other issue in the vehicle that can cause this jerking.

Reduction In Acceleration

Just like the jerking of the engine, a reduction in the acceleration of the vehicle can hint at a body control module reset. But just like the jerking, a BCM issue is not the only problem that can reduce the pickup of a vehicle. So professional help is necessary to trace the issue back to its root cause.

A body control module reset may be all that you need to restore your vehicle’s original acceleration. If your luck is not that good, it can be some mechanical issue.

Security System Errors

This is tied to the electrical failures that we talked about, a couple of paras before. The entire security system of vehicles including Remote Keyless Entry and Anti-Theft Systems uses the BCM as a central brain for their job. Any failure in the BCM can reflect a malfunction of these systems.

If the security system of your car fails, the BCM may be to blame. A body control module reset can rectify this issue. Finding a fault with the security system demands your immediate action, as it may prepare the ground for easy theft. An appointment with your trusted garage should be your first order of business if you spot something wrong with these important systems.

Why Do You Need A Body Control Module Reset?

As we have established, the body control module is a key part of a vehicle’s electrical framework. In fact, if the BCM fails, almost all the electric arsenal of the vehicle will not work as intended. Hence, a body control module reset is a necessary repair procedure that can never be ignored. But luckily, the BCM shows off signs of its last legs clearly, enabling you to take quick action. So, if you suspect that your BCM is acting up, perform a body control module reset, and that should be all it takes to alleviate your pain.

Body Control Module Reset Cost

The body control module reset is a process that needs professional help. If you are not familiar with replacing parts on a vehicle, the BCM is not a good place to start. This project can be expensive too, as the BCM is an integral part of the car’s electric system.

Combining the part and labor costs, a body control module rest can cost around $300. The price is almost always evenly split between parts and labor, with the module costing $150 and labor following suit. The body control module reset costs, like other maintenance procedures, can vary according to different factors.

The model of the vehicle is a primary influencing factor for this variation in cost. Some vehicles have the BCM positioned deep inside the dashboard. This will need your mechanic to remove more panels than usual, to scuba dive into the confusing matrix of wires. Fitting them all back together after the task is complete is also going to be an uphill stride. Hence, more hours of labor. More money.

The body control module replacement costs also depend on the state you are in, the mechanic you approach, and more. But all this is worth it, as your vehicle’s peripheral systems are almost all dead without a proper BCM.

If you choose to replace the BCM completely, make sure you pick up the right unit. For this, information regarding the version and kind of software the old BCM uses is needed. This can ensure that all your systems will function normally once you fit the new one in. Also, it is recommended to stay away from buying used BCMs. They are very sensitive units, and these can go wrong soon after you fit them in. Then you end up in the same loop again.

2022 honda civic body control module location

Can You Do It Yourself?

Now, we have a section for the grease monkeys who dare to get their hands dirty doing a body control module reset. Though it is technically possible to perform a body control module reset from your home yet, it is to be noted that the BCM is highly sensitive. The wrong procedure of resetting the module can end up doing more harm to the vehicle than good. The procedure itself can be cumbersome and intricate.

It is always recommended to employ the dealer to carry out the body control module reset. They are better versed in monitoring the security codes that enable the reset. Also, if something goes wrong with the programming, they are equipped with the tools to counter it.

If all this horror-filled buildup did not scare you away from a body control module reset, worry not. We have the right guide for the adventurous journey that lies ahead of you. Here are the steps to perform a body control module rest by yourself.

Disconnect The Battery Terminals

It is always recommended to disconnect the car battery from the system before you lay hands on anything electric in the vehicle. Safety is paramount and risking an electric shock is not worth it. So, keep yourself safe before you dive into the process.

Find The BCM Location

The BCM in most vehicles is located inside the dashboard. But it differs from model to model. The deeper the location of the BCM is, the harder it will be to reach it. Your vehicle’s repair manual can help to trace the BCM easily. A simple Google search may also suffice. If even the search engine gods cannot help you, you can contact a seasoned mechanic and seek his/her advice to locate the body control module.

Once the location is traced, it is mostly a matter of unscrewing some bolts and screws to expose the BCM. The number of panels to be removed depends on your make and model. If you want to know how the make of a car affects your ownership experience, you can read about it here.

Removing The BCM

Once you have located the body control module, the next thing to do is to remove it, obviously. A ratchet can help you unbolt the BCM from the housing. You will have to unplug the connector clips attached to the BCM to remove them completely from the housing. The wires must be unplugged. Keep track of the wires while unplugging. This can make your life easier when you fit in the new BCM.

Reinstalling The BCM

If you are replacing the BCM, you must ensure that the part you buy is the same as what you have removed. If not, the systems in your vehicle may fail to work properly. Once you have the right part, it is just a matter of doing the steps that you did to remove the BCM, but in reverse. Plug the wires and plugs in, slot the BCM into its housing and bolt it tight.

Reconnect Battery

To complete the body control module reset, you will have to reconnect the battery. This reestablishes the electrical supply through the BCM as well as other electrical peripherals of the vehicle. Once the battery is reconnected, check if the problems that made you perform the body control reset have been rectified. If yes, pat yourself on the back for a job well done. And that wraps up our attempt to DIY a body control module reset.

Alternatively, you can also try isolating the battery and draining the charge from all ECUs. In some vehicles, this may be able to do the trick. But note that once you do this, everything in the vehicle’s memory will be wiped out, including your saved radio stations. More critically, the vehicle will have to relearn its optimal working conditions. But this is just a quick fix. If you are interested in this, you can check the below video.

But keep in mind that this is just a preliminary attempt to alleviate electrical issues that may be triggered by a faulty BCM. If this does not solve your issue, your new BCM must be reprogrammed by a dealer. They use specialized diagnostic scan tools to perform the reprogramming procedure. This establishes proper links to the sensors and other systems of the individual vehicle.

Body Control Module Reset – Conclusion

It is now clear that a body control module reset is an important procedure. The BCM is a delicate part but with a strong function. Given the important role the BCM plays in a car, the money and time put into it are worth it. So, if your vehicle is showing symptoms that demand a body control module reset, do not hesitate. Give your vehicle the proper treatment it deserves, and you should be taken care of for the next many miles.

Approved Tools

These tools have been tried and tested by our team, they are ideal for fixing your car at home.

2022 honda civic body control module location

Where is the body control module located Honda Civic?

It is located above the fuse box that is inside the vehicle. Specifically, right behind the 6 button panel to the left of the steering wheel. It is not easily accessible. You can access it after removing the large plastic panel below the steering wheel and unbolting the fuse box.

Where is body control module located?

Just like many parts in an automobile, the body control module can be positioned in different locations in different models. But in most cars, you can find the BCM located under the dashboard. It is most likely located to the right side of your steering wheel, under the dashboard panel.

What happens when the BCM goes out?

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.

What does the Honda BCM control?

In most vehicles, the BCM is responsible for controlling the power mirrors, power windows, rear window defrost, central locking system, immobilizer system, power mirrors, air conditioning, among other things.