BCM is gone, can I run the car without having it programmed?

2003 SATURN L200
180,000 MILES
Avatar
NIKINYX
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
I know it's the BCM, All gauges die, car wouldn't shift out of park, remote entry failure, and the car will only start on cold, wet days.

I'm in Canada (no Saturn dealers) so if I buy a BCM online, will it run the car?

I don't care if the remote entry, speedometer, and other gauges work. I've jimmied the shift solenoid, so the shift issue is fixed, I just need to know (before dropping $200 on a BCM) if it will work without being programmed by a dealer
May 20, 2013 at 9:38 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
It really needs to be programmed any gm dealer can do that for you.
May 21, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Avatar
NIKINYX
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
'really needs to be programmed' ?

I 'really can't afford it' though! :)

will the car run without it being programmed?
May 21, 2013 at 12:13 AM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
Then buy a used bcm on eBay just make sure the one you buy came from a 2003 L200 the new mileage of your car will be what ever the mileage of the car it came out of.Its a computer new ones need to be programed.
May 21, 2013 at 12:39 AM
Avatar
NIKINYX
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
. I was planning on ebay anyway :) So a brand new, from the dealer BCM will not even start the car without being programmed?
May 21, 2013 at 12:41 AM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
As far as I remember no it won't.a new bcm is more then 200.
May 21, 2013 at 11:49 AM
Avatar
NIKINYX
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Fixed it! (I think) It seems to have been just a bad clip going into the BCM.
May 21, 2013 at 10:03 PM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
So it had a loose connection to the BCm?I thought you already check that.
May 22, 2013 at 12:16 AM
Avatar
NIKINYX
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
I had, but must have missed it.

It used to act worse on hot, dry days, so I won't put too much faith in it being fixed until another hot day, but I've had no troubles since last night. *fingers crossed*
May 22, 2013 at 12:20 AM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
Yeah heat is a big factor when those bums fails.keep me posted.
May 22, 2013 at 5:41 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.