Flashing interior lights and transmission will not shift out of park

CC7369

MEMBER
2011 CHEVROLET CAMARO
3.6L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
65,000 MILES

My engine turns over when I start my car but all interior lights rapidly flash bright, the transmission won't shift out of park and my key fob won't initiate lock, unlock or alarm.

Sunday, November 22nd, 2020 AT 6:07 PM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

Is it the dome lights that are flashing? Since the fob won't initiate and it won't shift from park, I suspect the issue may be related to the body control module, but it needs to be scanned before I suggest that.

If it is possible, can you record what is happening and upload it for me to see?

Also, do you know if the battery in the vehicle is in good condition? Low voltage can cause crazy things like this to happen. Here is a link that explains how to load test the battery at home. Try this and see if it appears good:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Next, I strongly recommend scanning the can-bus system. CAN stands for controller area network. Basically, multiple modules and computers are tied together via a few wires. By doing this type of scan, it should provide diagnostic trouble codes related to the problem. Here is a quick video showing how it's done:

https://youtu.be/InIlnsjOVFA

The next thing I would suggest is to try reprogramming the BCM. I have the directions for that, but it will require specialized software/scan tool. However, before doing that, scan the system.

Take a look through this and let me know if it is something you can do.
Reprogram Existing BCM

To program and set up an existing BCM, perform the following procedure:

1. With a scan tool, access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions. Refer to Service Programming System (SPS) (See: Vehicle > Programming and Relearning > Service Programming System (SPS)).
2. On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select BCM Body Control Module Programming and follow the on-screen instructions.

Note: When performing the Tire Pressure Monitor Sensor Learn during BCM setup, the EL-46079 - Tire Pressure Monitor Diagnostic Tool must be used to activate each tire pressure sensor.

3. On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select BCM Body Control Module Setup and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Check the driver information center display for additional messages regarding further calibration instructions. If there are no additional driver information center instructions present, programming is complete.

If the BCM fails to accept the program, verify all scan tool and BCM connections are secure.

Note: After programming is completed, perform the following to avoid future misdiagnosis:

1. Turn the ignition "off" for 10 seconds.
2. Open and close the door.
3. Connect the scan tool to the data link connector.
4. Ignition "on", engine "off".
5. With a scan tool, clear all DTCs from all control modules.

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Let me know what you find. Also, if you can record what is happening and upload it, that may be helpful.

Take care,
Joe