Body Control Systems: Description and Operation

2012 Ford F 150 2WD V8-6.2LSECTION Description and Operation



Module Controlled Functions

Body Control Module (BCM)

The Body Control Module (BCM) is located behind the RH side cowl trim panel and controls the following:

- Interior lighting

- Exterior lighting

- Dimmable backlighting

- Battery saver function

- Delayed accessory relay function

- Horn

- Brake shift interlock

- Post crash alert function

- Power door locks

- Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system

- Anti-theft system (perimeter and passive)

- Remote engine start

- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Battery Saver

NOTE: Time-out is 1 minute if the vehicle has less than 80 km (50 miles).

The BCM (Body Control Module) provides automatic shut-off of some system controlled components after a time-out period in order to save battery voltage. A timer in the BCM (Body Control Module) is started when the ignition is turned off and all the doors are closed. When 10 minutes have elapsed, the voltage is automatically shut off by the BCM (Body Control Module). While the BCM (Body Control Module) has voltage disabled, if the ignition state is changed to any position other than OFF, any door becomes ajar, the UNLOCK button of the RKE (Remote Keyless Entry) transmitter is pressed, a valid keypad code is entered, or the instrument panel dimmer switch is pressed, the BCM (Body Control Module) restores voltage and starts the timer again.

Post Crash Alert Function

The post crash alert function is controlled by the BCM (Body Control Module). If the Restraints Control Module (RCM) determines an impact of enough severity (the air bags may or may not be deployed), the RCM (Restraints Control Module) sends a message to the BCM (Body Control Module) over the High Speed Controller Area Network (HS-CAN) and the post crash alert function is activated. The post crash alert function activates the hazard lamp function and cycles the horn on 3 times, then off for 4 seconds, and repeats this cycle until the battery is discharged or the function is turned off. The post crash alert function can be turned off by:

- pressing the hazard flasher lamp switch (which may need to be pressed more than once).

- pressing the RKE (Remote Keyless Entry) transmitter UNLOCK button.

- pressing the RKE (Remote Keyless Entry) transmitter PANIC button.

Upfitter System

The upfitter system consists of upfitter relays and switches. The upfitter switches are located on the center console.

The upfitter switches each have an indicator that illuminates when the switch is in the ON position. The upfitter switches control relays for switching customer installed accessories on and off. The 4 upfitter switches can enable its corresponding relay only when the ignition is in run or accessory.

Upfitter relays 1 and 2 can support up to a 30A output each, upfitter relay 3 can support up to a 15A output and upfitter relay 4 can support up to a 10A output.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.