Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) Power Mode
RAP is a vehicle power mode that permits the operation of selected customer convenience items after the ignition switch is turned OFF. These selected items will remain in operation until a passenger compartment door is opened or until the RAP function timer reaches its shut-off limit.
The BCM turns OFF the RAP function and de-energizes the RAP relay when one of the following conditions are met.
- The BCM senses the opening of any door or the liftgate.
- The BCM detects a decrease in battery capacity below a prescribed limit.
- The BCM receives a message from its internal timer indicating the end of the RAP period after 20 minutes.
- The transition from OFF to RUN/ON on the ignition switch.
The body control module monitors the ignition switch position, battery condition and passenger compartment door status to determine whether RAP should be initiated. If the ignition switch transitions from RUN/ON to OFF, the battery level is within the acceptable range and the passenger compartment doors are closed, the body control module energizes the RAP relay. This provides power for the following:
- DIC
- Power Window Control Switches
- Power door lock Control Switches
- Steering Wheel Control Switches
- Radio
- OnStar, VIU
- Outside Rearview Mirror Switch
NO RELATED
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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.