Code
B0290
Generic
B — Body
Body Control Module Communication Fault
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Open, shorted or corroded wiring/connectors to the BCM
- Blown fuse or faulty power/ground feed to the BCM
- CAN/LIN bus open, short to voltage/ground, or missing termination
- Faulty BCM (internal electronics or firmware)
- Intermittent connections (water intrusion, damaged harness)
- Aftermarket device or module causing bus errors
Symptoms
- One or more body functions inoperative or intermittent (locks, windows, lighting, wipers)
- Inability to communicate with BCM using a scan tool
- Other modules report lost communication or multiple network errors
- Warning lights or message center alerts related to body systems
- Battery drain, fuse blows, or erratic behaviour of accessories
What to check
- Connect a scan tool, read all module addresses and stored/current codes; note communication status
- Record battery voltage with key off and during cranking (12.2–12.8 V at rest typical)
- Visually inspect BCM connector(s) for corrosion, bent pins, water, or damage
- Check BCM power and ground circuits for proper voltage and good continuity
- Verify fuses and relays related to BCM power/ignition circuits
- Inspect CAN/LIN wiring harness for chafing, pinches, or repairs; perform wiggle tests
Signal parameters
- CAN bus recessive level: both CAN-H and CAN-L ≈ 2.5 V
- CAN dominant differential: CAN-H ≈ 3.5 V, CAN-L ≈ 1.5 V (differential ≈ 2.0 V)
- Termination resistance (CAN-H to CAN-L): ≈ 60 ohms (two 120 Ω terminators in parallel)
- LIN bus idle: pulled up to battery voltage via resistor (signal low when driven)
- Battery voltage: should be stable and >12 V with key off; >11 V during cranking
Diagnostic algorithm
- Use scan tool: confirm B0290 details, check for related DTCs and live data where available.
- Verify vehicle battery voltage and charging system; charge or replace battery if low.
- Inspect BCM connector(s) and harness for corrosion, water intrusion, damage or loose pins; repair as needed.
- Check BCM power/ignition fuses and relay operation; measure voltage at BCM power pins with connector connected.
- Test ground integrity: measure voltage drop between BCM ground and chassis during a load/wiggle test.
- Probe CAN bus at BCM: measure CAN-H and CAN-L voltages at idle and during activity; compare to expected signal_params.
- Check bus termination resistance and continuity to other module connectors; isolate segments if bus short suspected.
- Disconnect non‑OEM accessories or modules that share the bus; see if communication is restored.
- If wiring and bus checks OK, attempt to reflash or verify BCM software/calibration per manufacturer procedures.
- If programming fails or faults persist with correct wiring/power/termination, consider replacing BCM. After replacement, program and relearn per OEM instructions and confirm all related modules communicate.
- Clear codes and verify all affected systems operate normally before returning vehicle to service.
Likely causes
- Loose or corroded BCM connector pins
- Missing or blown BCM power/ground fuse or bad ground strap
- CAN bus wiring shorted to battery/ground or open circuit
- Bad/missing CAN termination resistor(s)
- Recent module replacement without proper programming
- Damaged harness near door hinges or other flex points
Fault status
Status
Body Control Module communication fault: BCM messages missing, invalid, or intermittent on vehicle network.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1-3 hours
Similar codes
Repair manuals
Brands with available manuals
7,940
The library contains 7,940 repair and diagnostic manuals. Choose a brand to open the full manual tree by year, model and trim.
Your experience will help others
+100 karma for a short comment :)
Was this AI description helpful?
Your feedback helps improve AI descriptions.
👍 Like
0
👎 Dislike
0
Send to email
