Code
B3290
Generic
B — Body
Body Control Module Internal Memory Error
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Corrupted BCM flash or EEPROM (software image or calibration data)
- Interruption during programming or software update
- Low or unstable battery/voltage during module access
- Failed or failing BCM hardware (internal memory or processor faults)
- Poor power/ground connections, wiring damage or corrosion
- Water intrusion, heat damage, or physical contamination
Symptoms
- Multiple body-system failures (doors, locks, lights, wipers, windows)
- Intermittent or permanent loss of convenience features
- Instrument cluster warnings or message about module failure
- Loss of communication with BCM on CAN/serial bus
- Learned settings (radio presets, seat memory) lost or reset
- Vehicle may not go to sleep or may have excessive battery drain
What to check
- Read all stored DTCs from BCM and other network modules; note freeze frame data and event counters
- Check battery state-of-charge and voltage (key off and during cranking); verify good battery health
- Inspect BCM connectors and harness for corrosion, bent pins, water, or damage
- Verify primary power and ground circuits to BCM for proper voltage and low resistance
- Check for aftermarket devices tied into body wiring (alarms, remote starts) and disconnect for test
- Scan CAN bus for communication errors, bus-off conditions, or related U-codes
Signal parameters
- Supply voltage to BCM: expected ~12.0–14.5 V (key on/crank vary within spec)
- Ground resistance:
- CAN bus activity: normal transmit/receive message rates per network (no bus-off)
- Module wake/sleep current per manufacturer spec (no excessive draw)
- Error counters or checksum/ECC status reported by BCM (where available)
Diagnostic algorithm
- Capture all DTCs and network U-codes; record freeze frame/event data.
- Verify battery voltage and charge if low. Recheck with a known-good battery if needed.
- Visually inspect BCM, mounting area, and connectors for water, corrosion, or physical damage.
- Verify constant and switched power feeds and ground continuity to the BCM; repair any high resistance.
- Check CAN bus/communication with other modules; isolate bus segments if necessary to identify faults.
- If an interrupted reflash is suspected, attempt a soft reset (clear codes, key cycle). If available, perform manufacturer-specified BCM reset procedure.
- Reprogram/reflash the BCM with the latest OEM software and proper calibration using dealer or factory tools. Ensure stable power during programming (battery charger or maintenance power).
- After reflash, clear codes and test all affected functions; monitor for reappearance of B3290.
- If reprogramming fails or code returns immediately and hardware checks good, consider BCM replacement and program new module with vehicle-specific configuration and security coding.
- Retest vehicle over several key cycles and drive conditions; verify no related network faults and no battery drain issues.
Likely causes
- Corrupted firmware caused by interrupted reprogramming or power loss
- Weak battery or poor battery connections during a module event
- Failed BCM memory cell(s) requiring module replacement
- Loose/oxidized ground or power feed creating intermittent resets
- Failed solder joint or connector pin in BCM harness
Fault status
Status
Internal memory/self-test failure detected in Body Control Module (checksum/ECC error or corrupted flash/EEPROM). Module may require reprogramming or replacement.
Repair difficulty: Hard
Diagnostic time: 1.5-4.0 hours
Similar codes
Repair manuals
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