1997 Maxima..

Can someone explain how to remove and install the BCM for the above vehicle and it's location in the vehicle.

Where do I find this module on my car and what is it's function?

I have my instrument panel that needed lights replaced and I forgot to take the battery off and am told I blew the body control module out. I've lost power to the windows/wipers (works very slow), my air horn isn't working with the alarm system but the alarm workds, it was cranking had a vibration in the steering wheel and shut down, now it doesn't want to crank or stay running, my speedometer isn't functioning as well as the odometer...

My battery is new, so I know it's not that and have been told since I didn't remove the battery cable, I messed up that BCM...TIA for any input..JMHO

 

You should check your fuses first...I don't think Nissan would design it in such a way to blow out.

 

I did papa!!! That was the frist thing i did....

 

Okay if you don't have the FSM, you should grab a copy online. It is located behind the radio.

 

Thanks papa!!! You from bk what part...

 

The BCM is on the floor directly underneath the radio, sitting on top of the TCM (Transmission Control Module).

 

Cool!! So i got to take the radio off to get to BCM...

 

Can anyone confirm this? I've never heard of having to disconnect the battery to remove an instrument cluster and have removed many over the years w/o touching the battery. (including in my '99)

 

Never heard of it either which is why I was weary of the OP's post...

 

I've driven cars with the instrument cluster removed, at least in the shop, and never had a problem. Maybe he shorted something when he was replacing his bulbs?

 

The BCM has a failsafe function, in the event you blew it their is a checklist in the FSM of how things operate when it's in fail-safe mode (Or completely unplugged). The only one I can remember is involving the domelight, something along the lines of it not shutting off when in the door position, I think your sunvisor courtesy lights stop working also. I can't remember, it's been awhile, but the FSM goes into good detail about it. It's not that hard to pull out, it is a nightmare trying to find the correct one as they were different for years, trims, sunroof, safety & security package, etc etc. Just because it has all of the correct plugs doesn't mean it will work. I won't tell you where it is because you need to go over that list in the FSM anyways, but it's really easy to locate & swap

 

I once changed a 4th gen instrument cluster while driving, I agree that he shorted something and has a blown fuse. Check the ones under the hood as well.