Circuit/System Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Buick Regal. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The engine control module (ECM) provides a signal circuit to the backup lamp switch which is permanently grounded. With the engine running and the transmission in the reverse position, the backup lamp switch signal circuit is pulled low and the ECM responds by sending a serial data message to the body control module (BCM). The message indicates that the gear selector is in the reverse position. The BCM applies battery voltage to the backup lamps control circuit illuminating the backup lamps. Once the driver moves the gear selector out of the reverse position, a message is sent by the ECM via serial data requesting the BCM to remove battery voltage from the backup lamps control circuit. The engine must be running for the backup lamps to operate.