Code B1001, replaced BCM, Airbag light always on, how to fix it?

DOOTSIE5TIMES

MEMBER
2000 BUICK REGAL
3.8L
6 CYL
205,000 MILES

The BCM on my car listed above GS model, started to malfunction (door chime intermittent then remotes didn't work). Rockauto only listed 2 Cardone BCM replacement modules. I called Cardone and they told me all I needed to do was to take their module to a garage with a tech2 scan tool and get it programmed. So, I purchased a replacement Cardone module from Rockauto with the # that matched the one in my car. After it was installed, I sent it back for core. Garage #1 only had a Snap-On scan tool. It asked if the car was a Buick Century WS, which it isn't, and then said "programming complete" and the airbag light was then on constantly with an error code of B1001. He told me to take it to garage #2 since they had GM programming ability. I then took it to #2 and the BCM module said that it was locked & could not be programmed. I called Cardone and they told me it was defective. I then got a 2nd one from Rockauto and took that, in it's box back to garage #2. They installed it fresh and attempted to program it with the GM tool. They said the GM software didn't have/give any options to enter rpo codes, so they attempted to program it with an otc and Snap-On scan tools. Both tools asked if it was a Century WS. If you said Yes, it said complete, if you said No, it would ask questions about vin and rpo codes. Once done and codes cleared, the airbag light would clear until you restarted the car then the airbag light and B1001 code would set again. Finally, I bit the bullet and took it to a dealership hoping they would have better luck. So now at garage #3 (dealer), they tried programming it and ended up with the same result as garage #2. They did say that the vin #s in the BCM, BCM and SDM all matched.
So, the airbag light is still on, and I still have code B1001.
As far as I can tell, everything except the airbags work.
I'm now over $280 in the hole not counting the cost of the BCM and I'm still in the same place.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,909 POSTS

You say airbag light but the code it for a faulty BCM?

B1001 Code - BCM Configuration Error: This error occurs when the BCM detects a discrepancy or error in its calibration settings. The BCM is a crucial component in modern vehicles, responsible for controlling and monitoring various electronic accessories in the car, such as interior lighting, door locks, and alarm system.
Possible causes for this error could include:

Faulty BCM: The BCM itself might be malfunctioning.

Software Needs Update: The software of the BCM could be outdated or corrupted, requiring reprogramming or an update.

Electrical Issues: Problems in the electrical connections leading to the BCM, like loose connections, corroded wires, or damaged terminals, can trigger this code.

Aftermarket Installations: Sometimes, aftermarket installations (like alarm systems, audio systems, etc.) can interfere with the BCM's operation.

Which airbag code are you getting? Here is how to get the airbag codes:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-gather-airbag-safety-system-codes

And so, did the dealer say anything more about the problem or did they throw up their hands?