Where is the BCM located on a 2017 Ford Explorer?

The Body Control Module (BCM) on a 2017 Ford Explorer is typically located in the interior, on the passenger side of the dash—most commonly behind or near the glove box. Access usually requires lowering or removing the glove box and possibly a nearby trim panel.

Location overview

In most 2017 Explorer models, the BCM sits within the lower dash area on the passenger side. The exact mounting point can vary by trim level and optional equipment, but the glove box area is the standard starting point for most vehicles in this generation.

Common mounting spots

These are the locations most often cited by owners and service guides. They describe practical places to check if you’re trying to locate the BCM for diagnostics or replacement.

• Behind the glove box on the passenger side, typically along the lower dash or kick panel area.


• In some configurations, mounted behind the right kick panel or inside the instrument panel near the glove box.


• Adjacent to the central junction box or A/C/diagnostic modules in the dash, depending on trim and options.

In practice, the BCM is usually accessible only after removing interior panels or the glove box. If you cannot see the module after inspecting these locations, refer to the service manual for your exact trim or contact a Ford dealer for confirmation.

Access steps to locate and inspect the BCM

Follow these steps to locate and access the BCM, while ensuring you observe safety precautions for electrical work.

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait at least 90 seconds to disable vehicle electronics and avoid short circuits.


2. Open the glove box and inspect its damper and mounting stops; release any stops to allow the box to drop further if needed.


3. Lower or remove the glove box completely, depending on the design, to expose the interior dash area on the passenger side.


4. Look for a small black module with multiple wiring harnesses, typically secured to the lower dash, kick panel, or inside the dash behind trim.


5. Carefully disconnect the BCM wiring harness(es) by pressing the release tabs and pulling straight out.


6. Inspect connectors for corrosion or bent pins; re-seat connectors firmly before reassembling the glove box and panels.

Reassembly and testing should be performed with caution. If you are replacing the BCM, ensure compatibility with your vehicle's CAN bus system and program the new unit per Ford's procedures or with a qualified technician.

Other considerations

Note that some Explorer trims or model updates in the 2017 generation may place the BCM in slightly different locations or integrate it with the central electronics box. When in doubt, check the owner's manual or service documentation for your specific VIN. If you are performing diagnostics, a professional scan tool can read BCM error codes and guide replacement decisions.

Summary

For a 2017 Ford Explorer, expect the BCM to reside on the passenger side of the dash, commonly behind or near the glove box. Access usually involves lowering or removing the glove box and possibly a nearby trim panel. Always follow safety precautions when working with vehicle electrical systems, and consult the service manual for your exact trim to confirm the precise mounting. If unsure, seek professional assistance.

How to reset BCM Ford?

To reset a Ford BCM, you can try either a battery disconnect method or a specific key-in-ignition sequence. The battery method involves disconnecting the negative battery terminal for about 15 minutes, and the key-in-ignition method requires turning the vehicle to accessory mode, flashing the high beams five times, and pressing the brake pedal three times until the battery light flashes, notes Ranger5G.com and Explorer ST Forum. For persistent issues or complex problems, professional diagnosis with a tool like FORScan may be necessary.
 
Method 1: Disconnect the battery 

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Wait for at least 15 minutes to allow the BCM to fully discharge.
3. If you have the ability, touch the positive and negative battery terminals together to drain any remaining power.
4. Reconnect the negative terminal and start the vehicle. 

Method 2: Key-in-ignition sequence

1. Turn the ignition to the "accessory" or "on" position without starting the engine. 
2. Flash the high beams five times. 
3. Press the brake pedal three times. 
4. Wait for the battery indicator light on the dashboard to start flashing, which indicates the reset is in progress. 
5. Once the light stops flashing, the reset is complete. 

Important considerations

• Consult your owner's manual: The exact procedure can vary by model, so always check your owner's manual for specific instructions. 
• Professional help: If the issue persists after a reset, or if you're uncomfortable working with the electrical system, seek professional help. A mechanic can use diagnostic tools like FORScan to clear codes or perform more advanced resets and software updates. 
• Safety: A faulty BCM can affect critical safety features like airbags, so it is important to address any BCM issues promptly. 

Where is the BCM on a 2017 Ford Explorer?

3. At the BCM, located under the instrument panel, to the left of the steering column, remove the BCM fuse 35 (5A).

Where is the BCM module located?

The Body Control Module (BCM) is typically located inside the vehicle, often behind the dashboard on the driver's side, under the center console, or behind the glove box. Its exact position varies by make and model, and it can sometimes be integrated into the fuse panel or located in the passenger-side kick panel.
 
This video shows the location of the BCM module on a Fiat: 59sElectrical Car Repair LIVEYouTube · May 27, 2022

• Behind the dashboard: The BCM is frequently found on the driver's side, near the steering column or the center console. 
• Under the center console: Another common location is underneath the center console. 
• Behind the glove box: Some vehicles, like certain BMW models, have the BCM located behind the glove box. 
• Integrated with the fuse panel: The BCM may be built into or connected to the main fuse box. 
• In the kick panel: The BCM can be found in the kick panel, often on the passenger side. 

This video shows the location of the BCM module in a 2013 BMW 5 series: 58sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Oct 28, 2022

What is the BCM on a Ford Explorer?

For those like me who didn't know what its function is: The BCMC is an electronic control unit (ECU) that manages many of a vehicle's electrical components that are not related to the engine. It centralizes control over these systems, reducing the complexity of the vehicle's wiring.