On all the BPM pictures that I see they show a label that reads: "This part is programmable". So, what does that mean if I buy a used one from eBay?
Take it to the dealer and have it programmed? Or learn how to program it somewhere in the Web? --- Please advise. Right now I just want to be aware of what I may be getting into, as I have not yet determined that I actually need one.

Ref:
Body Processor Module (BPM)
- 2002 XJR
- 400ma through unswitched power 13 via fuse #5,
- LH heelboard fuse box (pull #5 fuse and current drops to below 100ma)

Thank you

 

You don't need to configure it to the car BUT it does need to match yours.
Make sure you read the VCATS label and get the SAME ONE (same software version).

Here is a TSB that explains EVERYTHING.

All these documents are in the large file download area that nobody reads.

bob gauff

 

Much appreciated Motorcarman.
I just realized that two new things happened:

1. Ater leaving the ammeter connected and reading the 400ma for at least
1 1/2 hours, the current through fuse #5 at the LH heelboard fuse box has dropped over 300ma, down to about 90ma. I guess that is the way it works and I really don't have the 400ma problem.

2. Now he windows won't go down. At least I tried the driver's door switches and the rear left door switch. I still need to try the rest of the switches, but in looking at the schematic diagram, the windows are operated by each window's individual control module and not by the BPM in any form.

Obviously, I have to work on this quite a bit more.

My best.

 

I did know that when you shut ignition off in these cars there's a routine shutting down of various processors that take some time, far more time when compared to my XJS, but I wasn't aware that it could take as long as it does. I mean, it made me believe that I was having a 400ma electrical problem when I didn't, when all I needed was to wait a little longer. Well, basically, even if you're troubleshooting it, YOU DON'T WAIT... or you don't keep coming back in the hope that you'll see the reading you want to see. Just leave it alone for at least an hour or more, unless my car is weird and different from others...

It has surprised me, however, to see my ammeter now reading .020ma. I was sure that a car with all the electronics of an X308 is more like .040ma or .050ma (that'll be my XJS). I sure hope that some devices haven't quit working, but everything seem to work fine, so far.

The positive about this incident is that it has increased my knowledge about the electricals in this car and I now have some of the electrical diagrams with writings an markings that help to further clarify connections and interfacing.

Cheers,

 

Almost all the X308 cars I have checked usually read about 31 milliamps (.031 amps) after the car has 'gone-to-sleep'.

Some might be a little more, some less but that draw looks OK to me.

bob gauff