Some C5-related abbreviations (more are welcome, just post one as a reply and I'll put it in the list). If a topic like this already exists, also please let me know (couldn't find one).


BCM
Body Control Module. It is a computer that controls or interfaces with all the body functions and communicates with all the other modules/computers in the car. BCM is one of the 11 DTC-sections.

BSM
Body side moldings. This was an option on C5 Corvettes. When installed they are visible on the doors and part of the fenders. Some hate 'm, some love 'm. Thanks @Cactuscat.

DIC
Driver Information Centre. It's the small screen behind the steering wheel that says "Corvette... by Chevrolet" and that shows you what's wrong, if anything.

DRL's
Daytime running lights. An in-between to not having lights on at all and popping up your regular lights.

DTC
Diagnostic Trouble Code. To fetch them, turn your car's key to 'on', reset all DIC messages by hitting button #6, then hold button #4 and hit button #1 four times. Now you can write down the DTC's, if present.

EBTCM
Electronic Brake & Traction Control Module. This is a module or computer, 1997-1998 situated underneath the trunk of the car, after that in the engine compartment, that governs ABS as well as traction control. Thanks @LoneStarFRC.

ESC
Electronic Suspension Control. It's a module that does as its name suggests.

FOB
Actually this is not an abbreviation but it may still be good to have in this list. A key fob is the little transmitter / receiver that you use to open / close the car, set the alarm etc.

FRC
Fixed roof coupe, this being the hardtop version of a C5. The abbreviation also stands for 'fuel rail cover' and, as if we could forget, also for 'Flying Roof Club'. You'll become a member automatically upon having your coupe roof fly through the air due to it not being fastened. Thanks @ronwc.

HUD
Head-up display. Option available as of late '99. The car's speed and other variables are projected on your windshield. To install, see here.

HVAC
Heater, Ventilator, Airconditioning. If you have a HVAC-code, it has something to do with either your heater, ventilator or airco. HVAC is one of the 11 DTC-sections.

IPC
Instrument Panel Cluster. It contains all instruments and the DIC. IPC is one of 11 DTC-sections.

LMC5
An aftermarket module that, once installed, fixes or prevents column lock failures.

LDCM
Left door control module. This is the module or computer that controls everything related to the left door. LDCM is one of 11 DTC-sections.

OBDII
On-Board Diagnostics II. System to read and diagnose DTC's. To connect to a C5's OBDII, you need to connect a Tech II (or another type of) scanner to the car's OBDII-port. The connector is located underneath the IPC.

OEM
Original Equipment Manufacture. If someone tells you to buy OEM parts, he means original GM stuff made specifically for your C5.

PCM
Powertrain Control Module. It is the computer that controls the engine. It is designed to maintain exhaust emission levels while maintaining drivability and fuel efficiency. Functions: fuel control, ignition control, knock sensor system, automatic transmission shift functions, certain manual transmission parts, cruise control enable, generator, evaporate emission purge, airconditioning clutch control, cooling fan control and secondary air injection. PCM is one of 11 DTC-sections.

RDCM
Right door control module. This is the module or computer that controls everything related to the right door. RDCM is one of 11 DTC-sections.

RFA
Remote function actuation. This module controls the receipt of FOB signals. RFA is one of 11 DTC-sections.

RPO
Regular Production Option. Check your Corvette's factory-built options in the left storing space lid in the back of your C5.

RTD
Real-time damping. This was an RPO for C5's that served to enhance suspension (special shock absorbers, sensors and a console mounted selector with choices of Tour, Sport and Performance.

SCM
Seat control module. It is a module or computer that controls the driver seat. SCM is one of 11 DTC-sections.

TCS
Traction Control System. This system, based on the same principles as ABS but used vice-versa, improves traction of the wheels. TCS is one of 11 DTC-sections.

TPM
Tire pressure monitor. A system that operates with battery-powered sensor located inside the valve stems on each tire. The sensors send tire pressure readings to a receiver inside the car. These readings are displayed when using the 'gages' button on the DIC. See also 'tpms'.

TPMS
Tire pressure monitoring system. This module checks whether your tires have correct pressure. If an error is encountered, you'll see a warning in the DIC. See also 'TPM'.

Z06
A Corvette with better performance and handling. The Z06 is a high-performance version of the C5. Thanks @Z_fox.

Z51
A Corvette with special performance and handling package.

 

You forgot my favorite with three meanings - FRC

Flying roof club
Fuel rail cover
Fixed roof coupe

 

Thanks for the suggestion Ronwc, I added that.

 

EBTCM = Electronic Brake Traction Control Module

 

I should not have reflected my personal experiences in this thread . Thanks LonestarFRC for your keen eye.

(FRC?)

 

FRC = Fixed Roof Coupe (unofficial Chevrolet name)

Hardtop = Official Chevrolet name

 

No flying roof club member then

Had just added that abbreviation, as to Ronwc's suggestion.

 

PITA: Pain in the ***


I know some else here doing the same thing. I will try to hook you two up.

 

Z51 but no Z06?

 

@Dadaroo: please do.

@Z-FOX: good one, I'll add that when I get home.

 

Z06 and TPM added.

 

thanks for sharing

 

And of course, you missed the one that has caused more wars here on CF than the Hatfields and McCoys. I'm speaking of BSMs. Just mentioning this will get it started....
Body Side Moldings

 

@Ttiros: you're welcome!
@Cactuscat: worthy addition

 

SDM = Sensing and Diagnostic Module. The sensor that triggers the airbags, mounted on the tunnel directly beneath the HVAC control panel. Tip: any connector body that is yellow in color is related directly to the air bag system. Proceed with caution.

 

BPMV - I think it's brake pressure modulating valve. It's the valve assembly the EBTCM mounts on and contains the pump and valves used to control the brake pressure.

 

NOS, New Old Stock. Parts that are still new (not used) and were provided by the manufacturer (GM in this case) when the car was made.

 

M6 = 6 speed tranny
M4 = Automatic tranny

It would be nice if U could add info as to where these components are located on the car. Thanks for doing this, when I first got my vette and started reading the forum I wondered what these abbreviations were. I think the m6 was my first question, LOL, that is laugh out loud for U non facebook guys and gals.

 

More specifically

M30 Automatic transmission (4L60E), 4 speeds

MM6 Standard manual transmission (T56), 6 speeds

M12 Z06 manual transmission (T56), 6 speeds

 

Thanks guys for your participation, I will add those to the list shortly, first I'm off to my vacation address

I'll also try to add the parts' location to the descriptions.