What Does B1296 Mean?
B1296 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an abnormal voltage or signal condition in the power supply sensor circuit. This sensor monitors the voltage supplied to various body control systems and components. The BCM has identified that the voltage reading is outside the expected range, either too high, too low, or experiencing an intermittent connection.
Common Causes
35%
Corroded, loose, or damaged wiring connections at the power supply sensor or BCM connector
30%
Faulty power supply voltage sensor sending incorrect signals
20%
Low battery voltage, weak battery, or poor battery terminal connections affecting sensor readings
10%
Failed or failing Body Control Module with internal circuit fault
5%
Damaged wiring harness with short to ground or open circuit in power supply sensor circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring harness and connectors related to the power supply sensor and BCM, looking for corrosion, bent pins, loose connections, or physical damage. Clean and secure all connections found.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, measure battery voltage at the battery terminals (should be 12.4-12.8V engine off, 13.5-14.8V engine running). Test battery condition with load tester to verify adequate power supply to vehicle systems.
3
Step 3: Locate the power supply sensor and disconnect it. Using a multimeter, measure reference voltage at the sensor connector from the BCM (typically 5V or 12V depending on manufacturer). Check ground circuit for continuity to chassis ground.
4
Step 4: With sensor disconnected, measure resistance of the power supply sensor according to manufacturer specifications. Replace sensor if readings are out of range or if sensor shows infinite resistance indicating open circuit.
5
Step 5: Check for voltage drops in the power supply circuit by measuring voltage at various points along the wiring harness from BCM to sensor while wiggling wires to identify intermittent connections.
6
Step 6: Clear codes, perform drive cycle or system function test, and verify repair by confirming code does not return and all body control systems operate normally.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $600
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
B1296 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an abnormal voltage or signal condition in the power supply sensor circuit. This sensor monitors the voltage supplied to various body control systems and components. The BCM has identified that the voltage reading is outside the expected ran...
The most common cause of B1296 (Power Supply Sensor Circuit Failure) is: Corroded, loose, or damaged wiring connections at the power supply sensor or BCM connector
Typical repair costs for B1296 range from $100 to $600, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Generally safe to continue driving as this affects monitoring circuits rather than critical driving functions, but some convenience features or body control systems may be disabled or malfunction. Repair within a reasonable timeframe to prevent potential electrical issues or draining of the battery.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1296 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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