What Does B1313 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an electrical fault in the battery saver relay control circuit. The battery saver relay is designed to disconnect non-essential electrical loads when the vehicle is off to prevent battery drain. The BCM detected either an open circuit, short circuit, or excessive resistance in the relay coil winding or its control circuit, preventing proper relay operation.
Common Causes
45%
Failed battery saver relay with open or shorted coil winding
30%
Damaged wiring or corroded connector pins between BCM and relay
15%
Blown fuse in the relay control circuit
10%
Failed BCM with internal relay driver circuit damage
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Locate the battery saver relay in the fuse/relay box (typically under hood or dash). Visually inspect the relay and its socket for signs of burning, corrosion, or damage. Remove relay and inspect socket terminals for corrosion or spread terminals.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, measure resistance across the relay coil terminals (typically pins 85 and 86). Normal reading should be 50-120 ohms. Reading of infinite resistance indicates open coil; zero resistance indicates short.
3
Step 3: Check relay control circuit fuse(s) in the power distribution center. If blown, investigate for short circuits before replacing. With relay removed and ignition on, measure voltage at relay socket control terminal from BCM (typically 12V present when BCM commands relay off).
4
Step 4: Inspect wiring harness between relay socket and BCM for chafing, pinching, or damage. Check connector at BCM for corrosion, backed-out pins, or moisture intrusion. Wiggle test harness while monitoring circuit continuity.
5
Step 5: If all wiring, fuses, and relay test good, suspect BCM internal relay driver failure. Verify BCM ground circuits are intact with less than 0.5 ohms resistance to chassis ground.
6
Step 6: After repairs, clear codes, cycle ignition off for 5 minutes, then restart vehicle. Monitor for code recurrence and verify all accessory loads operate normally after vehicle sits with ignition off.
Estimated Repair Cost
$75 - $600
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an electrical fault in the battery saver relay control circuit. The battery saver relay is designed to disconnect non-essential electrical loads when the vehicle is off to prevent battery drain. The BCM detected either an open circuit, s...
The most common cause of B1313 (Battery Saver Relay Coil Circuit Failure) is: Failed battery saver relay with open or shorted coil winding
Typical repair costs for B1313 range from $75 to $600, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Vehicle is safe to drive as this code affects battery preservation only. However, the vehicle may experience parasitic battery drain when parked, potentially leaving you stranded with a dead battery after extended periods of non-use.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1313 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Electrical/Body Control System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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