What Does B1396 Mean?
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an abnormal voltage condition in the power door lock circuit, specifically a short to battery voltage (constant 12V+). This means one or more wires in the door lock system is making unintended contact with a power source, causing the circuit to receive voltage when it shouldn't. The BCM monitors door lock actuator circuits for proper voltage ranges and sets this code when it detects continuous battery voltage on the control side of the circuit.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring in door harness where wires contact B+ wire or metal creating short to power
30%
Failed door lock actuator with internal short circuit to power supply
15%
Water intrusion or corrosion in door lock switch causing internal short to power
10%
Faulty BCM with internal relay or driver circuit stuck closed providing constant power
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all door harnesses, especially at hinge areas and door jambs, looking for pinched, chafed, or damaged wiring. Flex harness boots while observing for exposed copper or damaged insulation
2
Step 2: Disconnect all door lock actuators one at a time and use a digital multimeter to measure voltage on the control wire at BCM connector with ignition on - should read 0V or less than 1V when locks are not commanded. If voltage persists with all actuators disconnected, problem is in wiring or BCM
3
Step 3: With suspected actuator disconnected, measure resistance between actuator connector terminals - should read 2-8 ohms typically. Then measure resistance from each terminal to ground and to B+ - should read infinite resistance (open circuit). Low resistance indicates internal short
4
Step 4: If wiring is suspect, isolate door harness sections by disconnecting at both BCM and door connectors, then measure resistance from suspect control wire to B+ wire and chassis ground - should read infinite resistance. Resistance below 10K ohms indicates short location
5
Step 5: After repair, clear codes, cycle door locks 10-15 times using both interior and exterior switches, then verify code does not return and all locks operate normally
Estimated Repair Cost
$120 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an abnormal voltage condition in the power door lock circuit, specifically a short to battery voltage (constant 12V+). This means one or more wires in the door lock system is making unintended contact with a power source, causing th...
The most common cause of B1396 (Power Door Lock Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or chafed wiring in door harness where wires contact B+ wire or metal creating short to power
Typical repair costs for B1396 range from $120 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Vehicle is safe to drive as this is a convenience feature issue. Main concern is potential for door locks to operate erratically, remain locked/unlocked unintentionally, or drain battery if short causes continuous actuator operation. Repair at earliest convenience to maintain vehicle security and prevent potential battery drain.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1396 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control System / Power Door Locks
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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