What Does B1401 Mean?
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an abnormal short-to-ground condition in the driver's power window one-touch relay circuit. The BCM monitors the relay control circuit and has identified that current is flowing to ground through an unintended path, which prevents proper operation of the one-touch window feature. This electrical fault typically occurs in the relay itself, its control circuit wiring, or within the BCM's internal relay driver circuit.
Common Causes
40%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness between BCM and window relay causing direct ground contact
30%
Failed one-touch window relay with internal short to ground
20%
Water intrusion or corrosion in relay socket or connector terminals creating ground path
10%
Failed BCM with internal relay driver circuit shorted to ground
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of driver's door jamb harness and all visible wiring to the window relay for pinched, chafed, or damaged insulation indicating possible short to ground. Check for any recent repairs or modifications near window control circuits.
2
Step 2: Locate and remove the one-touch window relay from its socket. Using a digital multimeter, measure resistance between the relay control coil terminal (BCM side) and known good chassis ground with relay removed and ignition off. Reading should be infinite ohms (open circuit); any continuity indicates wiring short to ground.
3
Step 3: Inspect relay socket and connector for water damage, corrosion, or pushed-out terminals. Test the removed relay by checking internal coil resistance (typically 50-150 ohms) and verifying no continuity exists between coil terminals and case ground, which would indicate internal relay failure.
4
Step 4: If wiring and relay test good, suspect BCM internal fault. Disconnect BCM connector and test the relay control circuit wire for continuity to ground with all components disconnected. If circuit is clear, BCM likely has failed internal relay driver requiring module replacement.
5
Step 5: After repair, clear codes and perform functional test of one-touch window operation in both up and down directions. Verify code does not return and BCM properly controls relay during express window operation.
Estimated Repair Cost
$75 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an abnormal short-to-ground condition in the driver's power window one-touch relay circuit. The BCM monitors the relay control circuit and has identified that current is flowing to ground through an unintended path, which prevents p...
The most common cause of B1401 (Driver Power Window One Touch Window Relay Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness between BCM and window relay causing direct ground contact
Typical repair costs for B1401 range from $75 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this only affects the convenience one-touch window function. The window can typically still be operated in manual mode by holding the switch, though one-touch express feature will be disabled until repair is completed.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1401 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control System / Power Window System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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