What Does B1553 Mean?
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the decklid (trunk) release circuit. The control module expects to see a specific voltage pattern when commanding the trunk release actuator, but instead sees constant battery voltage (12V+) on the circuit. This suggests that the circuit is receiving unintended power, either through damaged wiring insulation, a faulty relay stuck closed, or a shorted trunk release solenoid/actuator.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to power wire in trunk/decklid area
30%
Failed trunk release solenoid/actuator with internal short to power
15%
Faulty trunk release relay stuck in closed position
10%
Body Control Module internal driver circuit failure
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of trunk/decklid release wiring harness from BCM connector to actuator, focusing on hinge areas and pinch points where wiring may be damaged or chafed against metal surfaces
2
Step 2: Disconnect the trunk release actuator/solenoid connector and use a digital multimeter to measure voltage at the BCM-side connector terminal with ignition on - should read 0V; if battery voltage present, issue is in wiring between BCM and actuator
3
Step 3: With actuator disconnected, measure resistance of the actuator coil terminals - typical reading 3-8 ohms; also check resistance from each terminal to ground - should read infinite/OL (open circuit); low resistance to ground indicates internal short
4
Step 4: Locate and test trunk release relay (if equipped) by removing it and checking for continuity between power terminals - should be open; also swap with identical relay to test; if no relay present, check BCM connector pins for corrosion or pushed-back terminals
5
Step 5: If all components test good, inspect BCM connector for water intrusion, corrosion, or bent pins; perform voltage drop test on ground circuit while commanding release function (if BCM operational)
6
Step 6: Repair or replace identified faulty component, clear codes, and cycle trunk release function multiple times to verify proper operation and confirm code does not return
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $600
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the decklid (trunk) release circuit. The control module expects to see a specific voltage pattern when commanding the trunk release actuator, but instead sees constant battery voltage (12V+) on the circ...
The most common cause of B1553 (Decklid Release Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to power wire in trunk/decklid area
Typical repair costs for B1553 range from $100 to $600, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This is safe to drive with as it only affects trunk release convenience function. The main concern is potential battery drain if the actuator is continuously powered, and possible inability to open trunk electronically. Repair at your convenience but do not delay if trunk cannot be opened.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1553 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control/Convenience Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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