What Does B1561 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short-to-voltage condition in the door lock cylinder switch circuit. The BCM monitors the door lock cylinder input and has identified that the circuit is seeing battery voltage when it should not, suggesting a direct short to power in the wiring, switch, or connector. This affects the vehicle's passive entry and security system operation.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to battery voltage in door lock cylinder circuit
30%
Failed door lock cylinder switch with internal short to power
15%
Corroded or moisture-damaged connector terminals creating short circuit path
10%
Body Control Module internal fault or damaged input circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of door lock cylinder wiring harness, particularly in door jamb area where wiring flexes. Look for pinched, chafed, or damaged insulation exposing bare wire that could contact power sources
2
Step 2: Disconnect door lock cylinder switch connector and measure voltage at the BCM-side harness terminal using a digital multimeter. Reading should be 0V with ignition on; battery voltage confirms wiring harness short
3
Step 3: If harness shows no voltage, inspect door lock cylinder switch connector for corrosion, pushed-out pins, or moisture intrusion. Clean connector with electrical contact cleaner and verify pin tension
4
Step 4: With connector still disconnected, check resistance of door lock cylinder switch across terminals. Should read open circuit (infinite resistance) at rest; continuity indicates failed switch
5
Step 5: Reconnect components and monitor live data for door lock cylinder circuit status while manipulating wiring harness through full range of motion to identify intermittent shorts
6
Step 6: Clear codes, cycle door lock cylinder multiple times, and verify code does not return. Test all door lock functions including key operation and remote entry to confirm repair
Estimated Repair Cost
$120 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short-to-voltage condition in the door lock cylinder switch circuit. The BCM monitors the door lock cylinder input and has identified that the circuit is seeing battery voltage when it should not, suggesting a direct short to power in ...
The most common cause of B1561 (Door Lock Cylinder Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to battery voltage in door lock cylinder circuit
Typical repair costs for B1561 range from $120 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to drive as this only affects door lock cylinder monitoring and does not impact vehicle operation. May prevent proper key-based door locking/unlocking or disable passive anti-theft features, creating potential security concerns but no immediate safety risk.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1561 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control and Security System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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