What Does B1626 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short circuit to ground in the keypad illumination lamp circuit. The BCM monitors the output circuit that powers the keypad backlighting and has identified that current is flowing directly to ground instead of through the lamp load, causing excessive current draw or voltage drop. This affects the interior lighting system, specifically the keypad or entry system illumination.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged wiring harness or chafed wire insulation between BCM and keypad lamp, creating direct ground contact
30%
Failed or internally shorted keypad lamp assembly causing ground fault
15%
Corroded or moisture-damaged keypad connector causing short to ground
10%
Failed BCM lamp driver circuit with internal short
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of keypad lamp assembly and all associated wiring, looking for obvious damage, chafing, pinch points, or moisture intrusion at connectors. Check door jamb areas and routing paths where wiring flexes during door operation.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the keypad lamp connector at the lamp assembly. Using a digital multimeter, measure resistance between the lamp power wire (BCM output side) and chassis ground with ignition on. Reading should be infinite (open circuit). Less than 10 ohms indicates a wiring harness short to ground.
3
Step 3: If wiring tests good, measure resistance across the lamp assembly connector terminals. Compare to specification (typically 2-10 ohms for LED lamps). Near-zero resistance indicates internally shorted lamp assembly requiring replacement.
4
Step 4: If both lamp and wiring test normal, suspect BCM driver circuit. With lamp disconnected, use multimeter to measure voltage at BCM output wire with system activated. Should see battery voltage cycling or PWM signal. Continuous low voltage with high current draw indicates BCM failure.
5
Step 5: Repair identified fault (replace damaged wiring section, lamp assembly, or BCM as needed). Reconnect all components, clear codes, and cycle keypad illumination function multiple times to verify proper operation and confirm code does not return.
Estimated Repair Cost
$75 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short circuit to ground in the keypad illumination lamp circuit. The BCM monitors the output circuit that powers the keypad backlighting and has identified that current is flowing directly to ground instead of through the lamp load, ca...
The most common cause of B1626 (Lamp Keypad Output Short Circuit To Ground) is: Damaged wiring harness or chafed wire insulation between BCM and keypad lamp, creating direct ground contact
Typical repair costs for B1626 range from $75 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this only affects keypad illumination and does not impact vehicle operation or safety systems. Repair at convenience, though prolonged short circuit could potentially drain battery or damage BCM if left unaddressed for extended periods.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1626 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Interior Lighting and Body Control System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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