What Does B1698 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an electrical short to ground in the power mirror switch circuit that controls either the driver or passenger side mirror adjustments. The BCM monitors the switch input voltage and has detected an abnormally low voltage condition, indicating the circuit is shorted to chassis ground. This prevents proper mirror adjustment functionality through the switch assembly.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or pinched wiring harness between door jamb and door causing wire insulation breakdown and ground short
30%
Failed mirror switch assembly with internal short to ground
15%
Water intrusion in door panel causing corrosion and short circuit in switch or connector terminals
10%
Faulty BCM with internal circuit failure causing false short detection
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Visually inspect the door jamb area where the wiring harness passes from the body into the door, looking for pinched, chafed, or damaged wires. Flex the door open and closed while observing for wire movement or damage.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the mirror switch connector and use a digital multimeter to measure resistance between each switch circuit terminal and ground with the ignition off. Reading should be greater than 10k ohms; 0-5 ohms indicates a short to ground in the harness.
3
Step 3: If harness tests good, inspect the mirror switch assembly for signs of liquid intrusion, corrosion, or physical damage. Test switch internal resistance by measuring continuity across switch terminals while activating each mirror position.
4
Step 4: If switch tests good, disconnect BCM connector and measure resistance from the mirror switch circuit wire at the BCM connector to ground. High resistance (>10k ohms) suggests BCM internal fault; low resistance confirms wiring harness short.
5
Step 5: Repair or replace the faulty component (harness, switch, or BCM), reconnect all components, clear the code, and verify proper mirror operation in all directions. Cycle the door open and closed multiple times to confirm repair durability.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an electrical short to ground in the power mirror switch circuit that controls either the driver or passenger side mirror adjustments. The BCM monitors the switch input voltage and has detected an abnormally low voltage condition, indica...
The most common cause of B1698 (Mirror Driver/Passenger Switch Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or pinched wiring harness between door jamb and door causing wire insulation breakdown and ground short
Typical repair costs for B1698 range from $100 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 mirror adjustment convenience features and does not impact vehicle operation or safety systems. Repair can be scheduled at convenience, though functional mirrors are important for safe lane changes and backing maneuvers.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1698 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Electrical System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
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