What Does B1803 Mean?
DTC B1803 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an open circuit in the rear turn signal lamp output circuit. This means the BCM is commanding the rear turn signal to illuminate, but it is not detecting current flow through the circuit, suggesting a break in the electrical path between the BCM and the rear turn signal bulb. This prevents one or both rear turn signals from functioning properly, compromising vehicle communication with other drivers.
Common Causes
45%
Burned out or failed rear turn signal bulb with open filament
30%
Corroded or loose bulb socket connections causing intermittent or complete open circuit
15%
Damaged or broken wiring between BCM and rear turn signal assembly
10%
Failed BCM output driver circuit for turn signal control
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of rear turn signal bulbs by removing bulbs from sockets and checking for broken filaments or blackened glass. Test bulb continuity with multimeter (should read 2-5 ohms across terminals when functional).
2
Step 2: Inspect bulb sockets for corrosion, melted plastic, or damaged terminals. Clean socket contacts with electrical contact cleaner and wire brush if corrosion is present. Check socket ground connection for continuity to vehicle chassis (should read less than 1 ohm).
3
Step 3: With bulb removed and ignition on, activate turn signal and measure voltage at bulb socket connector using multimeter. Should see battery voltage (12-14V) pulsing on/off. If no voltage present, proceed to check wiring.
4
Step 4: Backprobe the BCM connector at the turn signal output circuit (refer to wiring diagram) and measure voltage while activating turn signal. If voltage present at BCM but not at socket, trace and repair open circuit in wiring harness between BCM and rear lamp assembly.
5
Step 5: If voltage is present at socket and bulb tests good, check for proper ground path by measuring voltage drop between socket ground and battery negative (should be less than 0.5V with lamp operating). Repair ground connection if excessive voltage drop exists.
6
Step 6: After repairs, clear codes, cycle turn signals multiple times, and verify DTC does not return. Test both left and right rear turn signals for proper operation and flash rate.
Estimated Repair Cost
$50 - $350
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
DTC B1803 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an open circuit in the rear turn signal lamp output circuit. This means the BCM is commanding the rear turn signal to illuminate, but it is not detecting current flow through the circuit, suggesting a break in the electrical path between...
The most common cause of B1803 (Lamp Turn Signal Rear Output Circuit Open) is: Burned out or failed rear turn signal bulb with open filament
Typical repair costs for B1803 range from $50 to $350, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Vehicle is legal to drive but rear turn signal functionality is compromised, significantly increasing risk of rear-end collisions when changing lanes or turning. Repair should be completed within 24-48 hours to maintain safe vehicle operation and avoid traffic citations.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1803 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Exterior Lighting System
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