B1214 – Running Board Lamp Circuit Failure

The ODBII code B1214 indicates a failure in the running board lamp circuit, which may involve issues such as a short circuit, open circuit, or malfunctioning components related to the running board lights.

The severity of ODBII code B1214 is generally considered low.

Common Causes For: B1213 Anti-Theft Number of Programmed Keys Is Below Minimum

• Faulty running board lamp
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Short circuit in the circuit
• Open circuit in the circuit
• Blown fuse
• Faulty body control module (BCM)
• Corrosion in connectors or terminals

Common misdiagnosis for B1214 Running Board Lamp Circuit Failure

• Faulty body control module (BCM)
• Short circuit in wiring harness
• Faulty running board lamp
• Poor ground connection
• Incorrectly installed or damaged running board
• Issues with other lighting circuits
• Faulty switch or relay associated with the running board lamp

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code B1214 indicates a “Running Board Lamp Circuit Failure.” This code is typically associated with vehicles that have running boards equipped with lights. When troubleshooting this code, you can follow these common steps:

• Check the Vehicle’s Manual: Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific information about the running board lamp circuit, including wiring diagrams and component locations.
• Visual Inspection:
• Inspect the running board lamps for any physical damage or burnt-out bulbs.
• Check the wiring harness and connectors for signs of wear, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Look for any signs of water intrusion or damage in the area where the running board lamps are located.
• Test the Bulbs:
• Remove the running board lamp bulbs and test them with a multimeter or replace them with known good bulbs to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Check the Fuses:
• Locate the fuse box and check for any blown fuses related to the running board lamps. Replace any blown fuses and see if the code clears.
• Inspect the Ground Connection:
• Ensure that the ground connection for the running board lamp circuit is secure and free of corrosion. A poor ground can cause circuit failures.
• Test the Circuit:
• Use a multimeter to check for voltage at the running board lamp connectors. If there is no voltage, trace the wiring back to the source to identify any breaks or shorts in the circuit.
• Check the Control Module:
• If the wiring and bulbs are in good condition, the issue may lie with the body control module (BCM) or another control module that manages the running board lamps. Check for any software updates or faults in the module.
• Clear the Code:
• After performing the necessary repairs, clear the OBD-II code using a scan tool and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Professional Diagnosis:
• If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician who can perform more advanced diagnostics. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1214 code.