B1215 – Running Board Lamp Circuit Short to Battery

The ODBII code B1215 indicates a short circuit in the running board lamp circuit, meaning there is an unintended connection to the battery, causing the lamp to receive power continuously.

The severity of ODBII code B1215 is generally considered moderate.

Common Causes For: B1214 Running Board Lamp Circuit Failure

• Shorted wiring or connectors
• Faulty running board lamp assembly
• Corroded or damaged connectors
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly installed or damaged aftermarket accessories
• Grounding issues
• Water intrusion or moisture damage

Common misdiagnosis for B1215 Running Board Lamp Circuit Short to Battery

• Faulty running board lamp
• Shorted wiring harness
• Defective body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly installed or damaged fuse
• Malfunctioning relay
• Grounding issues
• Faulty door switch
• Incorrectly diagnosed electrical connections

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1215, which indicates a “Running Board Lamp Circuit Short to Battery,” you can follow these common troubleshooting steps:

• Verify the Code: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm that the B1215 code is present. Clear the code and see if it returns after a short drive.
• Inspect the Wiring and Connectors:
• Check the wiring harness and connectors associated with the running board lamps for any signs of damage, such as fraying, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Look for any exposed wires that may be shorting to the vehicle’s chassis or other components.
• Check the Running Board Lamp Assembly:
• Inspect the running board lamp assembly itself for any signs of damage or water intrusion that could cause a short circuit.
• If the lamps are LED, ensure that they are functioning correctly and not causing a short.
• Test the Circuit:
• Use a multimeter to test the voltage and continuity in the running board lamp circuit. Check for proper voltage at the lamp connector and ensure that there is no continuity to ground when the circuit is not activated.
• If you find voltage where it shouldn’t be, trace the wiring back to find the source of the short.
• Check the Ground Connection:
• Ensure that the ground connection for the running board lamp circuit is secure and free of corrosion. A poor ground can sometimes cause erratic behavior in the circuit.
• Inspect Related Fuses and Relays:
• Check the fuse associated with the running board lamps to see if it is blown. Replace it if necessary and see if the code returns.
• If applicable, check any relays that control the running board lamps.
• Look for Aftermarket Modifications:
• If there are any aftermarket accessories or modifications related to the lighting system, inspect them for proper installation and function. They could be causing the short.
• Consult Wiring Diagrams:
• Refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagrams to understand the circuit layout and identify any potential points of failure.
• Perform a Visual Inspection:
• Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the entire running board lamp circuit, including any connectors, junctions, and the body control module (BCM) if applicable.
• Replace Faulty Components:
• If you identify any damaged wiring, connectors, or components, replace them as necessary. 1
• Recheck for Codes:
• After making repairs, clear the codes and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the B1215 code returns. If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, it may be advisable to consult a professional mechanic or technician who can perform more advanced diagnostics.