B1217 – Horn Relay Coil Circuit Failure

The ODBII code B1217 indicates a failure in the horn relay coil circuit, which may involve issues such as an open or short circuit in the wiring or a malfunctioning horn relay itself.

The severity of ODBII code B1217 is generally considered low.

Common Causes For: B1216 Emergency & Road Side Assistance Switch Circuit Short to Ground

• Faulty horn relay
• Open or shorted wiring in the horn relay circuit
• Corroded or poor connections in the circuit
• Faulty horn switch
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Blown fuse related to the horn circuit
• Grounding issues in the circuit

Common misdiagnosis for B1217 Horn Relay Coil Circuit Failure

• Faulty horn
• Bad horn switch
• Wiring issues or shorts in the circuit
• Faulty relay
• Body control module (BCM) issues
• Grounding problems
• Incorrectly diagnosed electrical issues elsewhere in the vehicle

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code B1217 indicates a problem with the horn relay coil circuit. This code can be triggered by various issues, including electrical faults, relay failures, or problems in the wiring. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve the issue:

• Check the Horn Functionality:
• Ensure that the horn itself is functioning properly. You can do this by directly connecting the horn to a power source to see if it sounds.
• Inspect the Horn Relay:
• Locate the horn relay in the fuse box or relay panel. Check for any visible signs of damage or corrosion.
• Swap the horn relay with another relay of the same type (if available) to see if the problem persists.
• Examine the Wiring and Connectors:
• Inspect the wiring leading to the horn and the relay for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• Check the connectors for secure connections and any signs of corrosion or dirt.
• Test the Relay Circuit:
• Use a multimeter to test the relay coil circuit. Check for continuity and proper voltage at the relay terminals when the horn button is pressed.
• If there is no voltage, trace the wiring back to the horn switch and check for any breaks or shorts.
• Check the Horn Switch:
• Inspect the horn switch on the steering wheel or dashboard. Ensure it is functioning correctly and making proper contact.
• If necessary, test the switch for continuity when pressed.
• Inspect the Fuse:
• Check the fuse associated with the horn circuit. If the fuse is blown, replace it and see if the issue is resolved.
• Scan for Additional Codes:
• Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context to the issue.
• Check Ground Connections:
• Ensure that all ground connections related to the horn circuit are secure and free of corrosion.
• Consult Wiring Diagrams:
• Refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagrams to understand the circuit layout and identify any potential issues in the wiring harness.
• Professional Diagnosis:
• If the issue persists after performing these steps, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who can perform more advanced diagnostics. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1217 code.