B1260 – Solar Radiation Sensor Circuit Short To Battery

The ODBII code B1260 indicates a malfunction in the solar radiation sensor circuit, specifically that there is a short circuit to the battery, which may affect the vehicle’s climate control or other systems relying on solar radiation data.

The severity of ODBII code B1260 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1259 Solar Radiation Sensor Circuit Open

• Shorted wiring or connectors
• Faulty solar radiation sensor
• Corroded or damaged electrical connections
• Malfunctioning power supply to the sensor
• Grounding issues
• Incorrect installation or mounting of the sensor

Common misdiagnosis for B1260 Solar Radiation Sensor Circuit Short To Battery

• Faulty solar radiation sensor
• Wiring issues or shorts in the harness
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly calibrated or faulty ambient light sensor
• Issues with the vehicle’s electrical system or battery
• Problems with the HVAC control module
• Software or firmware issues in the vehicle’s computer systems

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1260, which indicates a “Solar Radiation Sensor Circuit Short To Battery,” you can follow these common troubleshooting steps:

• Check the Vehicle’s Manual: Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific information regarding the solar radiation sensor and its circuit. This will provide you with wiring diagrams and component locations.
• Visual Inspection:
• Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the solar radiation sensor for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Look for any frayed wires or exposed conductors that could be causing a short circuit.
• Test the Solar Radiation Sensor:
• Disconnect the solar radiation sensor and check its resistance with a multimeter. Compare the readings to the specifications in the service manual.
• If the sensor is out of specification, it may need to be replaced.
• Check for Short Circuits:
• With the sensor disconnected, use a multimeter to check for continuity between the sensor circuit wires and the battery voltage. A short circuit will show continuity where there should be none.
• Inspect the wiring harness for any points where the wires may be pinched or damaged, causing a short to the battery.
• Inspect the Power and Ground Circuits:
• Verify that the power supply to the solar radiation sensor is within the specified voltage range.
• Check the ground connection for the sensor to ensure it is secure and has a good connection.
• Scan for Additional Codes:
• Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other trouble codes that may be present. Sometimes, multiple codes can provide additional context for the issue.
• Clear the Codes:
• After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Consult a Professional:
• If the issue persists after performing these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician who has experience with your specific vehicle make and model. By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue related to the B1260 code.