B1638 – Mirror Driver Right Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1638 indicates a short circuit condition in the right mirror driver circuit, meaning there is an unintended connection to ground that is affecting the operation of the right side mirror.

The severity of ODBII code B1638 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1637 Mirror Driver Right Circuit Short To Battery

• Faulty right mirror driver module
• Shorted wiring or connectors
• Damaged mirror motor
• Corroded or damaged ground connections
• Malfunctioning switch or control module
• Water intrusion or moisture damage
• Incorrect installation or aftermarket modifications

Common misdiagnosis for B1638 Mirror Driver Right Short To Ground

• Faulty mirror assembly
• Wiring harness issues
• Shorted wiring
• Faulty body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly installed or damaged connectors
• Malfunctioning power window switch
• Grounding issues in the electrical system

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code B1638 indicates a “Mirror Driver Right Short to Ground” issue, which typically relates to the right side mirror’s electrical system in a vehicle. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and potentially resolve this issue:

• Visual Inspection:
• Check the wiring harness and connectors leading to the right side mirror for any visible damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• Inspect the mirror assembly for any signs of physical damage or water intrusion.
• Check for Shorts:
• Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring. Disconnect the mirror connector and test the wires for shorts to ground.
• If you find a short, trace the wiring back to locate the source of the short circuit.
• Inspect the Mirror Motor:
• The mirror motor itself could be shorted. Disconnect the motor and test it separately to see if it operates correctly.
• If the motor is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
• Check the Control Module:
• If the wiring and mirror motor are in good condition, the issue may lie within the control module that manages the mirror functions. Check for any fault codes related to the control module.
• If necessary, reprogram or replace the control module.
• Test the Switch:
• Inspect the mirror control switch for proper operation. A faulty switch can cause incorrect signals to be sent to the mirror motor.
• Test the switch with a multimeter to ensure it is functioning correctly.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive:
• After performing repairs, clear the OBD-II codes using a scan tool and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Consult Wiring Diagrams:
• Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for wiring diagrams to better understand the electrical system and pinpoint potential issues.
• Professional Diagnosis:
• If the problem persists after performing these steps, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or an automotive electrician who can perform more advanced diagnostics. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1638 code. Always ensure safety precautions are taken when working with electrical systems in vehicles.