B1696 – Autolamp On Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1696 indicates a short circuit to ground in the autolamp on circuit, which typically means there is an electrical fault causing the autolamp system to malfunction.

The severity of ODBII code B1696 Autolamp On Circuit Short To Ground is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1695 Autolamp On Circuit Short To Battery

• Damaged wiring or connectors in the autolamp circuit.
• Short circuit in the autolamp switch.
• Faulty autolamp relay.
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM).
• Corroded or loose ground connections.

Common misdiagnosis for B1696 Autolamp On Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty headlight switch
• Defective body control module (BCM)
• Wiring harness issues
• Shorted or damaged wiring
• Malfunctioning relay
• Incorrectly installed aftermarket lighting
• Faulty sensors or switches related to lighting
• Grounding issues unrelated to the autolamp circuit

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with OBD-II code B1696, which indicates a “Short to Ground” in the Autolamp On Circuit, there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Understand the Code: B1696 typically relates to the autolamp system, which automatically turns on the vehicle’s lights based on ambient light conditions. A short to ground means that the circuit is being unintentionally connected to ground, which can cause the system to malfunction.
• Visual Inspection: **Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the autolamp system. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections.
• **Fuses: Check the relevant fuses in the fuse box. A blown fuse can sometimes indicate a short circuit.
• Check the Autolamp Sensor: If your vehicle is equipped with an autolamp sensor (usually located on the dashboard or windshield), inspect it for damage or misalignment. Ensure it is clean and functioning properly.
• Use a Multimeter: **Continuity Test: With the vehicle off, use a multimeter to check for continuity in the autolamp circuit. Disconnect the battery and the relevant connectors before testing.
• **Resistance Check: Measure the resistance in the circuit. A very low resistance reading may indicate a short to ground.
• Inspect Ground Connections: Check all ground connections related to the autolamp circuit. Ensure they are clean, tight, and free of corrosion.
• Check for Shorts: With the wiring harness connected, use the multimeter to check for shorts to ground. You can do this by measuring resistance between the circuit wire and ground. A low resistance indicates a short.
• Scan Tool Data: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional codes that may provide more context. Look at live data to see if the autolamp system is receiving the correct inputs.
• Inspect Related Components: Check other components that may be related to the autolamp system, such as the body control module (BCM) or any relays involved in the circuit.
• Repair or Replace: Based on your findings, repair any damaged wiring or connectors. If a component (like the autolamp sensor or BCM) is faulty, consider replacing it.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: After making repairs, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.1
• Consult Service Manual: If the issue persists, consult the vehicle’s service manual for specific wiring diagrams and troubleshooting procedures related to the autolamp system.1
• Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with electrical systems. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the B1696 code.