B code body Medium severity

B1373 Illuminated Entry Relay Short To Battery

The OBD2 code B1373 indicates a malfunction in the illuminated entry relay, specifically a short circuit to the battery, which may cause the interior lights to remain on or not function properly

Definition

The OBD2 code B1373 indicates a malfunction in the illuminated entry relay, specifically a short circuit to the battery, which may cause the interior lights to remain on or not function properly

Common causes

  • Faulty illuminated entry relay
  • Short circuit in wiring harness
  • Corroded or damaged connectors
  • Malfunctioning door switches
  • Faulty body control module (BCM)
  • Incorrectly installed aftermarket accessories
  • Water intrusion or moisture damage

Common misdiagnoses

  • Faulty door switch
  • Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
  • Wiring issues or shorts in the harness
  • Defective interior lights
  • Battery issues or poor connections
  • Faulty ignition switch
  • Problems with the key fob or remote entry system

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Check the Vehicle's Battery and Connections

    Inspect Battery Voltage: Ensure the battery is fully charged and in good condition

  2. 2. Examine Battery Connections

    Check for corrosion, loose connections, or damaged cables at the battery terminals

  3. 3. Inspect the Illuminated Entry Relay

    Locate the Relay: Find the illuminated entry relay in the vehicle’s fuse box or relay panel

  4. 4. Visual Inspection

    Check for any signs of damage, burning, or corrosion on the relay

  5. 5. Test the Relay

    If possible, swap the relay with a similar one (if available) to see if the problem persists

  6. 6. Check Wiring and Connectors

    Inspect Wiring Harness: Look for damaged, frayed, or shorted wires leading to the illuminated entry relay

  7. 7. Check Connectors

    Ensure that all connectors are secure and free from corrosion or damage

  8. 8. Test the Circuit

    Use a Multimeter: Measure the voltage at the relay terminals to see if it is receiving the correct voltage

  9. 9. Check for Shorts

    Use the multimeter to check for continuity in the circuit and identify any shorts to ground or battery

  10. 10. Examine Related Components

    Look for Other Faulty Components: Check other components that may be related to the illuminated entry system, such as door switches, body control module (BCM), or any other associated relays

  11. 11. Inspect Door Switches

    Ensure that the door switches are functioning correctly and not stuck in the "on" position

  12. 12. Scan for Additional Codes

    Check for Other DTCs: Use an OBD-II scanner to see if there are any other diagnostic trouble codes that may provide additional context for the issue

  13. 13. Clear the Code and Test Drive

    Clear the Code: After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the code using an OBD-II scanner

  14. 14. Test Drive the Vehicle

    Drive the vehicle to see if the code reappears. Monitor the illuminated entry system to ensure it functions correctly

  15. 15. Consult a Professional

    If the issue persists after performing these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic or technician who can perform more advanced diagnostics.Additional Tips: - Always refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific wiring diagrams and relay locations. - Take safety precautions when working with electrical components, including disconnecting the battery when necessary. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1373 code