WOMS
B code body Medium severity

B1696 Autolamp On Circuit Short To Ground

The OBD2 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

Definition

The OBD2 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

Common causes

  • 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 misdiagnoses

  • 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

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. 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

  2. 2. Visual Inspection

    Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the autolamp system. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections

  3. 3. Fuses

    Check the relevant fuses in the fuse box. A blown fuse can sometimes indicate a short circuit

  4. 4. 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

  5. 5. 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

  6. 6. Resistance Check

    Measure the resistance in the circuit. A very low resistance reading may indicate a short to ground

  7. 7. Inspect Ground Connections

    Check all ground connections related to the autolamp circuit. Ensure they are clean, tight, and free of corrosion

  8. 8. 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

  9. 9. 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

  10. 10. 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

  11. 11. 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

  12. 12. 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

  13. 13. 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