WOMS
C code chassis Medium severity

C1961 Park Lamp Relay Coil Circuit Failure

The OBD2 code C1961 indicates a failure in the park lamp relay coil circuit, which may involve issues such as an open circuit, short circuit, or malfunctioning relay affecting the operation of the park lamps

Definition

The OBD2 code C1961 indicates a failure in the park lamp relay coil circuit, which may involve issues such as an open circuit, short circuit, or malfunctioning relay affecting the operation of the park lamps

Common causes

  • Faulty park lamp relay
  • Damaged wiring or connectors
  • Short circuit in the park lamp circuit
  • Open circuit in the park lamp relay coil
  • Faulty body control module (BCM)
  • Corroded terminals or connections
  • Blown fuse related to the park lamp circuit

Common misdiagnoses

  • Faulty park lamp bulbs
  • Bad park lamp switch
  • Wiring issues or shorts in the circuit
  • Faulty body control module (BCM)
  • Defective relay
  • Grounding issues
  • Incorrectly installed or damaged connectors

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Check the Vehicle's Manual

    Refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific information related to the park lamp relay and its circuit. This can provide insights into the relay's location and wiring diagrams

  2. 2. Visual Inspection

    Inspect the Relay: Locate the park lamp relay and visually inspect it for any signs of damage, corrosion, or burnt contacts

  3. 3. Check Wiring and Connectors

    Look for damaged, frayed, or corroded wires and connectors in the park lamp relay circuit. Pay special attention to ground connections

  4. 4. Test the Relay

    Swap the Relay: If the park lamp relay is removable, consider swapping it with a similar relay in the fuse box to see if the issue persists

  5. 5. Bench Test the Relay

    If you have the means, test the relay outside of the vehicle to ensure it operates correctly

  6. 6. Check for Power and Ground

    Use a Multimeter: Check for voltage at the relay terminals with the ignition on. Ensure that the relay is receiving power

  7. 7. Ground Check

    Verify that the relay has a good ground connection. A poor ground can cause circuit failures

  8. 8. Inspect the Park Lamp Circuit

    Check Bulbs: Inspect the park lamp bulbs to ensure they are functioning correctly. A burnt-out bulb can sometimes trigger circuit issues

  9. 9. Test the Circuit

    Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the park lamp circuit. Look for any breaks or shorts in the wiring

  10. 10. Scan for Additional Codes

    Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context or indicate related issues

  11. 11. Check for Short Circuits

    Inspect the wiring for any signs of short circuits, especially in areas where the wiring may rub against metal or other components

  12. 12. Inspect the Body Control Module (BCM)

    If all else checks out, the issue may lie within the Body Control Module (BCM) that controls the park lamp relay. Check for any faults or software updates that may be needed

  13. 13. Clear Codes and Test Drive

    After performing repairs or replacements, clear the trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns

  14. 14. Consult a Professional

    If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, it may be best 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 identify and address the cause of the C1961 code effectively