Introduction
The B1379 trouble code indicates a "Oil Change Reset Button Circuit Short To Ground" issue within a vehicle's onboard diagnostic (OBD) system. This code signifies that the electrical circuit connected to the oil change reset button has an unintended connection to ground, causing a malfunction. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to ensure the oil change reminder system functions correctly, preventing potential engine damage due to neglected maintenance.
Comprehensive Table: B1379 Oil Change Reset Button Circuit Short To Ground
| Topic | Description | Potential Causes |
|---|---|---|
| B1379 Code Definition | Oil Change Reset Button Circuit Short To Ground - indicates an electrical short to ground within the circuit of the oil change reset button. This prevents the system from functioning properly and resetting the oil life monitor. | Damaged wiring harness, chafed or frayed wires grounding against metal components; Faulty oil change reset button; Corroded connectors; Water intrusion into the circuit; Failed Body Control Module (BCM) or instrument cluster; Aftermarket accessory installation interfering with the circuit; Rodent damage to wiring. |
| Symptoms | Oil change light remains on even after attempting to reset; Inability to reset the oil life monitor; Intermittent oil change light illumination; Other electrical issues may be present depending on the severity and location of the short; Diagnostic trouble code B1379 present. | Constant reminder light on the dash; Inability to reset the oil life monitor system; Erratic readings or behavior from other systems sharing the same ground; Blown fuses related to the instrument cluster or body control module. |
| Diagnostic Steps | Visual inspection of wiring and connectors; Testing the oil change reset button; Checking for voltage at the reset button connector; Performing a continuity test to identify the short to ground; Inspecting the Body Control Module (BCM) and instrument cluster; Reviewing vehicle-specific wiring diagrams; Using a scan tool to monitor circuit behavior. | Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for damage; Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the reset button circuit and ground; Test the reset button itself for proper function; Check the BCM and instrument cluster for any signs of damage or corrosion; Consult vehicle-specific wiring diagrams to pinpoint the exact location of the short. |
| Possible Solutions | Repairing or replacing damaged wiring; Replacing the oil change reset button; Cleaning corroded connectors; Isolating and repairing the short to ground; Replacing the Body Control Module (BCM) or instrument cluster (in rare cases); Correcting aftermarket accessory wiring issues. | Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors; Replacing the faulty oil change reset button; Cleaning corroded connectors with electrical contact cleaner; Isolating and repairing the short to ground by tracing the wiring; Replacing a faulty BCM or instrument cluster (after thorough diagnosis); Removing or correcting aftermarket accessory wiring. |
| Tools Required | Multimeter; Scan tool; Wiring diagrams; Electrical tape; Wire strippers; Crimping tool; Electrical contact cleaner; Protective gloves and eyewear. | Multimeter for testing continuity and voltage; Scan tool for reading diagnostic trouble codes; Wiring diagrams for tracing the circuit; Wire strippers and crimpers for repairing wiring; Electrical tape for insulating repaired wires; Electrical contact cleaner for cleaning corroded connectors. |
| Related Codes | Other body control module (BCM) related codes; Instrument cluster malfunction codes; U codes (network communication issues). | U1000 (Communication Bus Fault); B1000 (Control Module Fault); B1370 (Illumination Control Circuit Malfunction); Any codes related to the instrument cluster or BCM could indicate a related issue. |
| Safety Precautions | Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical components; Use proper safety equipment, such as gloves and eyewear; Avoid working in wet conditions; Consult the vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions. | Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shock; Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes; Avoid working on electrical components in wet conditions; Properly insulate any repaired wiring to prevent future shorts. |
| Complexity Level | Moderate - requires basic electrical troubleshooting skills and knowledge of vehicle wiring systems. | Understanding of electrical circuits; Ability to use a multimeter; Familiarity with vehicle wiring diagrams; Experience with diagnosing and repairing electrical faults. |
| Cost to Repair | Varies depending on the cause and extent of the damage. A simple wiring repair may be inexpensive, while replacing the BCM or instrument cluster can be costly. | Wiring repair: $50 - $200; Reset button replacement: $50 - $150; BCM replacement: $300 - $1000 (including labor); Instrument cluster replacement: $200 - $800 (including labor). |
Detailed Explanations
B1379 Code Definition: The B1379 code is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that indicates the oil change reset button circuit has a short to ground. This means that the electrical wire or component in the oil change reset button circuit is making unintended contact with the vehicle's chassis or another grounded metal part. This short circuit can prevent the oil change reminder system from being reset after an oil change, leading to a persistent warning light.
Symptoms: The most obvious symptom is that the oil change light remains illuminated on the dashboard, even after attempting to reset it using the designated procedure. Another symptom is the complete inability to reset the oil life monitor system through the normal button sequence. In some cases, depending on the severity and location of the short, other seemingly unrelated electrical issues might be present due to the disrupted grounding. The presence of the B1379 diagnostic trouble code itself confirms the problem.
Diagnostic Steps: The diagnostic process begins with a thorough visual inspection of the wiring and connectors associated with the oil change reset button. This involves looking for any signs of damage, corrosion, or chafing. Next, the oil change reset button itself should be tested to ensure it functions correctly. Checking for voltage at the reset button connector is also important to verify power supply. A continuity test using a multimeter can help identify the exact location of the short to ground. Further investigation may involve inspecting the Body Control Module (BCM) and instrument cluster, and reviewing vehicle-specific wiring diagrams for accurate circuit tracing. Finally, a scan tool can be used to monitor the behavior of the circuit in real-time.
Possible Solutions: The appropriate solution depends on the root cause of the short to ground. If the wiring is damaged, it needs to be repaired or replaced. A faulty oil change reset button should be replaced with a new one. Corroded connectors should be cleaned thoroughly using electrical contact cleaner. The short to ground itself needs to be isolated and repaired, which might involve tracing the wiring to find the point of contact. In rare cases, a faulty Body Control Module (BCM) or instrument cluster may need to be replaced. If aftermarket accessories are interfering with the circuit, their wiring needs to be corrected.
Tools Required: A multimeter is essential for testing continuity and voltage. A scan tool is needed for reading diagnostic trouble codes and monitoring circuit behavior. Wiring diagrams are crucial for tracing the circuit and identifying components. Wire strippers and crimping tools are necessary for repairing damaged wiring. Electrical tape is used for insulating repaired wires. Electrical contact cleaner helps clean corroded connectors. Finally, protective gloves and eyewear are recommended for safety.
Related Codes: The B1379 code may be accompanied by other related codes, such as those pertaining to the Body Control Module (BCM), instrument cluster malfunctions, or U codes indicating network communication issues. For example, a U1000 code (Communication Bus Fault) or a B1000 code (Control Module Fault) could suggest a more widespread problem affecting multiple systems. Other B codes related to the instrument cluster or BCM may also be present.
Safety Precautions: Before working on any electrical components, always disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shock. Use proper safety equipment, such as gloves and eyewear, to protect yourself from potential hazards. Avoid working in wet conditions, as this increases the risk of electrical shock. Consult the vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines.
Complexity Level: Diagnosing and repairing a B1379 code is generally considered to be of moderate complexity. It requires basic electrical troubleshooting skills and a good understanding of vehicle wiring systems. Familiarity with using a multimeter and reading wiring diagrams is essential. While a mechanically inclined individual might be able to tackle this repair, it is often best left to a qualified technician.
Cost to Repair: The cost to repair a B1379 code can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause and the extent of the damage. A simple wiring repair might be relatively inexpensive, while replacing the BCM or instrument cluster can be a more costly undertaking. Labor costs will also contribute to the overall expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the B1379 code mean?
The B1379 code indicates a short to ground in the oil change reset button circuit, preventing the system from functioning correctly.
Can I reset the oil change light myself?
You can attempt to reset the light, but if the B1379 code is present, the underlying short must be addressed first.
Is it safe to drive with the B1379 code?
While driving is generally safe, the oil change reminder system won't function, potentially leading to neglected maintenance.
How do I find the short to ground?
Use a multimeter and wiring diagrams to systematically test the circuit and pinpoint the location of the short.
When should I take my car to a mechanic?
If you lack the necessary skills or tools to diagnose and repair the issue, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.
Conclusion
The B1379 "Oil Change Reset Button Circuit Short To Ground" code signifies a problem within the vehicle's electrical system that prevents the oil change reminder system from functioning properly. Thorough diagnosis and repair are essential to ensure accurate maintenance reminders and prevent potential engine damage.