The B1475 trouble code indicates a fault within the accessory delay relay circuit, specifically a short to battery on the relay's contact side. This issue can prevent accessories like power windows, sunroof, and radio from functioning correctly after the ignition is turned off, impacting vehicle convenience and potentially draining the battery. Diagnosing and addressing this fault promptly is crucial to restoring proper accessory functionality and preventing further complications.
B1475 Code: A Comprehensive Overview
| Topic | Description | Potential Impact | Possible Causes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Code Definition | B1475: Accessory Delay Relay Contact Short To Battery. This means the relay contact, which should only receive power when activated, is constantly receiving battery voltage, even when it shouldn't. | Accessories remain powered even after ignition off, draining the battery. Inability to control accessory functions via the delay relay. Potential for overheating and damage to the relay, wiring, or connected accessories. | Shorted accessory delay relay. Damaged wiring harness (rubbed insulation, corrosion) creating a short to battery voltage. Faulty accessory control module (BCM, GEM) providing incorrect signals. Internal short within the accessory itself backfeeding voltage. Improper aftermarket wiring causing a short to battery. |
| Accessory Delay Relay Function | The accessory delay relay provides power to certain vehicle accessories for a short period (typically 10-30 minutes) after the ignition is turned off. This allows occupants to finish tasks like rolling up windows or listening to the radio without keeping the engine running. The Body Control Module (BCM) or Generic Electronic Module (GEM) usually controls the relay. | Loss of accessory delay functionality. Accessories may shut off immediately with the ignition, or they may remain on indefinitely, leading to battery drain. Inconvenience for vehicle occupants. Potential for damage to accessories designed to be powered down after a delay. | Faulty accessory delay relay. BCM/GEM malfunction. Wiring issues between the BCM/GEM and the relay. Faulty ignition switch preventing the BCM/GEM from properly signaling the relay. Incorrect programming of the BCM/GEM. |
| Symptoms | Accessories (power windows, sunroof, radio, etc.) remain powered on after the ignition is turned off. Battery drain. Inability to control accessories with the delay function. Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1475 present. Relay may be clicking or buzzing erratically. Blown fuses related to the accessory delay circuit. | Battery depletion. Vehicle may not start. Damaged accessories. Inability to use certain vehicle features. Increased risk of electrical fire. | Short circuit to battery voltage in the accessory delay relay circuit. Faulty accessory delay relay. Damaged BCM/GEM. Corroded or damaged wiring. Improperly installed aftermarket accessories. Failure in the accessory itself, causing backfeeding of voltage. |
| Diagnostic Steps | Visual inspection of wiring and connectors for damage. Testing the accessory delay relay. Checking voltage at the relay contacts. Using a multimeter to check for shorts to battery voltage. Scanning for other DTCs. Inspecting the BCM/GEM for damage. Checking the ignition switch signal. Isolating the affected circuit by disconnecting accessories one at a time. | Misdiagnosis of the root cause. Unnecessary replacement of parts. Wasted time and money. Further damage to the electrical system. | Inaccurate testing methods. Failure to properly inspect wiring. Ignoring other potential DTCs. Replacing parts without proper diagnosis. Lack of understanding of the accessory delay circuit. |
| Potential Solutions | Replacing the accessory delay relay. Repairing or replacing damaged wiring. Replacing the BCM/GEM (if faulty). Repairing or replacing the affected accessory. Correcting aftermarket wiring errors. Cleaning corroded connectors. Re-programming the BCM/GEM. | Improper repair. Continued battery drain. Recurring DTCs. Damage to other components. Vehicle malfunction. | Incorrect repair procedures. Using incorrect parts. Failing to properly diagnose the root cause. Overlooking related issues. Lack of expertise in automotive electrical systems. |
| Tools Required | Multimeter, wiring diagram, test light, scan tool, relay tester, wire strippers, crimpers, soldering iron (optional). | Difficulty in diagnosing and repairing the issue. Potential for damage to the vehicle's electrical system. Inability to properly test components. | Using incorrect tools. Lack of experience with automotive electrical tools. Failing to follow proper safety procedures. |
| Safety Precautions | Disconnect the negative battery cable before working on the electrical system. Use proper safety equipment (gloves, eye protection). Avoid working on the electrical system in wet conditions. Follow proper wiring procedures. Consult a qualified technician if you are not comfortable working on the electrical system. | Electric shock. Damage to the vehicle's electrical system. Personal injury. Fire hazard. | Ignoring safety precautions. Working on the electrical system without proper training. Using damaged or faulty tools. |
Detailed Explanations
Code Definition: The B1475 code signifies that the contact side of the accessory delay relay is experiencing a short to battery voltage. This means the relay contact, which should only receive power when the relay is activated by the BCM or GEM, is constantly receiving power from the battery, even when the ignition is off. This constant power supply bypasses the intended control mechanism of the relay.
Accessory Delay Relay Function: The accessory delay relay provides power to specific accessories for a short period after the ignition is turned off. This allows occupants to, for example, roll up the windows or listen to the radio without keeping the engine running. The Body Control Module (BCM) or Generic Electronic Module (GEM) usually controls this relay. The BCM/GEM sends a signal to the relay to activate it when the ignition is turned off, and then deactivates it after a predetermined time (usually 10-30 minutes).
Symptoms: The most common symptom of a B1475 code is that accessories like power windows, sunroof, and radio remain powered on even after the ignition is switched off and the key is removed. This can lead to battery drain, and the vehicle may not start. Other symptoms may include the inability to control accessories with the delay function, the presence of the B1475 DTC, a clicking or buzzing relay, and blown fuses related to the accessory delay circuit.
Diagnostic Steps: Diagnosing the B1475 code involves a systematic approach. Start with a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the accessory delay relay for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Then, test the accessory delay relay itself using a multimeter or relay tester. Check for voltage at the relay contacts and use a multimeter to check for shorts to battery voltage. Scan for other DTCs, as related codes can provide valuable clues. Inspect the BCM/GEM for damage and check the ignition switch signal to ensure it is functioning correctly. Finally, isolate the affected circuit by disconnecting accessories one at a time to pinpoint the source of the short.
Potential Solutions: The solution to a B1475 code depends on the underlying cause. Replacing the accessory delay relay is a common fix, especially if the relay is found to be faulty. Repairing or replacing damaged wiring is also often necessary. If the BCM/GEM is faulty, it may need to be replaced or reprogrammed. Repairing or replacing the affected accessory may be required if it is causing the short. Correcting aftermarket wiring errors and cleaning corroded connectors can also resolve the issue.
Tools Required: Diagnosing and repairing a B1475 code requires several tools. A multimeter is essential for measuring voltage and resistance. A wiring diagram is necessary for understanding the accessory delay circuit. A test light can be used to check for power and ground. A scan tool is needed to retrieve DTCs. A relay tester can be used to test the accessory delay relay. Wire strippers, crimpers, and a soldering iron (optional) are needed for repairing wiring.
Safety Precautions: When working on the electrical system of a vehicle, it is crucial to take proper safety precautions. Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on the electrical system to prevent electrical shock. Use proper safety equipment, such as gloves and eye protection. Avoid working on the electrical system in wet conditions. Follow proper wiring procedures and consult a qualified technician if you are not comfortable working on the electrical system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the B1475 code mean? The B1475 code means there is a short to battery voltage on the contact side of the accessory delay relay. This causes accessories to stay powered on even after the ignition is off.
What are the symptoms of a B1475 code? Common symptoms include accessories remaining powered on after the ignition is off, battery drain, and the inability to control accessories with the delay function.
Can a bad relay cause a B1475 code? Yes, a faulty accessory delay relay is a common cause of the B1475 code.
Is it safe to drive with a B1475 code? While driving is possible, it's not recommended due to the risk of battery drain and potential damage to electrical components. Address the issue as soon as possible.
How do I fix a B1475 code? Troubleshooting involves checking the relay, wiring, and related components for shorts or damage. Replacement or repair is typically required.
Conclusion
The B1475 code indicates a significant issue within the accessory delay relay circuit. Addressing this fault promptly is crucial to preventing battery drain, restoring proper accessory functionality, and ensuring the overall health of the vehicle's electrical system. A systematic diagnostic approach, combined with careful repair or replacement of faulty components, is essential for resolving this problem effectively.