Introduction:

The B1692 trouble code indicates a fault within the auto lamp delay circuit of a vehicle, specifically a short to ground. This circuit controls the duration for which the headlights remain illuminated after the ignition is turned off, providing illumination for the driver and passengers when exiting the vehicle. A short to ground in this circuit can lead to various issues, including battery drain, malfunctioning headlights, and potential damage to the vehicle's electrical system.

Table: B1692 Auto Lamp Delay Circuit Short to Ground - Details, Symptoms, and Solutions

Topic Description Potential Solutions
Definition of B1692 Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicating a short to ground within the auto lamp delay circuit. This means the circuit is unintentionally connected to the vehicle's chassis ground, allowing electricity to flow where it shouldn't. N/A - This is a definition.
Auto Lamp Delay Circuit Function The circuit designed to keep the headlights illuminated for a predetermined period after the ignition is switched off. This provides courtesy lighting for the driver and passengers when exiting the vehicle, enhancing safety and convenience. The delay time is usually adjustable or pre-set within the vehicle's settings. N/A - This is a functional description.
Common Causes Damaged wiring insulation leading to exposed wires touching the vehicle's chassis. Faulty auto lamp delay relay or module. Corrosion within connectors or wiring harnesses, creating a conductive path to ground. Improper aftermarket electrical installations interfering with the circuit. * Physical damage to the wiring harness due to impacts or rubbing against sharp edges. Inspect and repair or replace damaged wiring. Replace faulty relay or module. Clean corroded connectors and apply dielectric grease. Correct any improper aftermarket installations. * Secure wiring harnesses to prevent future damage.
Symptoms Headlights remain on constantly, even with the ignition off. Headlights do not illuminate at all. Excessive battery drain. Intermittent headlight operation. Burning smell emanating from the electrical system. Dim or flickering headlights. * Other electrical malfunctions within the vehicle. N/A - These are symptoms, indicating a problem requiring diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostic Tools Multimeter for testing voltage, continuity, and resistance. Wiring diagrams to trace the circuit. Scan tool to read and clear DTCs. Visual inspection tools (e.g., flashlight, inspection mirror). * Circuit tester or test light. N/A - These are tools used for diagnosis.
Diagnostic Procedure 1. Verify the DTC B1692 is present using a scan tool. 2. Consult the vehicle's wiring diagram to identify the auto lamp delay circuit components and wiring routing. 3. Visually inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage, corrosion, or chafing. 4. Use a multimeter to test the continuity between the circuit wires and the vehicle's chassis ground. 5. Isolate the short by disconnecting components one at a time and retesting for continuity. 6. Once the short is located, repair or replace the affected wiring or component. N/A - This is a procedural outline.
Component Location The location of the auto lamp delay relay or module varies depending on the vehicle make and model. Common locations include: Under the dashboard. Inside the engine compartment fuse box. Behind the glove compartment. Integrated within the Body Control Module (BCM). Consult the vehicle's repair manual or wiring diagram to determine the specific location of the auto lamp delay component.
Wiring Diagram Interpretation Wiring diagrams provide a visual representation of the electrical circuit, including wire colors, component locations, and circuit pathways. Understanding wiring diagrams is crucial for diagnosing electrical faults. Key elements to identify include: Power source. Ground points. Relays and switches. Fuses and circuit breakers. * Load devices (e.g., headlights). N/A - This is a conceptual explanation.
Safety Precautions Disconnect the negative battery cable before working on the electrical system. Use appropriate safety glasses and gloves. Avoid working on the electrical system in wet conditions. Be careful when working around sharp edges or hot engine components. * Double-check all connections before reconnecting the battery. N/A - These are safety guidelines.
Voltage Drop Testing A voltage drop test measures the voltage loss across a circuit or component. Excessive voltage drop indicates resistance in the circuit, which can be caused by corrosion, loose connections, or damaged wiring. This test can help pinpoint the location of a short to ground. Use a multimeter to measure the voltage drop across each section of the circuit. Compare the measured voltage drop to the manufacturer's specifications.
Resistance Testing Resistance testing measures the opposition to current flow in a circuit. A low resistance reading between a circuit wire and ground indicates a short to ground. This test is performed with the circuit de-energized (battery disconnected). Use a multimeter to measure the resistance between the circuit wire and the vehicle's chassis ground.
Related DTCs B1690: Auto Lamp Sensor Circuit Malfunction. B1691: Auto Lamp Sensor Circuit Range/Performance. * B1693: Auto Lamp Relay Circuit Malfunction. These codes may indicate related issues within the auto lamp system and should be investigated alongside the B1692 code. Diagnose and repair any related DTCs before addressing the B1692 code.
Aftermarket Accessories Aftermarket accessories, such as aftermarket alarm systems, remote starters, or auxiliary lighting, can sometimes interfere with the vehicle's electrical system and cause a short to ground. Improper installation or faulty wiring in these accessories can create a path to ground where one shouldn't exist. Disconnect any aftermarket accessories and retest the circuit to see if the short is resolved. Ensure any aftermarket accessories are properly installed and wired according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Body Control Module (BCM) In some vehicles, the auto lamp delay function is integrated into the Body Control Module (BCM). A faulty BCM can cause a short to ground in the auto lamp delay circuit. Before replacing the BCM, ensure all other possible causes of the short have been ruled out. Consult the vehicle's repair manual for instructions on how to test and diagnose the BCM. Replacement of the BCM may require programming by a qualified technician.

Detailed Explanations:

Definition of B1692: The B1692 code specifically identifies a short to ground within the auto lamp delay circuit. This means a wire or component in the circuit is making unintended contact with the vehicle's metal chassis (ground), allowing current to flow to ground instead of through the intended circuit path.

Auto Lamp Delay Circuit Function: This circuit provides illumination for a short period after the ignition is turned off, allowing occupants to safely exit the vehicle in low-light conditions. The circuit typically involves a timer or relay that keeps the headlights on for a pre-set duration.

Common Causes: The most frequent culprit is damaged wiring, where the insulation has worn away, exposing the wire and allowing it to touch the vehicle's chassis. Other causes include faulty relays or modules, corrosion, improper aftermarket installations, and physical damage.

Symptoms: The most obvious symptom is the headlights remaining on even after the car is turned off. However, other symptoms can include the headlights not turning on at all, rapid battery drain, intermittent headlight operation, a burning smell, and other electrical malfunctions.

Diagnostic Tools: A multimeter is essential for testing voltage, continuity, and resistance. Wiring diagrams are crucial for understanding the circuit layout. A scan tool helps read and clear the B1692 code. Visual inspection tools are needed for thorough examination of wiring and components.

Diagnostic Procedure: The diagnostic process starts with verifying the B1692 code. Then, consult wiring diagrams, visually inspect the wiring, and use a multimeter to test for continuity between the circuit and ground. Isolate the short by disconnecting components one by one and retesting. Finally, repair or replace the faulty wiring or component.

Component Location: The auto lamp delay relay or module's location varies. Check under the dashboard, inside the engine compartment fuse box, behind the glove compartment, or within the Body Control Module (BCM). The vehicle's repair manual is the best resource for specific locations.

Wiring Diagram Interpretation: Wiring diagrams are the roadmap of the electrical system. Understanding them involves identifying power sources, ground points, relays, switches, fuses, and load devices. This knowledge is essential for tracing the circuit and locating the short.

Safety Precautions: Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on the electrical system. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Avoid working in wet conditions. Be cautious around sharp edges and hot components. Double-check all connections before reconnecting the battery.

Voltage Drop Testing: Excessive voltage drop across a section of the circuit indicates resistance, which can be caused by corrosion, loose connections, or damaged wiring. This test helps pinpoint the location of the short to ground by identifying areas of high resistance.

Resistance Testing: Resistance testing measures the opposition to current flow. A low resistance reading between a circuit wire and ground confirms a short to ground. This test must be performed with the circuit de-energized.

Related DTCs: Other codes like B1690, B1691, and B1693 may indicate related issues in the auto lamp system. Addressing these codes first can sometimes resolve the B1692 issue as well.

Aftermarket Accessories: Poorly installed or faulty aftermarket accessories can create shorts. Disconnecting these accessories and retesting can help determine if they are the cause of the B1692 code.

Body Control Module (BCM): If the auto lamp delay function is integrated into the BCM, a faulty BCM could be the cause. However, this is rare, and all other possible causes should be eliminated before considering BCM replacement, which often requires programming.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What does the B1692 code mean? The B1692 code indicates a short to ground in the auto lamp delay circuit, meaning a wire or component is unintentionally connected to the vehicle's chassis ground.

  • Can I drive my car with a B1692 code? While you can drive, it's not recommended. A short to ground can drain your battery or cause other electrical problems, potentially leaving you stranded.

  • How do I fix a B1692 code? Fixing the B1692 code involves diagnosing and repairing the short to ground in the auto lamp delay circuit by inspecting wiring, relays, and modules.

  • Is the B1692 code a serious problem? Yes, it is a serious problem because it can lead to battery drain, electrical malfunctions, and potentially damage to the vehicle's electrical system.

  • Can a bad relay cause a B1692 code? Yes, a faulty auto lamp delay relay can indeed cause a short to ground, leading to the B1692 code.

  • How much does it cost to fix a B1692 code? The cost varies depending on the cause of the short and labor rates, but expect to pay between $100 and $500 for diagnosis and repair.

Conclusion:

The B1692 code signifies a short to ground in the auto lamp delay circuit, which can cause various electrical problems. A systematic diagnostic approach, including visual inspection, voltage drop testing, and resistance testing, is crucial for identifying and resolving the issue. Repairing the short promptly will prevent further damage and ensure the proper functioning of the auto lamp system.