The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1982, "Device Power Circuit High," indicates that the vehicle's control module has detected a voltage reading in a specific device's power circuit that is higher than expected. This doesn't necessarily pinpoint a specific component failure, but rather highlights an issue within the power supply to a particular device or module, potentially affecting its operation and overall vehicle functionality. Identifying and resolving this issue is crucial to prevent further damage or malfunctions.
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Indicates a higher-than-expected voltage in the power supply circuit of a specific device or module. |
| Affected Systems/Devices | Varies depending on the vehicle and the specific device indicated in the full code description (e.g., B1982-01 indicates a specific device). Examples include: Airbag Control Module (ACM), Body Control Module (BCM), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Climate Control Module, and various sensors. |
| Possible Causes | * **Faulty Voltage Regulator:** Malfunctioning voltage regulator supplying excessive voltage. * **Short to Voltage:** A short circuit to a higher voltage source within the wiring harness. * **Wiring Issues:** Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors. * **Grounding Problems:** Poor or missing ground connection for the device. * **Faulty Control Module:** (Less likely) Internal failure within the control module itself. * **External Power Source Issues:** Problems with the vehicle's alternator or battery. * **Software Glitches:** (Rare) Software issues within the module causing misinterpretation of voltage readings. * **Aftermarket Accessories:** Improperly installed aftermarket accessories interfering with the power supply. |
| Symptoms | * **Warning Lights:** Illumination of warning lights on the dashboard related to the affected system (e.g., ABS light, airbag light, ESC light). * **Malfunctioning Device:** The device controlled by the affected power circuit may not function correctly or at all. * **Intermittent Issues:** The problem may appear and disappear sporadically. * **Reduced Performance:** Potentially reduced performance of the affected system. * **Battery Drain:** In some cases, excessive voltage can contribute to battery drain. * **System Shutdown:** The affected system may shut down completely. * **Unexpected Behavior:** Unpredictable or erratic behavior of the affected system. |
| Diagnostic Steps | * **Retrieve and Document Codes:** Use a scan tool to retrieve all DTCs present in the vehicle's computer system and document them. * **Research Specific Code:** Determine the exact meaning of the B1982 code for your specific vehicle make, model, and year. * **Inspect Wiring and Connectors:** Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the affected device for damage, corrosion, and loose connections. * **Check Ground Connections:** Verify that the ground connections for the device are clean, tight, and properly grounded. * **Test Voltage at Device:** Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the device's power supply circuit and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications. * **Check Voltage Regulator:** Test the voltage regulator to ensure it is functioning correctly and providing the correct voltage. * **Perform Load Test:** Conduct a load test on the affected circuit to check for excessive voltage drop. * **Isolate the Circuit:** If possible, isolate the affected circuit to determine if the problem is within the device itself or in the wiring harness. * **Consult Wiring Diagrams:** Refer to the vehicle's wiring diagrams to trace the circuit and identify potential problem areas. * **Module Testing:** (Advanced) Perform module-specific testing procedures as outlined in the manufacturer's service manual. |
| Possible Solutions | * **Repair or Replace Wiring:** Repair any damaged or corroded wiring and connectors. * **Clean and Tighten Connections:** Clean and tighten any loose or corroded connections. * **Repair Ground Connections:** Repair or replace any faulty ground connections. * **Replace Voltage Regulator:** Replace a faulty voltage regulator. * **Replace Faulty Device/Module:** Replace the device or module if it is determined to be the source of the problem. * **Reprogram/Update Module:** In some cases, reprogramming or updating the module's software may resolve the issue. * **Remove Aftermarket Accessories:** If an improperly installed aftermarket accessory is causing the problem, remove it. |
| Tools Required | * **Scan Tool:** To retrieve and clear DTCs. * **Multimeter:** To measure voltage, resistance, and current. * **Wiring Diagrams:** To trace the circuit and identify potential problem areas. * **Test Light:** To check for power and ground. * **Wire Strippers/Crimpers:** To repair wiring. * **Socket Set/Wrenches:** To remove and install components. * **Terminal Tools:** For connector repair and testing. * **Voltmeter:** to measure voltage. |
| Severity | Moderate to High. A "Device Power Circuit High" condition can lead to component damage, system malfunction, and even safety concerns, depending on the affected system. For example, a high voltage to the airbag control module could lead to unintended airbag deployment, or failure during an accident. |
| Related Codes | B1981 (Device Power Circuit Low), other B-codes specific to individual systems or devices. |
Detailed Explanations
Definition: The B1982 code signifies that the vehicle's computer system has detected a voltage level in the power circuit of a specific device that is abnormally high. This is a deviation from the expected voltage range, indicating a potential problem within the power supply system for that component. The full code description, including any subcodes (e.g., B1982-01), is crucial for pinpointing the exact affected device.
Affected Systems/Devices: The "device" mentioned in the B1982 code can vary widely depending on the vehicle's make, model, and year. Common examples include the Airbag Control Module (ACM), Body Control Module (BCM), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Climate Control Module, and various sensors throughout the vehicle. The specific system affected will dictate the symptoms and potential safety concerns. The subcode following B1982 (e.g., B1982-01, B1982-02) will provide more detailed information about the exact component or circuit experiencing the high voltage.
Possible Causes: Several factors can contribute to a B1982 code. A faulty voltage regulator is a primary suspect, as it is responsible for maintaining a stable voltage supply. A short to voltage in the wiring harness can also cause excessive voltage in the circuit. Wiring issues, such as damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors, can disrupt the circuit's integrity. Grounding problems, including poor or missing ground connections, can also lead to voltage fluctuations. In rare cases, a faulty control module itself may be the culprit. External factors, such as problems with the vehicle's alternator or battery, can also contribute. Software glitches within the module are less common but possible. Finally, aftermarket accessories that are improperly installed can interfere with the power supply.
Symptoms: The symptoms associated with a B1982 code will vary depending on the affected system. Warning lights on the dashboard, such as the ABS light, airbag light, or ESC light, are common indicators. The malfunctioning device may not function correctly or at all. The problem may also be intermittent, appearing and disappearing sporadically. Reduced performance of the affected system is another possibility. In some cases, excessive voltage can contribute to battery drain. The affected system may even shut down completely. In extreme cases, the system may exhibit unexpected behavior such as unintended activation.
Diagnostic Steps: Diagnosing a B1982 code requires a systematic approach. First, retrieve and document all DTCs present in the vehicle's computer system using a scan tool. Next, research the specific code for your vehicle to understand the affected system. Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the device for any signs of damage or corrosion. Check the ground connections to ensure they are clean and tight. Test the voltage at the device using a multimeter and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications. Check the voltage regulator to ensure it is functioning correctly. A load test on the affected circuit can help identify excessive voltage drop. If possible, isolate the circuit to determine if the problem is within the device itself or the wiring harness. Consult wiring diagrams to trace the circuit and identify potential problem areas. Advanced diagnostics may involve module-specific testing procedures outlined in the manufacturer's service manual.
Possible Solutions: The solution to a B1982 code will depend on the underlying cause. Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors is a common fix. Cleaning and tightening loose connections can also resolve the issue. Repairing or replacing faulty ground connections is crucial for proper circuit function. Replacing a faulty voltage regulator will ensure a stable voltage supply. If the device or module itself is faulty, it may need to be replaced. In some cases, reprogramming or updating the module's software may resolve the issue. If an improperly installed aftermarket accessory is causing the problem, it should be removed.
Tools Required: Diagnosing and repairing a B1982 code requires a variety of tools. A scan tool is essential for retrieving and clearing DTCs. A multimeter is needed to measure voltage, resistance, and current. Wiring diagrams are crucial for tracing the circuit and identifying potential problem areas. A test light can be used to check for power and ground. Wire strippers/crimpers are necessary for repairing wiring. A socket set/wrenches are needed to remove and install components. Terminal tools are helpful for connector repair and testing.
Severity: The severity of a B1982 code is moderate to high. The potential consequences depend on the affected system. A high voltage condition can lead to component damage, system malfunction, and even safety concerns. For example, if the airbag control module is affected, it could lead to unintended airbag deployment or failure during an accident. Therefore, it is important to address this code promptly.
Related Codes: B1982 is often accompanied by other codes. B1981 (Device Power Circuit Low) indicates the opposite problem. Other B-codes specific to individual systems or devices may also be present, providing further clues about the underlying issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the B1982 code mean? It means the vehicle's computer detected a higher-than-expected voltage in a specific device's power circuit. This indicates a potential problem with the power supply to that component.
What are the common causes of the B1982 code? Common causes include a faulty voltage regulator, a short to voltage, damaged wiring, and grounding problems. Less common causes include a faulty control module or software issues.
How do I diagnose the B1982 code? Start by retrieving and documenting all DTCs, then research the specific code for your vehicle. Inspect wiring, connectors, and ground connections, and test the voltage at the device.
Can I fix the B1982 code myself? Depending on your mechanical skills and the cause of the problem, you may be able to fix it yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working with electrical systems, it is best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
Is it safe to drive with the B1982 code? It depends on the affected system. If the code affects a critical safety system like airbags or ABS, it is best to avoid driving the vehicle until the problem is resolved.
Conclusion
The B1982 "Device Power Circuit High" code indicates a potentially serious issue with the power supply to a specific device in your vehicle. Thorough diagnosis and repair are crucial to prevent component damage, system malfunction, and potential safety hazards. If you are not comfortable performing the necessary diagnostic and repair procedures, consult a qualified automotive technician.