OBD-II Code B1395
System: Body Control Module (BCM)
Severity: Low (Convenience feature only; safe to drive)
What Does This Code Mean?
This code is a B-Series (Body) trouble code, which means it deals with the interior electronics rather than the engine.
Specifically, “Power Door Memory Lock Circuit Short To Ground” indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a problem in the control circuit for the door locks. The BCM sends a voltage signal to a relay to activate the locks based on “memory” conditions (e.g., locking the doors automatically when the vehicle shifts into Drive).
The code is set when that voltage signal takes an unintended shortcut directly to the vehicle’s metal frame (Ground) before it reaches the relay or actuator.
Symptoms
Since this code affects a specific control circuit, you may notice that some lock functions work while others do not:
- Memory Features Fail: The doors fail to lock or unlock automatically when shifting gears or removing the key.
- Key Fob Failure: The “Memory” button on your key fob may not recall lock settings.
- Manual Switches Work: Often, the manual lock/unlock button on the door panel will still function correctly because it uses a different signal wire.
- Blown Fuses: In some cases, the short can cause the door lock fuse to blow repeatedly.
Common Causes
- Broken Wires in Door Jamb (Most Common): The wiring harness that runs from the car body into the door passes through a rubber accordion boot. Years of opening and closing the door fatigue these wires, causing the insulation to crack and the copper wire to touch the metal body.
- Internal Relay Short: The relay responsible for the memory lock function may have an internal mechanical failure.
- Water Intrusion: Moisture entering the door panel or the kick panel can corrode connectors, creating a bridge between the power wire and the ground.
- Faulty BCM: In rare cases, the Body Control Module driver itself has failed (usually a result of a prolonged short circuit).
Troubleshooting Guide: How to Fix It
Step 1: The “Wiggle Test” (Visual Inspection)
Before breaking out the multimeter, check the most likely culprit: the door hinge wiring.
- Open the driver’s door.
- Locate the black rubber boot (conduit) connecting the door to the car frame.
- While a helper presses the lock button (or attempts to trigger the memory lock), wiggle and squeeze the rubber boot.
- Result: If the locks suddenly work or you hear a crackling sound, you have found the break. You will need to peel back the boot and repair the broken wire.
Step 2: Check the Relay
Many vehicles use separate relays for memory functions versus manual locking.
- Locate your interior fuse box (usually in the kick panel or under the dash).
- Consult the fuse diagram to find the “Memory Lock” or “Door Lock” relay.
- The Swap: Pull the relay out and swap it with an identical relay from a non-critical system (like the horn or a fog light).
- Result: If the code clears and the locks work, the relay was the issue.
Step 3: Multimeter Testing (Pinpoint Test)
If the visual check and relay swap fail, you must test the circuit for a short.
Tools Needed: Multimeter, Wiring Diagram.
- Isolate the Circuit: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Remove the connector from the BCM and the connector at the Door Lock Relay/Actuator.
- Set to Ohms: Set your multimeter to the Ohms ($\Omega$) setting.
- Test for Ground:
- Place one probe on the signal wire (refer to your specific wiring diagram for the wire color/pin number).
- Place the other probe on a clean metal ground point on the chassis.
- Reading:
- OL (Open Loop/Infinite): This is good. It means the wire is not touching the ground.
- 0.0 – 100 $\Omega$: This indicates a Short to Ground. The wire is touching metal somewhere along its path. You must trace the wire physically to find the pinch point.
Estimated Repair Costs
- DIY Repair: $5 – $20 (Electrical tape, butt connectors, or a new relay).
- Professional Diagnosis: $100 – $150 (1 hour of labor).
- Wiring Repair (Shop): $150 – $300 (Depending on accessibility).
- BCM Replacement: $400 – $1,000+ (Includes programming).
Final Note
Do not ignore this code if you notice your battery draining overnight. While a control circuit short is usually low amperage, it can keep modules “awake,” slowly killing your battery.
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