Quick Answer
B0168 means: B0168 indicates a communication error with the Body Control Module.
Can I drive with B0168? Recommended to address promptly to avoid further electrical issues.
Common Questions
What does B0168 mean and how does it affect my car?
B0168 indicates a communication failure with the Body Control Module, which is vital for the operation of numerous electrical features in your car. This can lead to intermittent or complete failure of systems such as power windows, door locks, and dashboard lights, affecting your driving experience and potentially compromising safety.
What are the most common causes of B0168 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty BCM, damaged wiring, or blown fuses. Repair costs can range from $50 for a simple fuse replacement to $600 for a BCM replacement, depending on the complexity of the repair and the specific vehicle model.
Can I drive my car with B0168 or should I stop immediately?
While it may be possible to drive with a B0168 code, it is not advisable. Communication issues can lead to failures in critical systems, which may pose a safety risk. It is best to address the problem as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose B0168 myself using GeekOBD APP?
With the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for trouble codes, retrieve freeze frame data, and monitor live data from the BCM and other modules. This will help you identify whether the issue is with the BCM itself or related wiring.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0168?
B0168 is frequently seen in 2015-2020 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Chevy Equinox models, where BCM issues have been reported. Check for any recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to your vehicle's electrical system.
How can I prevent B0168 from happening again?
Regularly inspect your vehicle's electrical connections, keep the BCM area dry, and ensure that the battery and alternator are functioning correctly to prevent electrical surges that can damage the BCM.
What is B0168?
The DTC code B0168 indicates a communication error between the Body Control Module (BCM) and other modules, such as the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) or other electronic control units (ECUs) in your vehicle. This issue can lead to various electrical problems, affecting features like power windows, door locks, and interior lighting. In simple terms, the BCM acts as the central hub for many electrical systems in your car. When it cannot communicate properly with other modules, it can cause malfunctioning of various systems, which might manifest as intermittent failures or complete inoperability of certain features. For instance, you may notice that your headlights flicker, your power door locks don’t respond, or your dashboard lights are behaving erratically. The B0168 code is not just a minor annoyance; if left unresolved, it can lead to more significant electrical issues and could impact the overall reliability and safety of your vehicle. Ensuring that the BCM and its connections are in good condition is crucial for the proper functioning of your vehicle's electrical system.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B0168 is present:
- The check engine light stays illuminated, indicating a problem that needs attention.
- Power windows or door locks may fail to operate intermittently, affecting convenience and security.
- Dashboard warning lights may flicker or fail to function, leading to confusion regarding the vehicle's status.
- Interior lights may not turn on or off when expected, impacting usability at night.
- The vehicle's remote keyless entry system may stop working, making it difficult to gain access.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B0168 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of B0168 is a faulty Body Control Module, occurring in about 40% of cases. This can happen due to age, exposure to moisture, or an electrical surge.
- Another potential cause is damaged wiring or poor connections, which can account for around 30% of the issues. Corroded connectors can prevent proper communication between modules.
- A blown fuse related to the BCM circuit can also trigger this code, and it is often overlooked. Check fuses as a first step in your diagnostics.
- Less common but serious causes include software issues within the BCM, requiring a software update or reprogramming to resolve.
- Rarely, issues with other modules that communicate with the BCM can also be the root cause, though this is an uncommon scenario.
B0168 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
BCM Replacement
Replacing the faulty Body Control Module can resolve communication issues.
- Total: $300 - $600
- Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for B0168
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional B0168 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0168. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Look for damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the BCM and related modules (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Look for damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the BCM and related modules (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data, helping to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data, helping to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the BCM and associated circuits for proper voltage and continuity (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the BCM and associated circuits for proper voltage and continuity (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After making any repairs, verify that all systems function correctly and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - After making any repairs, verify that all systems function correctly and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure the problem has been resolved and no codes reappear (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure the problem has been resolved and no codes reappear (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: BCM Replacement on 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Vehicle: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported that the power windows and door locks were intermittently failing.
Diagnosis: After scanning for codes, B0168 was identified, leading to a thorough inspection of the BCM and wiring.
Solution: Replaced the BCM and repaired corroded connectors.
Cost: $450 (parts: $300 for BCM, $150 for labor)
Result: All electrical features restored to full functionality; no further issues reported.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2019 GMC Sierra 1500
Vehicle: 2019 GMC Sierra 1500, 30,000 miles
Problem: Dashboard lights were flickering, and the remote entry system was malfunctioning.
Diagnosis: B0168 was retrieved during the diagnostic process, prompting a closer look at the wiring harness.
Solution: Repaired damaged wiring leading to the BCM, no BCM replacement was necessary.
Cost: $150 (labor only, no parts needed)
Result: All systems returned to normal operation; customer satisfied with the low-cost fix.