B1037 - Understanding DTC B1037: Common in 2016-2020 Ford Explorer and Other Models

Quick Answer

B1037 means: B1037 indicates a fault in the body control module related to interior lighting.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $100 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B1037? While not immediately critical, addressing B1037 soon is advisable to prevent further issues.

Common Questions

What does B1037 mean and how does it affect my car?

B1037 indicates a fault in the body control module related to your vehicle's interior lighting. It can affect how your lights operate, leading to safety issues and potential battery drain if the lights stay on when they shouldn't.

What are the most common causes of B1037 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include short circuits in the wiring (50% likelihood), faulty BCM (30%), and poor connections (10%). Repair costs can range from $100 to $800 depending on whether it's a wiring issue or a BCM replacement.

Can I drive my car with B1037 or should I stop immediately?

While B1037 is not an immediate danger, it is advisable to address it soon to prevent potential battery drainage and ensure proper lighting functionality, especially for nighttime driving.

How can I diagnose B1037 myself using GeekOBD APP?

You can use the GeekOBD APP to scan for codes and retrieve freeze frame data, which helps you understand the context of the fault. Check the BCM and related wiring for any visible issues based on the results.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B1037?

B1037 is commonly seen in models like the 2016-2020 Ford Explorer and other vehicles equipped with similar body control modules and interior lighting systems.

How can I prevent B1037 from happening again?

Regularly inspect wiring for wear and tear, ensure connections are secure, and avoid modifications to the electrical system without proper knowledge to prevent future occurrences.

What is B1037?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1037 is a manufacturer-specific code primarily associated with issues in the vehicle's body control module (BCM) related to the interior lighting system. This code indicates that the BCM has detected a fault in the wiring or components that control the vehicle's interior lights, which may include door lights, dome lights, and ambient lighting. When this code is triggered, you may notice that your interior lights either do not work at all or behave erratically, such as flickering or remaining on when the vehicle is off. In everyday driving, this can lead to inconvenience and even battery drain if the lights remain active. It's essential to address this issue promptly to ensure that your vehicle's electrical system functions properly and to avoid any potential safety hazards, such as impaired visibility inside the vehicle at night. Additionally, ignoring B1037 could lead to further electrical issues or even more costly repairs down the road. Understanding this code is crucial for any Ford Explorer owner, as it can help in diagnosing the problem effectively and restoring the vehicle's lighting functionality.

System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B1037 is present:

The interior lights do not illuminate when the doors are opened, leading to difficulty seeing inside the vehicle, especially at night.
Dome lights flicker or unexpectedly turn on and off while driving, causing distractions and potential safety concerns.
If the lights remain on after the vehicle is turned off, it can lead to battery drain, resulting in the car failing to start.
The check engine light may also be illuminated on the dashboard, indicating that there are additional diagnostic codes present.
You may notice other electrical issues, such as malfunctioning power windows or locks, which can be related to the same body control module.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B1037 (ordered by frequency):

The most common cause of code B1037 is a short circuit in the wiring harness, accounting for about 50% of cases. This can happen due to wear, abrasion, or exposure to moisture.
Another frequent cause is a faulty body control module itself, which may malfunction due to internal component failure or software issues, occurring in approximately 30% of cases.
Poor connections at the BCM or related connectors can also trigger this code, making up about 10% of occurrences. Regular inspections can help prevent such issues.
Less commonly, a blown fuse associated with the interior lighting circuit could be the culprit, possibly affecting other electrical systems as well.
In rare instances, vehicle modifications, such as aftermarket lighting installations, can interfere with the BCM's operation and lead to this error code.

B1037 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Repair

Repair or replace damaged wiring in the interior lighting circuit.

Total: $100 - $300
Success rate: 85%

BCM Replacement

Replace the body control module if found to be faulty.

Total: $300 - $800
Success rate: 90%

Money-Saving Tips for B1037

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 B1037 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B1037. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the body control module and interior light circuits (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the body control module and interior light circuits (5-10 minutes).