Quick Answer
B1660 means: B1660 refers to a fault in the Body Control Module (BCM) of your vehicle.
Can I drive with B1660? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent further electrical issues.
Common Questions
What does B1660 mean and how does it affect my car?
The B1660 code indicates an issue with your vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM). This module manages various electrical components, such as lights and locks. If it's malfunctioning, you may face issues like flickering lights, unresponsive power windows, or even starting problems. It's crucial to address this code as it can lead to further electrical problems and affect your vehicle's safety.
What are the most common causes of B1660 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of B1660 include a faulty BCM, which can cost between $400 and $800 to replace, including labor. Damaged wiring or connectors are also frequent culprits, and repairs can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage. Regular inspections and maintenance can help you catch these issues early.
Can I drive my car with B1660 or should I stop immediately?
While it may be possible to drive your vehicle with the B1660 code, it's not advisable. Continued operation can exacerbate electrical issues, leading to safety risks. It's best to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose B1660 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose B1660 using the GeekOBD APP, first connect the app to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Perform a scan to check for the B1660 code, and review any additional codes that may provide insight into the issue. Utilize freeze frame data to understand the conditions under which the code was triggered.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B1660?
B1660 is most commonly found in vehicles like the 2005-2010 Chevrolet Impala and the 2006-2011 Buick LaCrosse. Additionally, various GM trucks from 2007 to 2014 may also exhibit this code, often linked to BCM-related issues.
How can I prevent B1660 from happening again?
To prevent B1660, ensure regular inspections of electrical systems and maintain clean connections. Address any electrical issues promptly, and keep the BCM area free from moisture. Consider using protective covers if your vehicle is frequently exposed to harsh weather conditions.
What is B1660?
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1660 indicates a problem with the Body Control Module (BCM) in vehicles such as the 2005-2010 Chevrolet Impala, 2006-2011 Buick LaCrosse, and 2007-2014 GM trucks. The BCM is responsible for controlling various electrical systems in your vehicle, including lights, locks, and other body functions. When this code appears, it typically signifies that the BCM has detected an anomaly in its internal circuitry or communication with other modules. Commonly, this may stem from issues such as a faulty BCM, damaged wiring, or poor connections. In real-world terms, you might notice that your interior lights flicker or that your power windows malfunction intermittently. Ignoring this code can lead to more extensive electrical issues, potentially compromising vehicle safety and functionality. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to electrical faults can prevent the escalation of these problems, ensuring your vehicle remains reliable and safe to drive.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B1660 is present:
- The check engine light illuminates and remains on, indicating a persistent issue with the BCM.
- Power accessories, such as windows and locks, may work intermittently or fail entirely, leading to frustration for the driver.
- Interior lights may flicker or fail to turn on or off as expected, creating an inconvenience during night-time driving.
- The vehicle may experience random electrical glitches, such as dashboard warning lights flashing unexpectedly.
- In some cases, the vehicle may fail to start due to BCM communication errors, leaving the driver stranded.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B1660 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of DTC B1660 is a faulty Body Control Module, occurring in approximately 60% of cases. This can be due to age, environmental factors, or manufacturing defects.
- Another potential cause is damaged wiring or connectors related to the BCM, which can account for about 25% of issues. Corrosion or wear can disrupt the electrical signals.
- Short circuits or open circuits in the BCM circuit can also trigger this code; preventive maintenance, such as checking for frayed wires, can help avoid these problems.
- Less common causes include software issues within the BCM, which may require a software update or reprogramming to resolve.
- A rare but possible cause is water intrusion into the BCM housing, which can occur in vehicles exposed to heavy rain or flooding, leading to internal damage.
B1660 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
BCM Replacement
Replacing the Body Control Module is often necessary if the unit is found to be defective.
- Total: $400 - $800
- Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for B1660
- 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 B1660 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B1660. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Conduct a visual inspection of the BCM and its wiring harness for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan and retrieve all diagnostic trouble codes along with freeze frame data to provide context for the B1660 code
Step 3: Test the suspected components using a multimeter or specialized diagnostic tools to confirm whether the BCM is functioning correctly
Step 4: After making repairs, conduct a system function test to ensure all components operate as expected and clear the B1660 code from the system
Step 5: Finally, perform a road test to verify that the repairs have resolved the issue and that the vehicle operates normally under various conditions
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 2008 Chevrolet Impala
Vehicle: 2008 Chevrolet Impala with 120,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported intermittent power issues affecting windows and lights.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed B1660 code. Visual inspection showed signs of corrosion in BCM wiring.
Solution: Replaced the Body Control Module and repaired damaged wiring.
Cost: $650 (parts: $400 for BCM, $250 for labor)
Result: Post-repair, all electrical components functioned correctly, and the B1660 code did not return.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2009 Buick LaCrosse
Vehicle: 2009 Buick LaCrosse with 85,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced flickering interior lights and non-responsive door locks.
Diagnosis: B1660 was triggered due to damaged wiring connected to the BCM.
Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and secured connections.
Cost: $300 (parts: $50 for wiring, $250 for labor)
Result: After repairs, the vehicle showed no further symptoms, and the BCM functioned properly.