Engine-CodesMercury – B1170 Mercury

B1170 Mercury Code - Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery

Quick Answer

The B1170 diagnostic trouble code for Mercury vehicles indicates a problem with the right power running board deploy and/or stow circuit short to the battery. Common causes include Damaged wiring harness leading to a short circuit, Corrosion or loose connections in the wiring, Faulty control module for the power running board. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
B1170 Mercury indicates Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery.
Common causes
Common causes include Damaged wiring harness leading to a short circuit, Corrosion or loose connections in the wiring, Faulty control module for the power running board.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 16, 2024
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Code B1170 Mercury Description

The B1170 diagnostic trouble code for Mercury vehicles indicates a problem with the right power running board deploy and/or stow circuit short to the battery. The power running board is a convenient feature that automatically deploys when the vehicle door is opened and retracts when the door is closed. This code suggests that there is a short circuit in the wiring that controls the deployment and stowing of the right power running board, causing it to malfunction.

OBDII Code B1170 Mercury - Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery
B1170 Mercury Code - Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery

Common Causes of B1170 Mercury

  1. Damaged wiring harness leading to a short circuit.
  2. Corrosion or loose connections in the wiring.
  3. Faulty control module for the power running board.
  4. Physical damage to the power running board mechanism.
  5. Water intrusion causing electrical issues in the system.

Symptoms of B1170 Mercury

  1. Right power running board fails to deploy or retract.
  2. Power running board may deploy or retract intermittently.
  3. Battery drain issues due to continuous power draw from the short circuit.
  4. Warning light on the dashboard indicating a malfunction in the power running board system.

How to Fix B1170 Mercury

  1. Begin by inspecting the wiring harness for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace any damaged wiring as needed.
  2. Check the control module for the power running board for any signs of malfunction. Replace the control module if necessary.
  3. Test the power running board system to ensure proper deployment and retraction after the wiring and control module repairs.
  4. Clear the diagnostic trouble code from the vehicle's computer system using a scan tool to reset the system and verify that the issue has been resolved.
  5. Conduct a final test drive to confirm that the right power running board operates correctly without any further issues.

Cost to Fix B1170 Mercury

The typical repair costs for addressing a B1170 code related to the right power running board deploy and/or stow circuit short to the battery can range from $200 to $500, including parts and labor. However, it's important to note that the specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary based on factors such as location, vehicle make and model, and engine type. Rates in metropolitan areas or at dealerships may be higher, while independent shops often charge less. It's advisable to obtain quotes from local auto repair shops for a more accurate estimate of the repair costs.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B1170 Mercury Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1170 on a Mercury related to the Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery?

The common symptoms include the running board failing to deploy or stow properly, intermittent operation of the running board, or a complete failure of the running board system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1170 Mercury indicating a Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery?

Possible causes include a short circuit in the wiring harness, a faulty running board motor, a malfunctioning control module, or a damaged sensor related to the running board operation.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code B1170 Mercury for the Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery?

You can start by visually inspecting the wiring harness for any visible damage, testing the running board motor for proper functionality, checking the control module for error codes, and testing the sensors associated with the running board.

4. What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code B1170 Mercury for the Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery?

Repair tips include repairing or replacing any damaged wiring harness, replacing a faulty running board motor, resetting or reprogramming the control module, and calibrating the sensors for correct operation.

5. Can I reset the OBDII code B1170 on my Mercury related to the Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery myself?

Yes, you can reset the code by using an OBDII scanner or disconnecting the car battery for a few minutes. However, it is recommended to diagnose and repair the underlying issue causing the code before resetting it.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my Mercury with OBDII code B1170 indicating a Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery?

It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code, as it may result in the running board malfunctioning while driving, posing a safety risk. It is best to address the issue promptly.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1170 Mercury for the Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. It may range from a simple wiring repair cost to a higher cost if components like the motor or control module need replacement.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect the occurrence of OBDII code B1170 on a Mercury related to the Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery?

Yes, extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or extreme temperatures can potentially cause electrical components to malfunction, leading to issues like short circuits that trigger this OBDII code.

9. Are there any preventive measures I can take to avoid encountering OBDII code B1170 Mercury for the Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery in the future?

Regularly inspecting the running board system for any signs of wear or damage, keeping the components clean, and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent the occurrence of this code.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive knowledge repair OBDII code B1170 on a Mercury for the Right Power Running Board Deploy and/or Stow Circuit Short To Battery?

Depending on the specific cause of the issue, a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive knowledge may be able to perform some repairs like checking and replacing a damaged wiring harness. However, for complex issues involving control modules or sensors, professional assistance may be needed.

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