Engine-CodesChrysler – B1812 Chrysler

B1812 Chrysler Code - Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short

Quick Answer

The B1812 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) specifically pertains to a malfunction in the passenger door ajar circuit within Chrysler vehicles. Common causes include Faulty Door Ajar Switch: The switch itself may be malfunctioning or stuck, causing it to send incorrect signals to the BCM, Wiring Issues: Damaged, frayed, or corroded wiring in the door harness can create a short circuit, leading to the B1812 code, Connector Corrosion: Corrosion at the connectors can disrupt the electrical signal, causing the BCM to misinterpret the door's status. 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
B1812 Chrysler indicates Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short .
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Door Ajar Switch: The switch itself may be malfunctioning or stuck, causing it to send incorrect signals to the BCM, Wiring Issues: Damaged, frayed, or corroded wiring in the door harness can create a short circuit, leading to the B1812 code, Connector Corrosion: Corrosion at the connectors can disrupt the electrical signal, causing the BCM to misinterpret the door's status.
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 Oct 01, 2024
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Code B1812 Chrysler Description

The B1812 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) specifically pertains to a malfunction in the passenger door ajar circuit within Chrysler vehicles. This code indicates that there is a short circuit in the wiring or components that monitor the status of the passenger door, which is designed to detect whether the door is open or closed. The door ajar switch is typically located in the door latch mechanism and is responsible for sending a signal to the vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM) regarding the door's status.

OBDII Code B1812 Chrysler - Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short
B1812 Chrysler Code - Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short

Common Causes of B1812 Chrysler

  1. Faulty Door Ajar Switch: The switch itself may be malfunctioning or stuck, causing it to send incorrect signals to the BCM.
  2. Wiring Issues: Damaged, frayed, or corroded wiring in the door harness can create a short circuit, leading to the B1812 code.
  3. Connector Corrosion: Corrosion at the connectors can disrupt the electrical signal, causing the BCM to misinterpret the door's status.
  4. Body Control Module (BCM) Malfunction: A software glitch or hardware failure within the BCM can lead to erroneous readings from the door ajar circuit.
  5. Physical Obstructions: Objects lodged in the door latch mechanism may prevent the switch from operating correctly.

Symptoms of B1812 Chrysler

  1. Interior Lights Remain On: The interior lights may stay illuminated even when the vehicle is turned off, indicating a false signal from the door ajar switch.
  2. Alarm System Malfunction: The vehicle's alarm may trigger unexpectedly or fail to activate when the doors are locked.
  3. Door Locking Issues: The vehicle may not lock properly, or the central locking system may behave erratically.
  4. Warning Light on Dashboard: The dashboard may display a warning light indicating a door is ajar, even when all doors are securely closed.
  5. Increased Battery Drain: Over time, the constant illumination of interior lights can lead to battery depletion, especially if the vehicle is not used frequently.

How to Fix B1812 Chrysler

  1. Visual Inspection: Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the passenger door wiring and connectors for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
  2. Test the Door Ajar Switch: Use a multimeter to test the functionality of the door ajar switch. If it is faulty, replace it with a new component.
  3. Repair or Replace Wiring: If damaged wiring is found, repair the frayed sections or replace the entire harness if necessary to ensure proper electrical connectivity.
  4. Check the BCM: If the switch and wiring are intact, perform a diagnostic check on the BCM to determine if it is functioning correctly and update or reprogram it if needed.
  5. Clear Codes and Test Drive: After repairs, clear the DTCs using a scan tool and take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved and that the code does not reappear.

Cost to Fix B1812 Chrysler

The cost to repair the B1812 code can vary widely based on the specific issue identified during diagnosis. On average, the total repair costs can range from $100 to $500. This estimate includes parts such as a new door ajar switch (typically $20 to $100) and labor costs, which may range from $80 to $150 per hour. Factors such as location, the make and model of the vehicle, and the complexity of the repair will influence the final cost. In metropolitan areas or at dealerships, labor rates may be higher, while independent shops often offer more competitive pricing. It's advisable to consult local repair shops for precise estimates tailored to your specific situation.

Tech Notes for B1812 Chrysler

B1812-11 PASSENGER DOOR AJAR CIRCUIT SHORT TO GROUND

B1812-15 PASSENGER DOOR AJAR CIRCUIT SHORT TO BATTERY OR OPEN

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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 B1812 Chrysler Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1812 mean on a Chrysler?

B1812 indicates a "Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short," meaning there's an electrical issue in the circuit that detects whether the passenger door is open or closed.

2. What are the symptoms of the B1812 code?

Common symptoms include the "door ajar" warning light staying on, interior dome lights remaining on, or the vehicle failing to lock properly.

3. What causes the B1812 code to appear?

The most common causes are damaged wiring, a faulty door ajar switch, corroded connectors, or a short circuit in the passenger door ajar circuit.

4. Can I drive with the B1812 code active?

Yes, but it may cause inconvenience, such as constant warning lights or battery drain due to interior lights staying on. It's best to address it promptly.

5. How do I diagnose the B1812 code?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors in the passenger door for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check for shorts or continuity in the circuit.

6. How do I fix the B1812 code?

Repairs may involve replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or replacing a faulty door ajar switch in the passenger door.

7. How much does it cost to fix the B1812 code?

The cost depends on the issue, ranging from $50-$150 for a switch replacement to $200 or more if extensive wiring repairs are needed.

8. Can a faulty door latch cause the B1812 code?

Yes, if the door latch assembly contains the door ajar switch, damage or malfunction in the latch can trigger the code.

9. Will clearing the B1812 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code may remove the warning temporarily, but if the underlying issue isn’t addressed, the code will return.

10. Can the B1812 code drain my battery?

Yes, if the "door ajar" circuit causes interior lights to stay on, it can lead to battery drain if left unresolved.

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