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Engine-Codes – RAM – B1812 RAM

B1812 RAM Code - Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short

Quick Answer

The B1812 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a malfunction in the passenger door ajar circuit, specifically a short circuit condition. Common causes include A faulty door ajar switch that fails to close properly when the door is shut, Damaged or frayed wiring in the door harness that leads to a short circuit, Corrosion or poor connections at the door switch or BCM terminals. 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 RAM indicates Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short .
Common causes
Common causes include A faulty door ajar switch that fails to close properly when the door is shut, Damaged or frayed wiring in the door harness that leads to a short circuit, Corrosion or poor connections at the door switch or BCM terminals.
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.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 23, 2024
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Code B1812 RAM Description

The B1812 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a malfunction in the passenger door ajar circuit, specifically a short circuit condition. This code is prevalent in vehicles equipped with advanced body control modules that monitor the status of the doors. When the vehicle's onboard computer detects that the passenger door is signaling an "ajar" condition despite being closed, it triggers this code. This can lead to various performance issues, including the failure of the interior lights to turn off, which could drain the battery over time.

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

Common Causes of B1812 RAM

  1. A faulty door ajar switch that fails to close properly when the door is shut.
  2. Damaged or frayed wiring in the door harness that leads to a short circuit.
  3. Corrosion or poor connections at the door switch or BCM terminals.
  4. A malfunctioning body control module that misinterprets the signals from the door switch.
  5. Physical obstructions or misalignment of the door that prevents the switch from functioning correctly.

Symptoms of B1812 RAM

  1. Interior lights remain on when the vehicle is in motion or after the door is closed.
  2. The vehicle alarm may trigger unexpectedly or fail to activate.
  3. Warning lights on the dashboard related to door status may illuminate.
  4. The passenger door may not lock or unlock properly with the remote or central locking system.
  5. Battery drain issues may arise due to prolonged interior light activation.

How to Fix B1812 RAM

  1. Inspect the Door Switch: Start by visually inspecting the door ajar switch for any signs of damage or wear. Test the switch with a multimeter to ensure it operates correctly when the door is closed.
  2. Check Wiring and Connectors: Examine the wiring harness leading to the door switch for any signs of fraying, corrosion, or damage. Repair or replace any compromised wiring or connectors.
  3. Test the Body Control Module: If the switch and wiring are intact, use a scan tool to check for BCM faults. Reprogram or replace the BCM if necessary.
  4. Realign the Door: Ensure that the passenger door is properly aligned and closes securely, as misalignment can prevent the switch from functioning correctly.
  5. Clear Codes and Test Drive: After repairs, clear the DTCs from the system and conduct a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved and the code does not reappear.

Cost to Fix B1812 RAM

The typical repair costs for addressing a B1812 code can range from $100 to $400, depending on the specific issue identified during diagnosis. This estimate includes parts such as a new door switch, wiring, or BCM, as well as labor costs. Labor rates vary widely based on location, vehicle make and model, and engine type. Most auto repair shops charge between $80 and $150 per hour; however, rates in metropolitan areas or at dealerships may be higher, while independent shops often charge less. It is advisable to check local rates for a more precise estimate and to obtain a thorough diagnosis before proceeding with repairs.

What does this mean?

Tech Notes for B1812 RAM

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 RAM Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1812 RAM related to the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short?

- Common symptoms include a warning light on the dashboard indicating a door ajar, interior lights staying on while driving, and issues with power door locks.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1812 RAM for the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short?

- Possible causes include a faulty door ajar sensor, damaged wiring in the door jamb, a short circuit in the door ajar circuit, or a problem with the body control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B1812 RAM for the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short?

- Diagnose the code by visually inspecting the door ajar sensor and wiring, conducting a continuity test on the circuit, and using a scan tool to check for fault codes in the body control module.

4. Are there any simple troubleshooting steps I can take for OBDII code B1812 RAM related to the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short?

- Yes, you can start by manually checking if the door is securely closed, inspecting the door latch for any obstructions, and cleaning the door ajar sensor to ensure proper contact.

5. What are the repair options for fixing OBDII code B1812 RAM for the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short?

- Repair options may involve replacing the faulty door ajar sensor, repairing damaged wiring, addressing any short circuits, or reprogramming the body control module if necessary.

6. Can driving with OBDII code B1812 RAM related to the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short cause any further damage to the vehicle?

- Driving with this code may not necessarily cause further damage, but it can lead to issues like draining the battery due to lights staying on or compromising the security of the vehicle.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1812 RAM for the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue, but it may range from around $100 for a simple sensor replacement to a few hundred dollars for more extensive wiring repairs.

8. Can I reset the OBDII code B1812 RAM for the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short myself?

- You can attempt to reset the code by using an OBDII scanner to clear the fault codes after addressing the underlying issue causing the code to appear.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid encountering OBDII code B1812 RAM for the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short in the future?

- Regularly checking and maintaining the door ajar sensors, keeping the door jambs clean and free of debris, and addressing any issues with door latches promptly can help prevent this code from reoccurring.

10. Is OBDII code B1812 RAM for the Passenger Door Ajar Circuit Short a common issue in certain vehicle makes and models?

- This code can be more prevalent in vehicles with power door locks and advanced interior lighting systems, but it may occur in various makes and models that utilize door ajar sensors.

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