What Does B1206 Mean?
B1206 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an open circuit in the EIC (Electronic Instrument Cluster) Switch-1 Assembly circuit. This means electrical continuity has been lost between the BCM and a switch assembly integrated into or associated with the instrument cluster, preventing proper communication or signal transmission. The open circuit could exist in the wiring harness, connectors, or the switch assembly itself.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or corroded wiring harness and connector terminals between BCM and EIC switch assembly
30%
Faulty EIC switch assembly with internal open circuit or broken solder joints
15%
Loose or disconnected electrical connector at switch assembly or BCM
10%
Failed Body Control Module with internal circuit fault
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of the instrument cluster area and locate the EIC Switch-1 Assembly. Check all electrical connectors for proper seating, corrosion, bent pins, or physical damage. Disconnect and reconnect connectors to ensure proper contact.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, test for continuity through the circuit from the BCM connector to the EIC switch assembly connector with ignition off and connectors disconnected. Expected reading should be less than 5 ohms resistance for intact wiring.
3
Step 3: Check for power and ground at the EIC switch assembly connector using a multimeter with ignition on. Verify voltage matches manufacturer specifications (typically 5V or 12V reference) and that ground circuit shows less than 0.1V.
4
Step 4: If wiring and power/ground are confirmed good, test the EIC switch assembly by measuring resistance across switch terminals in various switch positions. Compare readings to manufacturer specifications or test a known-good switch for reference values.
5
Step 5: Clear the diagnostic code and operate the switch through all positions while monitoring live data for switch status changes. If no response is detected and wiring is confirmed good, replace the EIC switch assembly.
6
Step 6: After repairs, verify proper operation of all instrument cluster functions, clear codes, and perform a road test to confirm the fault does not return.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
B1206 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an open circuit in the EIC (Electronic Instrument Cluster) Switch-1 Assembly circuit. This means electrical continuity has been lost between the BCM and a switch assembly integrated into or associated with the instrument cluster, preventing ...
The most common cause of B1206 (EIC Switch-1 Assembly Circuit Open) is: Damaged or corroded wiring harness and connector terminals between BCM and EIC switch assembly
Typical repair costs for B1206 range from $100 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This code typically does not affect vehicle drivability or safety systems, though certain instrument cluster functions or switches may be inoperative. The vehicle is safe to drive, but repair should be completed to restore full functionality of instrument cluster controls.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1206 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Instrument Cluster / Body Control System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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