What Does B1351 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected that the ignition key-in switch circuit is shorted to battery voltage when it should not be. The key-in circuit is designed to alert the vehicle when a key is in the ignition, triggering chimes and warnings. A short to battery means the circuit is seeing constant voltage instead of the expected ground or open state, causing the system to falsely believe a key is always present.
Common Causes
40%
Damaged or pinched wiring harness causing the key-in signal wire to contact a power wire, typically in the steering column or under the dash
30%
Faulty ignition switch with internal short circuit creating a constant battery voltage path
20%
Corroded or damaged connector at the ignition switch or BCM allowing cross-circuit contamination
10%
Failed Body Control Module with internal circuit fault on the key-in input
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform a visual inspection of the ignition switch wiring harness and connectors in the steering column area for obvious damage, pinching, rubbing, or melted insulation that could cause a short to power
2
Step 2: Disconnect the ignition switch connector and use a digital multimeter to measure voltage on the key-in signal wire at the BCM connector with ignition off and key removed - should read 0V or near ground, if battery voltage is present the short is in the harness
3
Step 3: If no voltage present at BCM with switch disconnected, reconnect switch and measure the key-in signal wire voltage with key removed versus key inserted - if voltage is present with key removed, replace the ignition switch
4
Step 4: Check for proper ground at the ignition switch and verify all connector pins are not bent, corroded, or making contact with adjacent pins - clean and repair connections as needed
5
Step 5: If all wiring and switch test normal but code persists, perform BCM power and ground circuit verification, then suspect internal BCM fault requiring module replacement
6
Step 6: After repair, clear codes, cycle the ignition with key insertion and removal multiple times, and verify the key-in warning chime functions properly and code does not return
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $600
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected that the ignition key-in switch circuit is shorted to battery voltage when it should not be. The key-in circuit is designed to alert the vehicle when a key is in the ignition, triggering chimes and warnings. A short to battery means the ...
The most common cause of B1351 (Ignition Key-In Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or pinched wiring harness causing the key-in signal wire to contact a power wire, typically in the steering column or under the dash
Typical repair costs for B1351 range from $100 to $600, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to drive as this only affects convenience features like key-in-ignition warning chimes and door open alerts. Primary concern is a constant warning chime or drain on battery if the circuit remains shorted, but no immediate safety risk exists.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1351 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control and Warning Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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