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B1355

Critical
Moderate

Ignition Run Circuit Failure

What Does B1355 Mean?

B1355 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a fault in the ignition run circuit, which supplies power to various vehicle systems when the ignition is in the 'run' position. This circuit is critical for powering fuel pumps, ignition systems, engine control modules, and other essential components during vehicle operation. The BCM has identified either an open circuit, short to ground, excessive voltage drop, or loss of power in this circuit.

Safety Warning

Vehicle may experience no-start conditions, sudden engine shutdown while driving, or loss of critical systems like power steering and brakes. Do not drive the vehicle until fault is corrected as unexpected loss of power can create dangerous situations in traffic.

Common Causes

35%

Faulty ignition switch or worn ignition switch contacts causing intermittent or no power delivery to run circuit

Ignition Switch
Ignition Switch Connector

30%

Damaged or corroded wiring harness between ignition switch and BCM, including broken wires or poor connections

Ignition Run Circuit Wiring
Wire Harness Connectors
Ground Connections

20%

Failed or malfunctioning Body Control Module unable to properly monitor or control ignition run circuit

Body Control Module
BCM Connectors

10%

Blown fuse or fusible link in the ignition run circuit power distribution

Ignition Run Fuse
Fusible Link
Fuse Box

5%

Faulty ignition relay preventing proper power distribution to run circuit components

Ignition Run Relay
Relay Socket

Diagnostic Steps

1

Step 1: Verify battery voltage is 12.4V or higher with engine off. Check all fuses related to ignition run circuit in both under-hood and interior fuse boxes using test light or multimeter. Document any blown fuses or fusible links.

2

Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, backprobe the ignition switch connector with key in RUN position and measure voltage output on the run circuit wire (typically 12V+). Compare readings with key in OFF, ACC, and RUN positions to verify proper switching function.

3

Step 3: Inspect wiring harness from ignition switch to BCM for physical damage, chafing, corrosion, or loose connections. Pay special attention to areas where harness passes through firewall or near moving components. Check for voltage drop across circuit using multimeter (should be less than 0.5V under load).

4

Step 4: Check ignition run relay operation by swapping with known good relay of same type, or test relay coil resistance (typically 70-100 ohms) and contact continuity when energized. Listen for audible click when ignition is turned to run position.

5

Step 5: If all upstream components test good, check BCM connector terminals for corrosion, bent pins, or damage. Measure voltage at BCM ignition run input pin with key in run position (should read battery voltage).

6

Step 6: Clear codes and perform operational test with key in run position. Monitor live data for ignition run circuit status through scan tool. If fault returns immediately, suspect BCM internal failure; if intermittent, suspect connection or switch contact issues.

Estimated Repair Cost

$100 - $800

Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location

Frequently Asked Questions

What does B1355 mean?

B1355 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a fault in the ignition run circuit, which supplies power to various vehicle systems when the ignition is in the 'run' position. This circuit is critical for powering fuel pumps, ignition systems, engine control modules, and other essential ...

What causes B1355?

The most common cause of B1355 (Ignition Run Circuit Failure) is: Faulty ignition switch or worn ignition switch contacts causing intermittent or no power delivery to run circuit

How much does it cost to fix B1355?

Typical repair costs for B1355 range from $100 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.

Is it safe to drive with B1355?

Vehicle may experience no-start conditions, sudden engine shutdown while driving, or loss of critical systems like power steering and brakes. Do not drive the vehicle until fault is corrected as unexpected loss of power can create dangerous situations in traffic.

How do I diagnose B1355?

Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1355 to identify the root cause.

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Quick Info

Category

Body

System

Body Control and Ignition Power Distribution

Difficulty

Moderate

Type

Manufacturer

Recommended Tools

OBD2 Scanner

A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.