What Does B1394 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the power door memory lock relay control circuit. The BCM monitors the relay circuit and has identified that voltage is present when it should not be, suggesting the circuit is shorted to a 12V power source. This affects the door memory lock function which controls power seat and mirror position storage when doors are locked/unlocked.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to battery voltage in relay control circuit
30%
Failed power door memory lock relay with internal short to power
15%
Faulty BCM with internal driver circuit failure causing false voltage detection
10%
Corroded or moisture-damaged connector pins creating unintended voltage path
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring from BCM to power door memory lock relay, checking for pinched, chafed, or damaged wires near door hinges, under seats, and body mounting points where wires may contact metal surfaces
2
Step 2: Disconnect the power door memory lock relay and use a digital multimeter to measure voltage at the BCM control circuit terminal (relay coil side) with ignition on - should read 0V; if battery voltage is present, wiring has short to power between BCM and relay socket
3
Step 3: With relay disconnected, check resistance between the BCM relay control wire and battery positive at the relay socket - should read infinite (open circuit); any measurable resistance indicates a short to power in the harness
4
Step 4: If wiring tests normal, reconnect relay and backprobe the BCM connector at the relay control pin with multimeter while commanding relay activation - verify BCM can switch between 0V and battery voltage; if stuck at battery voltage, BCM driver is likely failed
5
Step 5: Inspect relay socket and BCM connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture intrusion using a flashlight and contact cleaner; clean and apply dielectric grease if contamination found
6
Step 6: After repairs, clear codes, cycle door locks multiple times, and verify memory seat/mirror functions operate correctly without code returning
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the power door memory lock relay control circuit. The BCM monitors the relay circuit and has identified that voltage is present when it should not be, suggesting the circuit is shorted to a 12V power source....
The most common cause of B1394 (Power Door Memory Lock Relay Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to battery voltage in relay control circuit
Typical repair costs for B1394 range from $150 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this only affects convenience features like memory seat and mirror positions tied to door lock function. Repair at convenience, though prolonged short could potentially drain battery or damage BCM over time.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1394 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control and Convenience Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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