What Does B1417 Mean?
B1417 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground condition in the left rear power window motor circuit. This means excessive current is flowing through the circuit due to an unintended electrical path to ground, which triggered the BCM's protective monitoring system. The BCM has likely disabled power window operation to prevent damage to the control module or wiring harness.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness between BCM and left rear door, particularly at door hinge flex point or through door jamb boot
30%
Faulty left rear power window motor with internal short to ground in windings or housing contact
15%
Water intrusion or corrosion in left rear door module or window switch causing ground fault
10%
Damaged BCM internal power window driver circuit or connector pins shorted to ground
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of left rear door wiring harness, particularly at hinge flex points and door jamb boot area. Look for chafed, pinched, or damaged wires showing bare copper contacting metal surfaces
2
Step 2: Disconnect left rear window motor connector and measure resistance from motor power supply pins to ground using digital multimeter. Should read infinite resistance (open circuit); any continuity indicates internal motor short
3
Step 3: With motor disconnected, check resistance from BCM harness side motor circuit wires to chassis ground. Should read infinite resistance; low resistance indicates wiring harness short to ground
4
Step 4: Inspect left rear door module and window switch for water damage, corrosion, or burnt components. Check connector pins for corrosion or pushed-back terminals causing intermittent ground contact
5
Step 5: If all wiring and motor test good, inspect BCM connector pins for damage, corrosion, or signs of overheating. Measure resistance on BCM-side connector from window motor control pins to ground with BCM disconnected
6
Step 6: Clear codes, reconnect all components, and operate left rear window while monitoring live data for current draw. Normal operation is 3-8 amps; immediate spike or fault reoccurrence confirms repair or indicates BCM replacement needed
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
B1417 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground condition in the left rear power window motor circuit. This means excessive current is flowing through the circuit due to an unintended electrical path to ground, which triggered the BCM's protective monitoring system. The ...
The most common cause of B1417 (Power Window LR Motor Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness between BCM and left rear door, particularly at door hinge flex point or through door jamb boot
Typical repair costs for B1417 range from $100 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this only affects left rear window operation and does not impact vehicle control or safety systems. Repair at convenience, but address promptly if window is stuck in down position for security and weather protection concerns.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1417 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control System - Power Window Circuit
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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