What Does B1494 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short circuit to ground in the ignition cylinder sensor circuit. The ignition cylinder sensor monitors the position of the key in the ignition lock cylinder and communicates this information to the BCM for security and accessory power control. A ground short means the sensor signal wire is making unintended contact with chassis ground or a grounded component, pulling voltage to zero.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness between ignition cylinder sensor and BCM, creating direct ground contact
30%
Failed ignition cylinder sensor with internal short to ground
15%
Corroded or moisture-damaged connector terminals at sensor or BCM causing ground short
10%
BCM internal fault with grounded input circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of ignition cylinder sensor and its wiring harness from the lock cylinder to the BCM, looking for pinched, chafed, or damaged wires, especially near moving parts and sharp metal edges
2
Step 2: Disconnect the ignition cylinder sensor connector and measure resistance between the sensor signal pin and chassis ground using a digital multimeter. Reading should be infinite (open circuit); any measurable resistance indicates sensor internal failure
3
Step 3: With sensor disconnected, measure resistance between the signal wire pin at the harness side and chassis ground. Infinite resistance is normal; low resistance indicates wiring harness short to ground between connector and BCM
4
Step 4: Inspect all connector terminals for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture intrusion. Clean or repair connectors as needed and apply dielectric grease
5
Step 5: If wiring and connectors test normal, perform resistance test on suspect sensor by checking manufacturer specifications for proper resistance values across sensor terminals in different key positions
6
Step 6: Clear codes, reconnect all components, cycle ignition through all positions, and verify code does not return. Monitor live data for proper sensor signal voltage (typically 0-5V range varying with key position)
Estimated Repair Cost
$120 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short circuit to ground in the ignition cylinder sensor circuit. The ignition cylinder sensor monitors the position of the key in the ignition lock cylinder and communicates this information to the BCM for security and accessory power ...
The most common cause of B1494 (Ignition Cylinder Sensor Ground Short) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness between ignition cylinder sensor and BCM, creating direct ground contact
Typical repair costs for B1494 range from $120 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Vehicle may experience intermittent no-start conditions, failure to recognize key position, or inability to shift out of park. While the vehicle may still operate if it starts, ignition accessory functions and anti-theft system may be compromised. Repair should be completed promptly to avoid being stranded.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1494 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Security and Ignition System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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