What Does B1497 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short circuit to battery voltage in the decklid (trunk lid) punch-out sensor circuit. This sensor is typically used in convertible vehicles to detect if an emergency trunk release has been activated from inside the trunk compartment. The BCM has measured voltage higher than expected on the sensor signal circuit, indicating the circuit is shorted to a power source rather than functioning normally.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged wiring harness in decklid/trunk hinge area causing short to power
30%
Failed decklid punch-out sensor with internal short to power
15%
Chafed or pinched wiring at trunk latch assembly or routing points
10%
Water intrusion in sensor connector causing corrosion and voltage leakage
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of the decklid/trunk punch-out sensor and its wiring harness, paying close attention to areas where the harness flexes during trunk opening/closing and routing through the hinge area. Look for damaged insulation, pinched wires, or signs of chafing against metal surfaces.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the punch-out sensor connector at the sensor and measure voltage at the BCM-side connector using a digital multimeter. With ignition on, the signal wire should read 0-5V depending on manufacturer. If battery voltage (12V+) is present with sensor disconnected, the wiring harness has a short to power.
3
Step 3: If battery voltage is NOT present at the BCM-side connector with sensor disconnected, measure resistance of the punch-out sensor itself. Typical sensors should show resistance between 100-10k ohms. A reading of 0 ohms or intermittent open/short indicates a failed sensor.
4
Step 4: Inspect the sensor connector terminals for corrosion, pushed-back pins, or moisture intrusion. Clean terminals with electrical contact cleaner and apply dielectric grease if corrosion is present.
5
Step 5: If wiring harness short is confirmed, carefully trace the harness through the trunk hinge area and along the routing path to locate the exact point of damage. Repair damaged section using appropriate gauge wire, heat shrink tubing, and proper crimping tools.
6
Step 6: After repairs, clear the code and cycle the trunk lid open and close 10-15 times while monitoring live data for proper sensor operation and verify the code does not return.
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 battery voltage in the decklid (trunk lid) punch-out sensor circuit. This sensor is typically used in convertible vehicles to detect if an emergency trunk release has been activated from inside the trunk compartment. T...
The most common cause of B1497 (Decklid Punch-Out Sensor Battery Short) is: Damaged wiring harness in decklid/trunk hinge area causing short to power
Typical repair costs for B1497 range from $120 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this affects only the emergency trunk release detection system. However, the trunk emergency release safety feature may not function properly, which could pose a risk if someone becomes trapped in the trunk. Repair at earliest convenience.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1497 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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