What Does B1538 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected that the Memory 2 position switch circuit for the driver's seat or mirror memory system is shorted to ground. The circuit voltage has dropped below the expected threshold, preventing the memory position from being stored or recalled. This typically affects power seat, mirror, and sometimes steering wheel or pedal positioning memory functions.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged wiring harness or chafed wire to memory switch creating ground short
30%
Failed memory seat switch with internal short to ground
15%
Corroded or water-damaged connector pins at memory switch or BCM
10%
Failed Body Control Module with internal circuit fault
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Visually inspect the memory seat switch and all associated wiring for obvious damage, chafing against metal components, pinched wires in seat tracks, or signs of water intrusion at connectors
2
Step 2: Disconnect the memory switch connector and measure resistance between the Memory 2 switch signal wire and ground with a digital multimeter - should read infinite resistance (open circuit) with switch not pressed
3
Step 3: If resistance to ground is low (less than 10 ohms), disconnect BCM connector and retest to isolate whether short is in the wiring harness or the switch itself
4
Step 4: With BCM disconnected, check continuity from the Memory 2 switch signal pin through the harness to BCM connector - should show open circuit to ground and proper continuity through the circuit
5
Step 5: If wiring tests good, substitute known-good memory switch or test switch internal resistance according to manufacturer specifications to confirm switch failure
6
Step 6: Clear codes, reconnect all components, and verify memory function operates correctly by programming and recalling Memory 2 position without code returning
Estimated Repair Cost
$120 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected that the Memory 2 position switch circuit for the driver's seat or mirror memory system is shorted to ground. The circuit voltage has dropped below the expected threshold, preventing the memory position from being stored or recalled. Thi...
The most common cause of B1538 (Memory 2 Switch Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged wiring harness or chafed wire to memory switch creating ground short
Typical repair costs for B1538 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 only affects convenience features like memory seat positioning. Repair at your convenience, though proper seating position is important for airbag effectiveness and driver comfort.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1538 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Memory Seat and Mirror Positioning System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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