OBDHut

OBDHut

B1566

Easy (DIY)

Door Ajar Circuit Short To Ground

What Does B1566 Mean?

B1566 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground condition in the door ajar switch circuit. This means the wiring or switch for one or more door ajar sensors is making unintended contact with chassis ground, causing the BCM to continuously register a door as open. The system affects the vehicle's interior lighting, chime warnings, and security systems.

Common Causes

45%

Damaged or chafed wiring harness between door jamb switch and BCM, often in door hinge area from repeated opening/closing

Door wiring harness
Wire insulation
Door jamb connector

30%

Failed door ajar switch with internal short to ground or damaged switch housing allowing moisture intrusion

Door ajar switch
Door jamb switch assembly

15%

Corroded or damaged connector terminals at door jamb switch or BCM creating intermittent ground path

Door switch connector
BCM connector pins

10%

Water intrusion in door panel or kick panel causing circuit short through moisture contamination

Door panel seal
Vapor barrier
Wiring harness

Diagnostic Steps

1

Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all door jamb switches and wiring at each door, especially in hinge areas. Look for damaged insulation, exposed copper wire, corrosion, or signs of water intrusion. Check for proper switch operation by manually pressing each switch.

2

Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, disconnect the door ajar switch connector suspected and measure resistance between the switch signal wire and ground with switch both open and closed. Should read open circuit (infinite resistance) when door is closed and continuity when pressed. A constant short to ground (0-5 ohms) indicates faulty switch.

3

Step 3: If switch tests good, disconnect BCM connector and measure resistance from door ajar circuit wire at BCM harness side to chassis ground with switch disconnected. Should read infinite resistance; low resistance indicates wiring harness short to ground between switch and BCM.

4

Step 4: Inspect door hinge area wiring closely by flexing harness while monitoring resistance. Wiggle test door boot wiring between door and body pillar as this is common failure point. Check for wire pinched in door striker or latch mechanism.

5

Step 5: After repair, reconnect all components, clear codes, and cycle each door open and closed multiple times. Verify interior lights and door ajar warning function correctly and code does not return. Test with vehicle locked and alarm armed if equipped.

Estimated Repair Cost

$75 - $350

Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location

Frequently Asked Questions

What does B1566 mean?

B1566 indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground condition in the door ajar switch circuit. This means the wiring or switch for one or more door ajar sensors is making unintended contact with chassis ground, causing the BCM to continuously register a door as open. The sys...

What causes B1566?

The most common cause of B1566 (Door Ajar Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness between door jamb switch and BCM, often in door hinge area from repeated opening/closing

How much does it cost to fix B1566?

Typical repair costs for B1566 range from $75 to $350, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.

Is it safe to drive with B1566?

Safe to continue driving, but interior lights may remain on draining the battery, door ajar warning may constantly chime, and security system may not arm properly. Repair within a few weeks to prevent battery discharge and restore proper security function.

How do I diagnose B1566?

Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1566 to identify the root cause.

OBDHut Mobile App

Scan codes directly from your car with the OBDHut app.

Coming Soon

Quick Info

Category

Body

System

Body Control and Interior Lighting System

Difficulty

Easy (DIY)

Type

Manufacturer

Recommended Tools

OBD2 Scanner

A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.