What Does B1631 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an electrical fault in the driver's side mirror motor or control circuit. The BCM monitors the mirror adjustment system and has identified either an open circuit, short circuit, excessive resistance, or motor failure in the left mirror's horizontal or vertical positioning motor circuit. This is a manufacturer-specific body control code related to power mirror functionality.
Common Causes
40%
Failed mirror motor assembly or internal motor winding short/open circuit
30%
Damaged or corroded wiring harness between door jamb and mirror assembly due to flexing and weather exposure
20%
Corroded or loose electrical connector at mirror assembly or door module
10%
Failed Body Control Module or door control module internal mirror driver circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of driver's side mirror assembly for physical damage, water intrusion, or obvious connector issues. Check mirror operation using switch controls and note if mirror moves in any direction or is completely inoperative.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, check for battery voltage (12-14V) at the mirror connector with ignition on while activating the mirror switch in all directions. Verify ground circuit continuity to ensure power is reaching the mirror assembly.
3
Step 3: Disconnect the mirror connector and measure resistance across mirror motor terminals (typically 5-50 ohms depending on manufacturer). Infinite resistance indicates open motor windings; near-zero resistance indicates shorted motor.
4
Step 4: Inspect wiring harness in door jamb area for chafing, breaks, or corrosion by flexing the door open and closed while monitoring circuit continuity with multimeter. Pay special attention to the rubber boot area where wires pass through door jamb.
5
Step 5: If wiring and mirror motor test within specifications, perform BCM output test using scan tool active tests to command mirror movement while monitoring voltage at BCM connector. This isolates whether fault is in BCM driver circuit or downstream components.
6
Step 6: After repairs, clear codes, cycle mirror through full range of motion in all directions, and verify code does not return. Perform several door open/close cycles to confirm harness repair integrity.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $600
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an electrical fault in the driver's side mirror motor or control circuit. The BCM monitors the mirror adjustment system and has identified either an open circuit, short circuit, excessive resistance, or motor failure in the left mirror's...
The most common cause of B1631 (Mirror Driver Left Circuit Failure) is: Failed mirror motor assembly or internal motor winding short/open circuit
Typical repair costs for B1631 range from $150 to $600, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this only affects mirror adjustment convenience. However, proper mirror positioning is important for visibility and safe lane changes, so repair should be completed promptly for optimal driving safety.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1631 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control System - Power Mirror
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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