What Does B1679 Mean?
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the alarm panic button input circuit. The panic button circuit should normally be grounded or floating, but the BCM is seeing constant battery voltage on this input line. This prevents the panic alarm function from operating correctly and may cause unintended alarm activation.
Common Causes
40%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing the panic button circuit wire to contact a power wire or terminal
30%
Failed panic button switch with internal short to power circuit
20%
Corroded or damaged connector at BCM or panic button causing cross-circuit short
10%
Failed Body Control Module with internal circuit fault on panic input channel
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring and connectors between the panic button and BCM, looking for damaged insulation, pinched wires, melted connectors, or signs of water intrusion
2
Step 2: Disconnect the panic button switch or remote transmitter and measure voltage at the panic input circuit terminal at the BCM connector using a digital multimeter - should read 0V with switch disconnected; if battery voltage is still present, wiring harness has short to power
3
Step 3: If no voltage present with switch disconnected, measure resistance of the panic button switch in both pressed and released positions - switch should show open circuit (infinite resistance) when released and continuity to ground when pressed, any path to battery voltage indicates failed switch
4
Step 4: Inspect BCM connector for corrosion, bent pins, or terminal-to-terminal shorts using a flashlight and magnification; check for moisture or foreign material causing cross-circuit contamination
5
Step 5: If wiring harness short is confirmed, trace the panic circuit wire through its entire length focusing on areas near power distribution points, door hinges, and harness routing clips where abrasion commonly occurs
6
Step 6: After repair, clear codes, cycle ignition, and test panic function multiple times while monitoring live data to verify BCM sees proper ground signal when button is pressed and open/floating circuit when released
Estimated Repair Cost
$75 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to battery voltage in the alarm panic button input circuit. The panic button circuit should normally be grounded or floating, but the BCM is seeing constant battery voltage on this input line. This prevents the panic alarm f...
The most common cause of B1679 (Alarm Panic Input Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing the panic button circuit wire to contact a power wire or terminal
Typical repair costs for B1679 range from $75 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Vehicle is completely safe to drive as this only affects the panic alarm function. Repair can be scheduled at convenience, though the panic alarm feature will not work properly until resolved.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1679 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Vehicle Security and Alarm System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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