What Does B1692 Mean?
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground in the autolamp delay circuit, which controls how long exterior lights remain illuminated after the vehicle is turned off or doors are closed. The BCM monitors circuit resistance and voltage, and when it detects abnormally low resistance or voltage being pulled to ground in the delay timer circuit, it sets this fault code. This affects the automatic headlight delay feature that provides illumination for occupant convenience and safety when exiting the vehicle.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness creating a short to ground in the autolamp delay circuit, commonly near door hinges, under dashboard, or in engine compartment routing
25%
Faulty autolamp delay relay with internal short to ground or corroded relay socket creating ground path
20%
Body Control Module internal fault with shorted output driver for autolamp delay circuit
10%
Moisture intrusion or corrosion in autolamp circuit connectors causing intermittent or permanent short to ground
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all wiring and connectors in the autolamp delay circuit, focusing on areas prone to damage (door jambs, under-dash harness, fender wells). Look for chafed insulation, pinched wires, melted connectors, or corrosion. Check ground connection integrity.
2
Step 2: Locate and remove the autolamp delay relay from its socket. Using a digital multimeter, measure resistance between the relay control circuit terminal at the harness side and known good chassis ground. Reading should be greater than 10k ohms; lower readings indicate a short to ground in the wiring harness.
3
Step 3: With relay removed and ignition off, disconnect the BCM connector that controls the autolamp delay circuit. Measure resistance between the autolamp delay output wire at the BCM connector and ground. Should read open circuit (OL); continuity indicates wiring harness short between BCM and relay socket.
4
Step 4: If all wiring checks pass, perform BCM output driver test by reconnecting BCM, clearing codes, and commanding autolamp delay function active using bi-directional controls. Monitor voltage at relay control circuit; erratic voltage or inability to control suggests internal BCM fault requiring module replacement.
5
Step 5: Repair identified short to ground by replacing damaged wiring section, relay, or BCM as diagnosed. Clear codes and perform functional test of autolamp delay feature by locking vehicle and verifying lights remain on for programmed delay period, then verify code does not return.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground in the autolamp delay circuit, which controls how long exterior lights remain illuminated after the vehicle is turned off or doors are closed. The BCM monitors circuit resistance and voltage, and when it detects abnorma...
The most common cause of B1692 (Autolamp Delay Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness creating a short to ground in the autolamp delay circuit, commonly near door hinges, under dashboard, or in engine compartment routing
Typical repair costs for B1692 range from $100 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Vehicle is safe to drive as this only affects the convenience feature of delayed headlight shutoff. The primary lighting functions remain operational, though continuous short to ground could potentially drain the battery over extended periods if severe enough.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1692 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control and Lighting System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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