What Does B1697 Mean?
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an unwanted voltage (battery voltage) on the mirror control switch circuit for either the driver or passenger side. This occurs when the switch circuit is shorted directly to the battery positive supply instead of operating through its normal control voltage range. The BCM monitors these switch inputs and sets this code when it detects a continuous high voltage condition that shouldn't be present during normal operation.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to power between switch and BCM
30%
Failed mirror control switch with internal short to power circuit
15%
Water intrusion or corrosion in switch connector causing cross-circuit short
10%
Failed Body Control Module with internal short on switch input circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of mirror switch assembly and connectors for signs of water damage, corrosion, melted terminals, or physical damage. Remove switch from door panel and inspect connector pins for bent, corroded, or pushed-back terminals.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the mirror switch connector and use a digital multimeter to measure voltage on the switch harness side connector terminals with ignition on. All switch input circuits should show 0-5V reference voltage, not battery voltage (12-14V).
3
Step 3: With switch disconnected, check for continuity to battery voltage on each switch circuit wire using a multimeter. Wiggle and flex the door harness while monitoring for intermittent shorts. Focus on areas where harness passes through door hinge and any pinch points.
4
Step 4: If no wiring faults found, connect switch and monitor switch circuit voltage with a multimeter while operating each mirror adjustment direction. Voltage should pulse or vary between 0-5V, never reaching constant battery voltage during normal operation.
5
Step 5: If switch and wiring test normal, disconnect BCM connector and test for short to battery voltage on the mirror switch input circuit wire at the BCM side. This isolates whether fault is in harness or internal to BCM.
6
Step 6: After repairs, clear codes, operate mirror switches through all positions multiple times, and verify code does not return. Test with ignition on and engine running to confirm proper BCM monitoring.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $600
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an unwanted voltage (battery voltage) on the mirror control switch circuit for either the driver or passenger side. This occurs when the switch circuit is shorted directly to the battery positive supply instead of operating through ...
The most common cause of B1697 (Mirror Driver/Passenger Switch Circuit Short To Battery) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness causing short to power between switch and BCM
Typical repair costs for B1697 range from $100 to $600, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This fault does not affect vehicle safety or driveability and it is safe to continue driving. The mirror adjustment function may be disabled or inoperative, which could affect convenience and proper mirror positioning, but does not present an immediate safety concern requiring urgent repair.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1697 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control and Accessory Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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