What Does B1898 Mean?
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground condition in the Chime Input #2 circuit. The chime system provides audible warnings to the driver for various vehicle conditions such as door ajar, key-in-ignition, lights on, or other warning scenarios. The BCM has identified that the circuit voltage for the second chime input is reading lower than expected, indicating an unintended ground path in the wiring or component.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged, pinched, or chafed wiring harness causing the chime input circuit to contact ground
25%
Faulty door jamb switch or sensor creating an internal short to ground
20%
Corroded or damaged connector terminals allowing moisture intrusion and ground contact
10%
Failed Body Control Module with internal circuit fault
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform a visual inspection of all wiring harnesses related to chime inputs, particularly around door hinges, under dash areas, and near the BCM. Look for pinched, chafed, or damaged wires that may be contacting ground.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, disconnect the BCM connector and measure resistance between the Chime Input #2 circuit wire and ground. Reading should be greater than 10k ohms; a low resistance (less than 5 ohms) confirms a short to ground in the wiring or component.
3
Step 3: Disconnect all switches and sensors associated with Chime Input #2 (door jamb switches, key switches, etc.) one at a time while monitoring the resistance to ground. If resistance returns to normal after disconnecting a specific component, that component is internally shorted.
4
Step 4: Inspect all connector terminals for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture. Clean or repair connectors as needed. If wiring damage is found, repair or replace the affected section using proper splicing techniques and heat shrink tubing.
5
Step 5: After repairs, reconnect all components and the BCM. Clear the code and test chime functionality by triggering various chime conditions (opening doors, leaving keys in ignition, etc.). Verify the code does not return and all chime functions operate properly.
Estimated Repair Cost
$75 - $450
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected a short to ground condition in the Chime Input #2 circuit. The chime system provides audible warnings to the driver for various vehicle conditions such as door ajar, key-in-ignition, lights on, or other warning sc...
The most common cause of B1898 (Chime Input #2 Circuit Short to Ground) is: Damaged, pinched, or chafed wiring harness causing the chime input circuit to contact ground
Typical repair costs for B1898 range from $75 to $450, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This code does not affect vehicle drivability or safety systems and it is safe to continue driving. However, the audible warning chime may not function properly, preventing you from being alerted to conditions like doors being ajar or lights left on, which could lead to inconvenience or battery drain.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1898 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control and Warning Systems
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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