AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The Assist Step Control (ASC) Module controls the running board actuators to extend or retract the running boards. Common causes include Faulty Left Side Assist Step Motor, Left Side Assist Step Motor harness is open or shorted, Left Side Assist Step Motor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means: B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Left Side Assist Step Motor, Left Side Assist Step Motor harness is open or shorted, Left Side Assist Step Motor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?: The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

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Code Popularity 308

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 13, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Assist Step Control (ASC) Module controls the running board actuators to extend or retract the running boards. Each actuator consists of an electric motor and a potentiometer. The module supplies a low reference and 10-volt reference source voltage to the potentiometer. The ASC control module monitors the voltage drop across the potentiometer on the position signal circuit. When the actuator shaft rotates, the voltage on the position signal circuit changes. The ASC control module supplies the actuator motor with a 12-volt control circuit and a ground control circuit. The ASC module controls the direction of the actuator by changing the polarity of the control circuits.

OBDII Code B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Faulty Left Side Assist Step Motor
Left Side Assist Step Motor harness is open or shorted
Left Side Assist Step Motor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Assist Step Control (ASC) Module

How to Fix the DTC B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B051A:0B Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Current Above Threshold
B051A:01 Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Short to Battery
B051A:02 Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Short to Ground
B051A:04 Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit Open Circuit

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code B051A on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicate?

The B051A code signifies an issue in the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit, typically pointing to a malfunction related to the electric running board's motor control circuit on the driver's side.

2. What are common symptoms of code B051A in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common symptoms include the left side assist step not deploying or retracting properly, unusual noises when the assist step moves, or complete non-functionality of the left assist step.

3. What can cause the B051A code to appear on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Causes might include faulty or damaged motor of the left side assist step, corroded or damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, or a bad fuse.

4. How do I diagnose the B051A code on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis should start with a visual inspection of the motor and wiring associated with the left side assist step. Check for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Use a multimeter to verify the integrity of the motor and the continuity of the circuit.

5. Can I drive my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with the B051A code active?

Yes, you can still drive your vehicle; however, the functionality of the left side assist step may be compromised, which could be inconvenient and potentially unsafe if the step does not deploy correctly.

6. What repairs can fix the B051A code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs might include replacing the left side assist step motor, repairing or replacing any faulty wiring or connectors, and checking the fuses related to the system.

7. Is it expensive to fix the B051A code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

The cost can vary widely depending on the specific repair needed. Motor replacement tends to be the most expensive fix, while repairing wiring or replacing a fuse would be less costly.

8. How urgent is it to address the B051A code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

While it's not critical for the overall drivability of your truck, it should be addressed promptly to ensure the functionality and safety of the assist step, especially if it's used frequently.

9. Could the B051A code affect other electrical systems in my Silverado?

Generally, this code is specific to the assist step circuit and should not affect other electrical systems. However, if the underlying issue is related to a broader electrical problem, other systems could potentially be impacted.

10. What tools are necessary to diagnose the B051A code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Basic tools for diagnosing this code would include a digital multimeter to test electrical connections and continuity, and a scan tool capable of reading Chevrolet-specific codes and live data for more complex diagnostics.