AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B051A Chevrolet

B051A Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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 1,506

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B051A Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the B051A Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

B051A 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051A 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051A 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit
B051A 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit

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 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B051A in a Chevrolet related to the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit?

The common symptoms include malfunctioning left side assist step, difficulty extending or retracting the step, and an illuminated warning light on the dashboard.

2. What are the possible causes of the OBDII code B051A in a Chevrolet?

Possible causes of this code include a faulty left side assist step motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, or a malfunctioning control module.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit in a Chevrolet?

Diagnosing the problem involves inspecting the wiring and connectors for any visible damage, testing the left side assist step motor for proper functionality, and using a scan tool to retrieve the specific fault code.

4. Can I still drive my Chevrolet with the OBDII code B051A present?

While it may be possible to drive the vehicle with this code, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to avoid potential safety hazards and further damage to the left side assist step system.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit issue in a Chevrolet?

Repair tips include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the left side assist step motor if necessary, and resetting the control module after making repairs.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code B051A in a Chevrolet without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the root cause will only clear the fault temporarily, and the warning light is likely to reappear once the system detects the problem again.

7. Can weather conditions affect the operation of the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit in a Chevrolet?

Extreme weather conditions such as moisture or extreme temperatures can potentially impact the performance of the left side assist step system and trigger the B051A fault code.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit issue in a Chevrolet?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the problem, but it may involve expenses for parts replacement, labor, and diagnostic services.

9. Is it recommended to address the OBDII code B051A in a Chevrolet on my own, or should I seek professional help?

While some simple inspections and repairs can be done by DIY enthusiasts, complex issues with the Left Side Assist Step Motor Control Circuit may require the expertise of a professional mechanic.

10. Can ignoring the OBDII code B051A in a Chevrolet lead to more severe problems in the long run?

Ignoring this fault code can potentially result in complete failure of the left side assist step system, compromised safety while entering or exiting the vehicle, and may lead to more costly repairs down the line.