AutoCodes – Mercury – B123A Mercury

B123A Mercury Code - Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short

Quick Answer

The Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) monitors the multifunction switch position. Common causes include Faulty Left Front Turn Indicator, Left Front Turn Indicator harness is open or shorted, Left Front Turn Indicator 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: B123A Mercury indicates Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Left Front Turn Indicator, Left Front Turn Indicator harness is open or shorted, Left Front Turn Indicator 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 864

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 19, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B123A Mercury Description

The Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) monitors the multifunction switch position. When the multifunction switch is in the left or right TURN position, the SCCM sends a turn signal switch_status message over the communication network to the Body Control Module (BCM) indicating a request for the left or right turn signal. When the BCM receives a request for a turn signal, the BCM supplies on/off voltage to the appropriate turn lamps.
The timed on/off cycle for turn lamps is determined by the BCM and is set to flash approximately 80 times per minute if both the front and rear turn signal lamps operate correctly. If an individual turn signal lamp is inoperative, the BCM fast flashes the remaining turn lamp approximately 160 times per minute to indicate a bulb outage to the driver. The OBDII sets when the BCM detects the front, rear or exterior mirror turn lamp output is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code B123A Mercury - Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short - AutoCodes.com — B123A Mercury Code - Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B123A Mercury?

Faulty Left Front Turn Indicator
Left Front Turn Indicator harness is open or shorted
Left Front Turn Indicator circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)

How to Fix the DTC B123A Mercury?

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

B123A:11 Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short To Ground
B123A:15 Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short To Battery or Open

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B123A Mercury 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.

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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 B123A Mercury Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B123A in a Mercury related to the Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short?

The common symptoms include the left front turn signal not working, rapid flashing of the turn signal, or a constant illumination of the turn signal indicator on the dashboard.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code B123A related to the Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short in a Mercury?

Possible causes include a short circuit in the wiring of the left front turn signal, a faulty turn signal bulb, a damaged turn signal socket, or a problem with the turn signal switch.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code B123A in my Mercury indicating a Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short?

You can start by visually inspecting the left front turn signal bulb, checking the wiring and socket for any damage, and testing the turn signal switch for proper functionality. Using a multimeter to test for continuity and voltage can also help pinpoint the issue.

4. Can I repair OBDII code B123A related to the Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short in my Mercury on my own?

Yes, depending on the cause of the issue, you may be able to repair it on your own by replacing a faulty bulb, repairing damaged wiring, or replacing a defective turn signal socket. However, complex electrical issues may require professional assistance.

5. Is it safe to continue driving my Mercury with OBDII code B123A indicating a Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short?

It is not recommended to drive with this code active as it can affect your vehicle's visibility to other drivers, potentially leading to unsafe driving conditions. It's best to address the issue promptly.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B123A related to the Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short in a Mercury?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and whether you perform the repair yourself or seek professional help. Costs may range from a few dollars for a simple bulb replacement to a few hundred dollars for more complex repairs.

7. Can a faulty turn signal relay cause OBDII code B123A in a Mercury indicating a Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short?

While a faulty turn signal relay is not a common cause of this specific OBDII code, it can potentially contribute to issues with the turn signal circuit. It's worth checking and ruling out the relay as a possible cause.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code B123A related to the Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short in my Mercury make the problem go away?

Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing the code. It's important to diagnose and address the root cause of the problem to prevent it from recurring.

9. Can extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, trigger OBDII code B123A in a Mercury for the Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short?

Extreme weather conditions can potentially exacerbate existing electrical issues, including those related to turn signal circuits. It's essential to ensure that your vehicle's electrical system is properly maintained to prevent weather-related malfunctions.

10. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid encountering OBDII code B123A indicating a Left Front Turn Indicator Circuit Short in my Mercury?

Regularly checking and replacing turn signal bulbs, inspecting wiring for wear or damage, and keeping the turn signal sockets clean can help prevent issues that may trigger this OBDII code. Routine vehicle inspections can also help catch potential problems early.