AutoCodes – Lincoln – B135C Lincoln

B135C Lincoln Code - Heater Element Circuit Short

Quick Answer

When steering wheel heat is requested and the engine is running, the Heated Steering Wheel Module (HSWM) applies voltage and ground to the steering wheel heating element (integral to the steering wheel). Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel, Steering Wheel harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: B135C Lincoln indicates Heater Element Circuit Short.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel, Steering Wheel harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 969

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 19, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B135C Lincoln Description

When steering wheel heat is requested and the engine is running, the Heated Steering Wheel Module (HSWM) applies voltage and ground to the steering wheel heating element (integral to the steering wheel). The steering wheel heating element draws between 1 and 10 amps of current depending on steering wheel temperature. The HSWM uses a sensor in the steering wheel (integral to the steering wheel) to maintain the heated steering wheel temperature. The HSWM is designed to remain on, heating the steering wheel and maintaining temperature until switched OFF using the FDIM or the ignition is turned OFF. The OBDII code sets when the heated steering wheel is commanded on and the HSWM senses current greater than 10 amps or less than 1 amp from the steering wheel heating element output circuit, indicating a short to ground or voltage, or when the steering wheel heating element output Field Effect Transistor (FET) in the HSWM has a thermal failure. When this fault sets, the steering wheel heating element output is disabled until the ignition is cycled.

OBDII Code B135C Lincoln - Heater Element Circuit Short - AutoCodes.com — B135C Lincoln Code - Heater Element Circuit Short

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B135C Lincoln?

Faulty Steering Wheel
Steering Wheel harness is open or shorted
Steering Wheel circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Clockspring
Faulty Heated Steering Wheel Module (HSWM)

How to Fix the DTC B135C Lincoln?

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

B135C:11 Heater Element Circuit Short to Ground
B135C:15 Heater Element Circuit Short to Battery or Open

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B135C Lincoln 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 B135C Lincoln Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B135C in a Lincoln related to the Heater Element Circuit Short?

- The common symptoms include a malfunctioning or non-responsive heating element in the vehicle's system, leading to inadequate heating in the cabin.

2. What are the possible causes of the Heater Element Circuit Short OBDII code B135C in a Lincoln?

- The code B135C can be triggered by a short circuit in the heater element circuit, damaged wiring, or a faulty heating element itself.

3. How can I diagnose the Heater Element Circuit Short issue causing OBDII code B135C in my Lincoln?

- To diagnose the problem, you can use a multimeter to test the resistance in the heating element circuit, visually inspect the wiring for any damage, and check the heating element for proper functionality.

4. Can I still drive my Lincoln with the OBDII code B135C related to the Heater Element Circuit Short?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this issue, as it can lead to discomfort due to lack of proper heating and may cause further damage to the heating system.

5. How do I repair the Heater Element Circuit Short problem causing OBDII code B135C in my Lincoln?

- The repair process involves locating and fixing the short circuit in the heater element circuit, repairing or replacing any damaged wiring, and replacing the heating element if necessary.

6. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting the Heater Element Circuit Short OBDII code B135C in my Lincoln?

- You can start by checking the fuses related to the heating system, inspecting the wiring for any visible damage, and ensuring proper connections in the heating circuit.

7. Is it advisable to reset the OBDII code B135C related to the Heater Element Circuit Short in my Lincoln after making repairs?

- Yes, it is recommended to clear the code using an OBDII scanner after repairing the Heater Element Circuit Short issue to ensure the problem has been resolved.

8. Can a faulty thermostat cause the OBDII code B135C related to the Heater Element Circuit Short in a Lincoln?

- While a faulty thermostat can impact the heating system, the B135C code specifically points to a short circuit in the heater element circuit rather than a thermostat issue.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the Heater Element Circuit Short issue causing OBDII code B135C in a Lincoln?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the extent of the damage, but it may involve expenses for parts such as wiring, heating element, and labor charges for diagnostics and repair.

10. Will fixing the OBDII code B135C related to the Heater Element Circuit Short in my Lincoln improve the overall heating performance of the vehicle?

- Yes, resolving the Heater Element Circuit Short problem indicated by code B135C will help restore proper heating functionality in your Lincoln, ensuring comfort during colder weather.