AutoCodes – Generic – B1386

B1386 Code - Oil Level Lamp Circuit Short To Ground

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Oil Level Lamp. Common causes include Faulty Oil Level Lamp, Oil Level Lamp harness is open or shorted, Oil Level Lamp 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: B1386 indicates Oil Level Lamp Circuit Short To Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Oil Level Lamp, Oil Level Lamp harness is open or shorted, Oil Level Lamp 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 5,378

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 20, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1386 Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Oil Level Lamp. The PCM sets the OBDII code when the Oil Level Lamp is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code B1386 - Oil Level Lamp Circuit Short To Ground - AutoCodes.com — B1386 Code - Oil Level Lamp Circuit Short To Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1386?

Faulty Oil Level Lamp
Oil Level Lamp harness is open or shorted
Oil Level Lamp circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC B1386?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1386 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 B1386 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1386 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1386 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 B1386 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1386 (Oil Level Lamp Circuit Short To Ground)?

- The common symptoms include a malfunctioning oil level lamp or oil level sensor, illuminated oil warning light on the dashboard, or inaccurate oil level readings.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1386?

- The code B1386 can be triggered by a short to ground in the oil level lamp circuit, a faulty oil level sensor, wiring issues, or a malfunctioning oil level indicator.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B1386?

- A thorough inspection of the oil level sensor, oil level lamp circuit, and related wiring is necessary to diagnose the exact cause of the code. Using a multimeter to test for continuity and voltage can help pinpoint the issue.

4. Can a short to ground in the oil level lamp circuit be repaired?

- Yes, a short to ground in the oil level lamp circuit can be repaired by identifying and fixing the specific location of the short. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring or components.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1386 present?

- It is not recommended to drive with OBDII code B1386 as it can indicate potential issues with the oil level monitoring system, which is crucial for engine health and performance.

6. How do I reset OBDII code B1386 after repairing the issue?

- After repairing the underlying cause of OBDII code B1386, you can reset the code using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the vehicle's battery for a few minutes to clear the error code.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B1386 at home?

- Depending on their skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix OBDII code B1386 at home by following diagnostic procedures and repair guides. However, professional help is recommended for complex issues.

8. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code B1386 in the future?

- Regular maintenance of the oil level monitoring system, including checking the oil level sensor and associated wiring for any signs of wear or damage, can help prevent the recurrence of OBDII code B1386.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code B1386?

- The time required to repair OBDII code B1386 varies depending on the exact cause of the issue, the availability of parts, and the individual's repair skills. Simple fixes may take a few hours, while more complex issues might require professional assistance.

10. Can OBDII code B1386 affect the overall performance of the vehicle?

- While OBDII code B1386 itself may not directly impact the performance of the vehicle, it is essential to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent potential problems with the oil level monitoring system that could affect engine performance in the long run.