AutoCodes – Generic – B1516

B1516 Code - Battery Current Sensor

Quick Answer

The Battery Current Sensor is a 3-wire hall effect current sensor. Common causes include Faulty Battery Current Sensor, Battery Current Sensor harness is open or shorted, Battery Current Sensor 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: B1516 indicates Battery Current Sensor.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Battery Current Sensor, Battery Current Sensor harness is open or shorted, Battery Current Sensor 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 15,609

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 Apr 20, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1516 Description

The Battery Current Sensor is a 3-wire hall effect current sensor. The Body Control Module (BCM) supplies 5 V and ground to the battery current sensor. The battery current sensor measures the amount of current flowing to or from the battery, and supplies a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal to the BCM. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the BCM detects a fault with the Battery Current Sensor.

OBDII Code B1516 - Battery Current Sensor - AutoCodes.com — B1516 Code - Battery Current Sensor

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1516?

Faulty Battery Current Sensor
Battery Current Sensor harness is open or shorted
Battery Current Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)

How to Fix the DTC B1516?

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

B1516:08 Battery Current Sensor Signal Invalid
B1516:66 Battery Current Sensor Incorrect Mounting

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1516 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 B1516 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1516 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1516 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1516 Buick — Battery Current Sensor
B1516 Cadillac — Battery Current Sensor
B1516 Chevrolet — Battery Current Sensor
B1516 GMC — Battery Current Sensor
B1516 Hyundai — Seat Belt Buckle Switch Passenger Defect
B1516 KIA — Seat Belt Buckle Switch Passenger Defect

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 B1516 Code

1. What does OBDII code B1516 mean?

Code B1516 indicates an issue with the battery current sensor, which measures the current flowing to and from the vehicleâ€™s battery to help regulate charging and electrical systems.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B1516?

Symptoms may include dim headlights, erratic battery charging, a malfunctioning alternator, or the battery warning light illuminating on the dashboard.

3. What causes code B1516 to be triggered?

Common causes include a faulty battery current sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, corrosion at the sensor terminals, or an issue with the vehicle's charging system.

4. Can I drive my car with a B1516 code?

While you may still be able to drive, ignoring this code can lead to battery overcharging or undercharging, potentially causing electrical failures or damage to the battery over time.

5. How do I diagnose a B1516 code?

Start by visually inspecting the battery current sensor, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to test the sensor's functionality and check for proper voltage.

6. How can I fix the B1516 code?

Repair or replace the battery current sensor, clean any corrosion from the terminals, and ensure all wiring connections are secure. If needed, recalibrate the sensor using a scan tool.

7. How much does it cost to repair a B1516 code?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the sensor needs replacement or if additional repairs to wiring are required.

8. Can a bad battery cause the B1516 code?

Yes, a failing or poorly charged battery can contribute to this code by providing inconsistent current readings to the battery current sensor.

9. Do I need to reset the B1516 code after repairs?

Yes, after completing repairs, use an OBDII scanner to clear the code and verify that it does not return during a test drive.

10. Is the battery current sensor covered under warranty?

It depends on your vehicle's warranty terms. Some manufacturers may cover this component under the powertrain or electrical system warranty. Check with your dealer for details.