AutoCodes – RAM – B17C5 RAM

B17C5 RAM Code - Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp Control Circuit Short To Battery

Quick Answer

Four relays are used to provide voltage to the Trailer Tow connector. Common causes include Faulty Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp, Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp harness is open or shorted, Trailer Tow Reverse 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: B17C5 RAM indicates Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp Control Circuit Short To Battery.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp, Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp harness is open or shorted, Trailer Tow Reverse 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 535

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 Jul 01, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B17C5 RAM Description

Four relays are used to provide voltage to the Trailer Tow connector. The trailer tow relays are used to switch fused battery voltage directly to the Trailer Tow connector when requested. The trailer tow relays are activated through a ground path provided by the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM sets the OBDII code when it detects a short to voltage on the Trailer Reverse Lamp Control circuit.

OBDII Code B17C5 RAM - Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp Control Circuit Short To Battery - AutoCodes.com — B17C5 RAM Code - Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp Control Circuit Short To Battery

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B17C5 RAM?

Faulty Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp
Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp harness is open or shorted
Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)

How to Fix the DTC B17C5 RAM?

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 B17C5 RAM 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 B17C5 RAM Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B17C5 RAM?

The common symptoms of code B17C5 RAM include the reverse lamps staying on continuously or not functioning at all when the trailer tow feature is activated.

2. What can cause the Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp Control Circuit Short To Battery fault?

The B17C5 RAM code is typically triggered by a short circuit in the wiring or connectors related to the reverse lamp control circuit for the trailer tow feature.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of the Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp Control Circuit Short To Battery fault?

To diagnose the B17C5 RAM code, you will need to inspect the wiring harness, connectors, and components related to the reverse lamp control circuit for any signs of damage, corrosion, or shorts.

4. Is it safe to continue driving with the B17C5 RAM fault code present?

It is not recommended to drive with the B17C5 RAM code active, as it can affect the proper functioning of the reverse lamps when towing a trailer, compromising safety and visibility.

5. Can I repair the B17C5 RAM code issue myself?

If you have experience with automotive electrical systems, you may attempt to repair the B17C5 RAM fault by identifying and fixing the short circuit in the trailer tow reverse lamp control circuit.

6. Are there any specific repair tips for fixing the B17C5 RAM fault?

When repairing the B17C5 RAM fault, pay close attention to the wiring near the trailer tow connector and inspect for any pinched or damaged wires that may be causing the short circuit.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code B17C5 RAM make the issue go away permanently?

Simply resetting the B17C5 RAM code without addressing the underlying short circuit issue will likely result in the fault code reoccurring once the system detects the problem again.

8. How can I prevent the Trailer Tow Reverse Lamp Control Circuit Short To Battery fault from happening again?

To prevent the B17C5 RAM code from reoccurring, ensure proper installation and maintenance of the trailer tow wiring harness, connectors, and components to avoid any shorts or damage.

9. Can extreme weather conditions cause the B17C5 RAM fault code to trigger?

Extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow can potentially contribute to the short circuit issue that triggers the B17C5 RAM code, especially if the wiring and connectors are exposed to the elements.

10. Is professional help recommended for diagnosing and repairing the B17C5 RAM fault?

If you are unsure about diagnosing or repairing the B17C5 RAM fault yourself, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a qualified automotive technician who has experience with electrical system troubleshooting and repair.