AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B1911 Chevrolet

B1911 Chevrolet Code - Generator L Terminal Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1911 indicates a circuit malfunction is preventing the generator from charging. Common causes include Faulty Generator (Alternator), Generator harness is open or shorted, Generator 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
B1911 Chevrolet indicates Generator L Terminal Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Generator (Alternator), Generator harness is open or shorted, Generator 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,155
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 27, 2019
πŸ’¬ Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers β€” it's free!

Code B1911 Chevrolet Description

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1911 indicates a circuit malfunction is preventing the generator from charging. DTC B1911 will set when the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) determines that the circuit is grounded by the generator with the ignition switch in the RUN position and engine speed is greater than 600 RPM. This test is only performed when the ignition switch is in the RUN position, IPC measures engine speed greater than 600 RPM and vehicle diagnostics is not active. When DTC B1911 is set, IPC will display BATTERY NOT CHARGING message and the battery indicator will illuminate.
OBDII Code B1911 Chevrolet - Generator L Terminal Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
B1911 Chevrolet Code - Generator L Terminal Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1911 Chevrolet?

  • Faulty Generator (Alternator)
  • Generator harness is open or shorted
  • Generator circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B1911 Chevrolet?

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 B1911 Chevrolet 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 B1911 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1911 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1911 Chevrolet 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 B1911 Chevrolet Code

1. What does OBDII code B1911 mean on a Chevrolet?

B1911 indicates a "Generator L Terminal Malfunction," which refers to an issue with the communication or functionality of the charging system's L terminal on the alternator.

2. What are common symptoms of the B1911 code in a Chevrolet?

Symptoms may include a charging system warning light, a dead battery, dim or flickering headlights, or issues with vehicle electrical systems.

3. What causes the B1911 code to appear on a Chevrolet?

This code is often caused by problems such as a faulty alternator, damaged L terminal wiring, poor electrical connections, or a malfunctioning voltage regulator.

4. Can a bad alternator trigger the B1911 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning alternator, particularly its internal voltage regulator, can cause the L terminal to stop functioning properly and trigger the B1911 code.

5. How can I diagnose the B1911 code on my Chevrolet?

Start by inspecting the alternator and L terminal wiring for damage or corrosion, check all related connectors, and test the alternator's output with a multimeter.

6. Is it safe to drive with the B1911 code on a Chevrolet?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to battery discharge and potential electrical system failure, leaving you stranded.

7. How do I fix the B1911 code on a Chevrolet?

Repairs may involve replacing the alternator, repairing or replacing damaged L terminal wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or addressing issues with the voltage regulator.

8. Can a weak battery cause the B1911 code in a Chevrolet?

A weak or failing battery can strain the alternator and possibly contribute to the B1911 code, but it is not the primary cause.

9. How much does it cost to repair the B1911 code on a Chevrolet?

The cost depends on the root cause, ranging from $50-$100 for wiring repairs to $300-$600 for a new alternator, including labor.

10. Will clearing the code fix the B1911 issue on a Chevrolet?

Clearing the code may reset the warning temporarily, but the underlying problem must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B1911 Chevrolet OBDII Code

Code B1911 Chevrolet comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play