AutoCodes – Generic – B196C

B196C Code - Power Liftgate Close Direction Excessive Position Sensor Counts

Quick Answer

The Power Liftgate Module monitors the Power Liftgate Close Direction. Common causes include Binding Liftgate, Faulty Liftgate Drive Unit, Faulty Liftgate Latch. 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: B196C indicates Power Liftgate Close Direction Excessive Position Sensor Counts.
Common causes: Common causes include Binding Liftgate, Faulty Liftgate Drive Unit, Faulty Liftgate Latch.
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 936

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 31, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B196C Description

The Power Liftgate Module monitors the Power Liftgate Close Direction. If the Power Liftgate (PLG) Module detects that the Power Liftgate Drive Unit has generated excessive pulses during a full power cycle, this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set.

OBDII Code B196C - Power Liftgate Close Direction Excessive Position Sensor Counts - AutoCodes.com — B196C Code - Power Liftgate Close Direction Excessive Position Sensor Counts

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B196C?

Binding Liftgate
Faulty Liftgate Drive Unit
Faulty Liftgate Latch
Faulty Power Liftgate Module

How to Fix the DTC B196C?

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 B196C 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 B196C code?

Need more information on how to fix the B196C code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B196C code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B196C Chrysler — Power Liftgate Close Direction Excessive Position Sensor Counts
B196C Dodge — Power Liftgate Close Direction Excessive Position Sensor Counts
B196C Jeep — Power Liftgate Close Direction Excessive Position Sensor Counts
B196C RAM — Power Liftgate Close Direction Excessive Position Sensor Counts

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 B196C Code

1. What does the OBDII code B196C mean?

The code B196C indicates that the power liftgate's position sensor has detected an excessive number of counts in the close direction, suggesting a potential malfunction or misalignment.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B196C?

Symptoms may include the power liftgate not closing completely, reversing direction unexpectedly, making unusual noises, or failing to operate altogether.

3. What causes the B196C code to appear?

The most common causes are a faulty liftgate position sensor, misaligned liftgate components, wiring issues, or obstructions in the liftgate's path.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with the B196C code?

Yes, the vehicle is safe to drive, but the power liftgate may not function properly, causing inconvenience or limited access to the cargo area.

5. How do you diagnose the B196C code?

Diagnosis typically involves scanning for fault codes, inspecting the liftgate position sensor, checking for wiring issues, and ensuring there are no obstructions or mechanical misalignments.

6. Can a software issue cause the B196C code?

Yes, outdated or corrupted liftgate control module software can sometimes trigger this code and may require a software update or reprogramming.

7. How do you fix the B196C code?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty liftgate position sensor, realigning the liftgate, repairing damaged wiring, clearing obstructions, or updating the control module software.

8. How much does it cost to fix the B196C code?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue but typically range from $100 to $500, including parts and labor, for sensor replacement or wiring repairs.

9. Can I reset the B196C code without repairs?

While clearing the code with an OBDII scanner may temporarily remove it, the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

10. Is the B196C code a common problem?

It is not extremely common but can occur in vehicles with power liftgates, especially if the liftgate has experienced physical damage, wear, or alignment issues.