AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B1971 Chevrolet

B1971 Chevrolet Code - Inadvertent Power Fault

Quick Answer

If interior lights are accidentally left on, a Delayed Interior Lighting (DIL) feature provides automatic shutoff. Common causes include Faulty Inadvertent Power Relay, Inadvertent Power Relay harness is open or shorted, Inadvertent Power Relay 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
B1971 Chevrolet indicates Inadvertent Power Fault.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Inadvertent Power Relay, Inadvertent Power Relay harness is open or shorted, Inadvertent Power Relay 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 3,928
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 01, 2019
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Code B1971 Chevrolet Description

If interior lights are accidentally left on, a Delayed Interior Lighting (DIL) feature provides automatic shutoff. The DIL relay is an integral component of the multifunction relay. When the ignition switch is in RUN position, The Body Control Module (BCM) continuously keeps output to DIL relay active. When the ignition switch is turned to OFF position, BCM will deactivate DIL relay output after 10 minutes. The 10-minute time-out period resets anytime BCM wakes up and any of the following states are detected:
- A door is opened or closed, or driver door unlock message is received.
- The trunk is opened or closed.
- Interior lights are turned on. When DIL relay is energized, power is supplied to interior lights and high side of the interior light relay coil.
The BCM continuously monitors output to DIL relay. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1971 will set when output is commanded on or off, and short or open is detected for at least 2 seconds. When DTC B1971 is set, BCM will continue to command the requested state of relay until it is achieved or no longer necessary. DTC B1971 will clear when conditions for fault no longer exist or when scan tool is used. A history DTC will clear after 50 consecutive ignition cycles if conditions for fault no longer exist.
OBDII Code B1971 Chevrolet - Inadvertent Power Fault - AutoCodes.com
B1971 Chevrolet Code - Inadvertent Power Fault

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1971 Chevrolet?

  • Faulty Inadvertent Power Relay
  • Inadvertent Power Relay harness is open or shorted
  • Inadvertent Power Relay circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B1971 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 B1971 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.

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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 B1971 Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1971 mean in a Chevrolet?

The B1971 code indicates an "Inadvertent Power Fault," typically related to a malfunction in the vehicle's interior lighting or power circuits.

2. What are common symptoms of the B1971 code in a Chevrolet?

Symptoms may include interior lights not functioning, lights staying on when they should turn off, or intermittent electrical issues related to the power circuit.

3. What causes the B1971 code in a Chevrolet?

Common causes include a faulty inadvertent power relay, damaged wiring, corroded connectors, or a short circuit in the lighting or power system.

4. Can the B1971 code drain the battery in a Chevrolet?

Yes, if the interior lights stay on due to this fault, it can lead to excessive battery drain.

5. How do you diagnose the B1971 code in a Chevrolet?

Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the inadvertent power relay, checking wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and using a multimeter to test circuit continuity.

6. How can the B1971 code be fixed in a Chevrolet?

Repairs may include replacing the inadvertent power relay, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or resetting the system after repairs.

7. Is it safe to drive with the B1971 code in a Chevrolet?

Yes, it is generally safe to drive, but the issue should be addressed promptly to avoid potential battery drain or further electrical problems.

8. Can a dead battery cause the B1971 code in a Chevrolet?

A dead or weak battery is not a typical cause but may exacerbate symptoms if the electrical system is already compromised.

9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the B1971 code in a Chevrolet?

You may need a multimeter, a diagnostic scan tool, and basic hand tools to inspect and test the electrical components.

10. Can the B1971 code clear itself in a Chevrolet?

The code may clear temporarily if the issue is intermittent, but the underlying problem will need to be resolved to prevent it from returning.

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