AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B1973 Chevrolet

B1973 Chevrolet Code - High Power Control Fault

Quick Answer

Battery guard relay supplies power to modules during controlled power usage. Common causes include Faulty Body Control Module (BCM), Body Control Module (BCM) harness is open or shorted, Body Control Module (BCM) 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: B1973 Chevrolet indicates High Power Control Fault.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Body Control Module (BCM), Body Control Module (BCM) harness is open or shorted, Body Control Module (BCM) 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 688

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 Aug 01, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1973 Chevrolet Description

Battery guard relay supplies power to modules during controlled power usage. For 15 minutes after the ignition is turned to the LOCK position and Body Control Module (BCM) is awake, the battery guard relay output coil is grounded at the terminal of BCM. After 15 minutes, low power driver output is turned on.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1973 will set when BCM detects a short to battery voltage in the battery guard relay output circuit for more than 2 seconds. When DTC B1973 is set, BCM will turn low power control output off if ignition is in LOCK position. DTC B1973 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 B1973 Chevrolet - High Power Control Fault - AutoCodes.com — B1973 Chevrolet Code - High Power Control Fault

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1973 Chevrolet?

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

How to Fix the DTC B1973 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 B1973 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 B1973 Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1973 mean on a Chevrolet?

Code B1973 indicates a "High Power Control Fault," which typically points to an issue with a high-power control circuit or component in the vehicle, such as a relay or actuator.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B1973 in a Chevrolet?

Common symptoms include malfunctioning electrical components like headlights, power windows, or other high-power accessories, and possible warning lights on the dashboard.

3. What causes the B1973 fault code in a Chevrolet?

The code is usually caused by a faulty relay, damaged wiring, corroded connectors, or a failure in the control module responsible for managing high-power circuits.

4. Can I drive my Chevrolet with the B1973 fault code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, the affected high-power components may not function properly and could compromise safety or convenience. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. How do I diagnose the B1973 code on my Chevrolet?

Start by inspecting the affected circuit's wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check for proper voltage and continuity in the high-power control circuit.

6. What tools are needed to troubleshoot a B1973 code?

You'll need a diagnostic scanner capable of reading manufacturer-specific codes, a multimeter for electrical testing, and possibly a wiring diagram for your vehicle.

7. How can I fix the B1973 fault code on a Chevrolet?

Repairs may involve replacing a damaged relay, repairing or replacing faulty wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing a malfunctioning control module.

8. Does clearing the B1973 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code will erase it temporarily, but if the underlying issue is not resolved, the code will reappear when the fault is detected again.

9. How much does it cost to repair a B1973 code on a Chevrolet?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the root cause. Simple fixes like replacing a relay may cost $50-$100, while more complex issues like module replacement could cost several hundred dollars.

10. Can a B1973 code be caused by a dead battery?

A weak or dead battery might contribute to triggering this code if it causes voltage irregularities in the high-power control circuit. Ensure the battery and charging system are in good condition.