AutoCodes – Generic – B2494

B2494 Code - Anti-Theft Horn Output Circuit Short To Battery

Quick Answer

The Body Control Module (BCM) monitors the Anti-Theft Horn. Common causes include Faulty Anti-Theft Horn, Anti-Theft Horn harness is open or shorted, Anti-Theft Horn 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: B2494 indicates Anti-Theft Horn Output Circuit Short To Battery.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Anti-Theft Horn, Anti-Theft Horn harness is open or shorted, Anti-Theft Horn 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 4,908

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 Dec 09, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code B2494 Description

The Body Control Module (BCM) monitors the Anti-Theft Horn. The BCM sets the OBDII code when the Anti-Theft Horn is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code B2494 - Anti-Theft Horn Output Circuit Short To Battery - AutoCodes.com — B2494 Code - Anti-Theft Horn Output Circuit Short To Battery

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B2494?

Faulty Anti-Theft Horn
Anti-Theft Horn harness is open or shorted
Anti-Theft Horn circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B2494?

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 B2494 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 B2494 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B2494 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B2494 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B2494 Buick — Liftgate Handle Switch Malfunction
B2494 Cadillac — Liftgate Handle Switch Malfunction
B2494 Chevrolet — Liftgate Handle Switch Malfunction
B2494 GMC — Liftgate Handle Switch Malfunction

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 B2494 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B2494 - Anti-Theft Horn Output Circuit Short To Battery?

The common symptoms include constant horn sounding, horn not working at all, and the vehicle's anti-theft system being disabled.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B2494?

Possible causes of this code include a short circuit in the anti-theft horn wiring, a faulty horn relay, a problem with the anti-theft control module, or a damaged wiring harness.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code B2494?

Diagnosing the issue involves inspecting the anti-theft horn wiring for any visible damage, testing the horn relay, checking the anti-theft control module for faults, and testing the wiring harness for continuity.

4. Can OBDII code B2494 cause any other electrical issues in the vehicle?

Yes, a short circuit in the anti-theft horn output circuit can potentially cause other electrical issues in the vehicle, such as draining the battery or affecting other components connected to the same circuit.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code B2494 triggered?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code triggered, as the constant horn sounding can be a distraction to the driver and other road users. It is best to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code B2494 - Anti-Theft Horn Output Circuit Short To Battery?

Repairing this code involves fixing the short circuit in the anti-theft horn wiring, replacing the faulty horn relay, repairing or replacing the anti-theft control module, and repairing any damaged wiring harness.

7. Can I reset OBDII code B2494 on my own, or do I need a professional mechanic?

You can attempt to reset the code on your own using an OBDII scanner, but it is important to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring. If you are unsure, it is best to consult a professional mechanic.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B2494?

The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the labor rates in your area. It is best to get a diagnosis from a mechanic to determine the exact cost.

9. Will fixing OBDII code B2494 affect the vehicle's anti-theft system?

Fixing this code should restore the proper functioning of the anti-theft horn and ensure that the anti-theft system operates as intended to protect the vehicle from theft.