AutoCodesChevrolet – B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Left Rear Window Switch

Quick Answer

The driver and passenger window motors supply 12 V signal circuits to their respective window switches, when a window switch has been activated, a switch closes providing a ground to the appropriate signal circuit causing the voltage to drop to 0 V. Common causes include Faulty Left Rear Window Switch, Left Rear Window Switch harness is open or shorted, Left Rear Window Switch 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
B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Left Rear Window Switch.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Left Rear Window Switch, Left Rear Window Switch harness is open or shorted, Left Rear Window Switch 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 188
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 11, 2023
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Code B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The driver and passenger window motors supply 12 V signal circuits to their respective window switches, when a window switch has been activated, a switch closes providing a ground to the appropriate signal circuit causing the voltage to drop to 0 V. The window motor will detect the voltage drop in the signal circuit and will command the window to move in the desired direction.
The driver window master control switch also contains control switches for the passenger, left rear and right rear window functions. When a window switch is pressed, a serial data message is sent to the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM examines the request and checks for messages from other power window motors that may prohibit window movement. If no prohibitive messages have been received, the BCM will send a serial data message to the passenger window motor or to the appropriate rear window switch which will perform the command as requested.
OBDII Code B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Left Rear Window Switch - AutoCodes.com
B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Left Rear Window Switch

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • Faulty Left Rear Window Switch
  • Left Rear Window Switch harness is open or shorted
  • Left Rear Window Switch circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)

How to Fix the DTC B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 B318A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code B318A mean for a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

It indicates an issue with the Left Rear Window Switch, specifically a malfunction in its operation or communication.

2. What are common symptoms of code B318A in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms include the left rear window not responding to commands, slow window movement, or erratic operation.

3. What causes the B318A code to appear?

The code can be triggered by a faulty left rear window switch, damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, or issues with the Body Control Module (BCM).

4. How can I diagnose the B318A code on my Silverado?

Check the functionality of the left rear window switch, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, and use a scan tool to confirm the code and monitor BCM signals.

5. Can I still drive my Silverado with code B318A?

Yes, the code does not affect drivability, but it may limit window functionality and indicate an underlying electrical issue.

6. What steps can I take to fix the B318A code?

Replace the left rear window switch if it’s faulty, repair damaged wiring, clean corroded connectors, and update or reprogram the BCM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair the B318A code?

Repair costs vary but generally range from $50 to $150 for a new switch, plus labor charges if handled by a professional.

8. Can I clear the B318A code without fixing the problem?

You can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, but it will likely return unless the root cause is addressed.

9. Does the B318A code affect other vehicle systems?

Typically, no, but prolonged electrical issues could potentially lead to further BCM-related malfunctions.

10. Is the B318A code common in the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

It’s not a widespread issue but can occur due to wear and tear or electrical faults over time.

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