AutoCodes – Generic – B3517

B3517 Code - Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The window switch or window switch circuits that generate this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) are built-in parts of the Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA). Common causes include Faulty Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA), Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA) harness is open or shorted, Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA) 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: B3517 indicates Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA), Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA) harness is open or shorted, Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA) 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 573

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 Mar 06, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B3517 Description

The window switch or window switch circuits that generate this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) are built-in parts of the Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA). There are no external circuits. The DDSA internally supplies power and ground to the contacts of each of the integral window switches. When one of the switches is operated, the switch contacts close, providing the DDSA with a specific window switch signal. The DDSA processes this signal, assigns a digital message to it, and sends the message to the appropriate Driver Door Module (DDM), Passenger Front Door Module (PDM), Left Rear Door Module (LRDM), or Right Rear Door Module (RRDM), via the class 2 serial data circuit. The door module, upon receiving the message, examines other relevant information available on the class 2 serial data line in order to determine if conditions are correct for window operation to occur. If conditions are correct, the door module applies power and ground to the associated window motor and circuits in order to move the window. If the DDSA determines that one of its built in window switches is closed for more than 15 continuous seconds, it sets the DTC.

OBDII Code B3517 - Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — B3517 Code - Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3517?

Faulty Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA)
Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA) harness is open or shorted
Driver Door Switch Assembly (DDSA) circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Left Rear Door Module (LRDM)
Faulty Driver Door Module (DDM)

How to Fix the DTC B3517?

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 B3517 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 B3517 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B3517 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B3517 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B3517 Buick — Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit Low
B3517 Cadillac — Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit Low
B3517 Chevrolet — Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit Low
B3517 GMC — Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit Low

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 B3517 Code

1. What does the OBDII code B3517 mean?

B3517 indicates a low voltage issue in the Left Rear Window Express Down Circuit, which controls the automatic "express down" function for the left rear window.

2. What are common symptoms of the B3517 code?

Symptoms include the left rear window not responding to the express down feature, slow window operation, or the window not moving at all.

3. What causes the B3517 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty window motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunctioning window switch.

4. Can I still use the left rear window if the B3517 code is present?

In some cases, the window may still operate manually, but the express down feature will likely not function.

5. How do I diagnose the B3517 code?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Then test the window switch and motor for proper operation using a multimeter.

6. Can the B3517 code drain my car battery?

If the circuit is shorted or drawing excessive power, it could potentially lead to battery drain over time.

7. How do I fix the B3517 code?

Repairs may include replacing the window motor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or replacing a faulty window switch.

8. How much does it cost to repair the B3517 code?

Costs vary depending on the issue, but replacing a window motor or switch can range from $100 to $300, plus labor if done by a professional.

9. Can I clear the B3517 code without fixing the issue?

Clearing the code with a scanner will not fix the underlying problem, and the code is likely to return until the issue is resolved.

10. Is it safe to drive with the B3517 code?

Yes, it is generally safe to drive with this code, but the left rear window functionality may be limited or non-operational.

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