AutoCodes – Buick – B3951 Buick

B3951 Buick Code - Right Rear Turn Signal Circuit

Quick Answer

Ground is applied at all times to the turn signal/multifunction switch. Common causes include Faulty Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp, Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp harness is open or shorted, Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp 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: B3951 Buick indicates Right Rear Turn Signal Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp, Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp harness is open or shorted, Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp 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 849

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Basic DIY (1 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 17, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B3951 Buick Description

Ground is applied at all times to the turn signal/multifunction switch. The turn signal lamps may only be activated with the ignition switch in the ON or START positions. When the turn signal/multifunction switch is placed in either the TURN RIGHT or TURN LEFT position, ground is applied to the Body Control Module (BCM) through either the right turn or left turn signal switch signal circuit. The BCM responds to the turn signal switch input by applying a pulsating voltage to the front and rear turn signal lamps through there respective control circuits. When a turn signal request is received by the BCM, a serial data message is sent to the instrument cluster requesting the respective turn signal indicator be pulsed ON and OFF. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the BCM detects a short to voltage, short to ground, or an open/high resistance in the right rear turn signal control circuit.

OBDII Code B3951 Buick - Right Rear Turn Signal Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B3951 Buick Code - Right Rear Turn Signal Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3951 Buick?

Faulty Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp
Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp harness is open or shorted
Right Rear Turn Signal Lamp circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B3951 Buick?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B3951:01 Right Rear Turn Signal Circuit Short to Battery
B3951:02 Right Rear Turn Signal Circuit Short to Ground
B3951:04 Right Rear Turn Signal Circuit Open

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B3951 Buick 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 B3951 Buick Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B3951 in a Buick related to the right rear turn signal circuit?

The common symptoms include the right rear turn signal not functioning, fast blinking of the turn signal indicator on the dashboard, or a warning message displayed on the instrument cluster.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code B3951 in a Buick indicating a problem with the right rear turn signal circuit?

Possible causes include a faulty right rear turn signal bulb, a damaged wiring harness, a defective turn signal relay, or a problem with the body control module.

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code B3951 in my Buick's right rear turn signal circuit?

You can start by visually inspecting the right rear turn signal bulb and its socket for any damage. Check the wiring leading to the turn signal for any breaks or cuts. Using a multimeter, test for continuity in the wiring and check the turn signal relay for proper functioning.

4. Can I repair OBDII code B3951 related to the right rear turn signal circuit in my Buick myself?

If you have experience with automotive electrical systems, you may be able to repair the issue yourself by replacing the faulty turn signal bulb, repairing the damaged wiring, or replacing the defective turn signal relay. However, if you are uncertain, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.

5. Are there any safety concerns associated with OBDII code B3951 Buick indicating a problem with the right rear turn signal circuit?

Yes, driving with a malfunctioning right rear turn signal can pose a safety hazard as it reduces the visibility of your intentions to other drivers on the road. It's important to address the issue promptly to ensure safe driving conditions.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B3951 in a Buick related to the right rear turn signal circuit?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the cause of the issue and whether you choose to do the repair yourself or take it to a mechanic. Replacing a turn signal bulb may cost around $10-$20, while more complex repairs involving the wiring or relay can cost upwards of $100-$200.

7. Can OBDII code B3951 in a Buick indicating a problem with the right rear turn signal circuit cause other electrical issues in the vehicle?

While the code specifically relates to the right rear turn signal circuit, electrical issues in one part of the vehicle can sometimes lead to issues in other systems. It's advisable to address the code promptly to prevent potential cascading electrical problems.

8. What steps should I take if OBDII code B3951 Buick related to the right rear turn signal circuit keeps recurring after repairs?

If the code keeps coming back after repairs, it may indicate an underlying issue that was not properly addressed initially. Revisit the diagnostic process, double-check the repairs made, and consider seeking assistance from a professional to ensure the problem is fully resolved.

9. Is it safe to drive my Buick with OBDII code B3951 indicating a problem with the right rear turn signal circuit?

While driving with a malfunctioning turn signal is not ideal, it is generally safe to drive your Buick with this issue as long as you use hand signals to indicate turns or lane changes. However, it's recommended to get the problem fixed as soon as possible for safety and legal reasons.

10. Will resetting the OBDII system clear the B3951 code related to the right rear turn signal circuit in my Buick?

Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing the code is not resolved, it is likely to reappear. It's crucial to diagnose and address the root cause of the problem to prevent the code from coming back.