AutoCodesChevrolet – B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Incorrect Environmental Identifier Received from Electronic Brake Control Module

Quick Answer

When certain modules are programmed and configured during installation, the module learns a specific environment identifier which is unique to the vehicle. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module 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
B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Incorrect Environmental Identifier Received from Electronic Brake Control Module.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 314
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 19, 2023
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Code B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Description

When certain modules are programmed and configured during installation, the module learns a specific environment identifier which is unique to the vehicle. The environment identifier is used to prevent the swapping of control modules between vehicles. The Body Control Module (BCM) is the keeper of the environment identifier. The Instrument Cluster, Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module, Inflatable Restraint Sensing And Diagnostic Module, and Telematics Communication Interface Control Module each learn the environment identifier during their configuration process. During vehicle operation, the BCM sends the immobilizer identifier as a challenge and each module responds to the challenge by sending the environment identifier back to the BCM. If the BCM sends an incorrect immobilizer identifier or a specific number of incorrect environment identifiers are received, vehicle starting is disabled.
OBDII Code B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado - Incorrect Environmental Identifier Received from Electronic Brake Control Module - AutoCodes.com
B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Incorrect Environmental Identifier Received from Electronic Brake Control Module

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

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

How to Fix the DTC B3981 2014 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 B3981 2014 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 B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code?

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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 B3981 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code B3981 mean on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

B3981 indicates that the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) has received an incorrect environmental identifier, which is a mismatch in communication data.

2. What are common symptoms of code B3981 in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include the ABS warning light being illuminated, reduced functionality of the ABS system, and potential loss of traction control features.

3. What causes code B3981 to appear in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

This code is typically caused by a software mismatch, incorrect module programming, or a communication error between the EBCM and other control modules.

4. Can a faulty Electronic Brake Control Module cause B3981?

Yes, a malfunctioning or improperly programmed EBCM can cause code B3981 to appear.

5. How can code B3981 be diagnosed in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis involves using a scan tool to confirm the code, checking for additional trouble codes, inspecting wiring and connectors to the EBCM, and verifying module programming.

6. Is it safe to drive a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado with code B3981?

While the truck may still be drivable, safety features like ABS and traction control may be compromised, so it’s recommended to address the issue promptly.

7. How is code B3981 fixed on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include reprogramming or updating the EBCM software, resolving communication errors, or replacing the EBCM if necessary.

8. Can a dead battery cause code B3981 in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

A dead or low battery can potentially cause communication errors between modules, which may trigger this code, but it’s not a common cause.

9. How much does it cost to fix code B3981 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs can vary depending on the issue but typically range from $150 to $600, depending on whether reprogramming or module replacement is required.

10. Can clearing the code B3981 resolve the issue on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Clearing the code may temporarily remove it, but unless the underlying issue is addressed, the code is likely to return.

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