B1117 Code - Audio Steering Wheel Button Stuck
Quick Answer
Two different steering wheel switch configurations are available, depending on whether the vehicle is equipped with the SYNC system. Common causes include Faulty Audio Steering Wheel Switch, Audio Steering Wheel Switch harness is open or shorted, Audio Steering Wheel Switch circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
- What it means
- B1117 indicates Audio Steering Wheel Button Stuck.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Audio Steering Wheel Switch, Audio Steering Wheel Switch harness is open or shorted, Audio Steering Wheel Switch circuit poor electrical connection.
- Severity
- Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
- Can I drive?
- The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
Code B1117 Description
On vehicles without the SYNC system, all of the steering wheel control switches are wired to the Audio Control Module (ACM). The steering wheel controls are: VOL+, VOL-, SEEK+, SEEK-, and MEDIA. The SEEK+ and SEEK- switches are represented by arrows.
For vehicles equipped with the SYNC system, the steering wheel controls are: VOL+, VOL-, SEEK+, SEEK-, MEDIA, VOICE, PHONE, and OK. The SEEK+ and SEEK- switches are represented by arrows, the VOICE button is represented by an icon of someone speaking, and the PHONE button is represented by an icon of a phone with an up-and-down arrow. The VOICE, PHONE, and OK switches are wired to the accessory protocol interface module (APIM), while the remaining switches are wired to the ACM.
For all switches, a reference voltage is sent from the appropriate module to the steering wheel controls. When a switch is pressed, the voltage is routed through a specific resistor value for each function. The module provides the ground for the reference voltage. The module uses this reference voltage to determine which control input function has been selected.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1117?
- Faulty Audio Steering Wheel Switch
- Audio Steering Wheel Switch harness is open or shorted
- Audio Steering Wheel Switch circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC B1117?
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 B1117 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 B1117 code?
Need more information on how to fix the B1117 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the B1117 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- B1117 Ford — Audio Steering Wheel Button Stuck
- B1117 Lincoln — Audio Steering Wheel Button Stuck
- B1117 Mercury — Audio Steering Wheel Button Stuck
Frequently Asked Questions about B1117 Code
1. What does OBDII code B1117 mean?
Code B1117 indicates that one or more audio control buttons on the steering wheel are stuck or not functioning properly.
2. What are the symptoms of code B1117?
Common symptoms include unresponsive or stuck audio buttons on the steering wheel, erratic audio system behavior, or continuous activation of certain audio functions.
3. What causes the B1117 code to appear?
This code is usually caused by dirt or debris stuck in the buttons, a faulty steering wheel control module, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning clock spring.
4. Can I still drive with a B1117 code?
Yes, the code does not affect drivability, but it may impact your ability to control the audio system via the steering wheel.
5. How do I diagnose the B1117 code?
Start by inspecting the steering wheel buttons for physical damage or debris, check the clock spring for continuity issues, and use a diagnostic scanner to confirm the code.
6. How can I fix the B1117 code?
Cleaning the buttons, repairing or replacing the clock spring, or addressing damaged wiring in the steering wheel control circuit can resolve the issue.
7. Can a software update fix the B1117 code?
In rare cases, a software update for the vehicle's audio or body control module might resolve the issue if the problem is software-related.
8. How much does it cost to fix a B1117 code?
Repair costs vary depending on the issue, ranging from $50 for cleaning or minor repairs to $300–$500 if the clock spring or control module needs replacement.
9. Will disconnecting the battery clear a B1117 code?
Disconnecting the battery may temporarily clear the code, but it will return if the underlying issue is not resolved.
10. Can a stuck button cause other problems besides the B1117 code?
Yes, it can cause the audio system to behave erratically, such as volume changes, unintended track skips, or constant input from the stuck button.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B1117 OBDII Code
Code B1117 comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
