AutoCodes – Pontiac – B1911 Pontiac

B1911 Pontiac Code - Generator L Terminal Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1911 indicates a circuit malfunction is preventing the generator from charging. Common causes include Faulty Generator (Alternator), Generator harness is open or shorted, Generator 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: B1911 Pontiac indicates Generator L Terminal Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Generator (Alternator), Generator harness is open or shorted, Generator 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 744

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 Jul 27, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1911 Pontiac Description

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1911 indicates a circuit malfunction is preventing the generator from charging. DTC B1911 will set when the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) determines that the circuit is grounded by the generator with the ignition switch in the RUN position and engine speed is greater than 600 RPM. This test is only performed when the ignition switch is in the RUN position, IPC measures engine speed greater than 600 RPM and vehicle diagnostics is not active. When DTC B1911 is set, IPC will display BATTERY NOT CHARGING message and the battery indicator will illuminate.

OBDII Code B1911 Pontiac - Generator L Terminal Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — B1911 Pontiac Code - Generator L Terminal Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1911 Pontiac?

Faulty Generator (Alternator)
Generator harness is open or shorted
Generator circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B1911 Pontiac?

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 B1911 Pontiac 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 B1911 Pontiac Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1911 mean on a Pontiac?

The B1911 code indicates a "Generator L Terminal Malfunction," which means thereâ€™s an issue with the communication or signal between the alternator and the vehicleâ€™s control module.

2. What are the common symptoms of the B1911 code?

Symptoms may include the battery warning light illuminating, poor charging performance, dim headlights, or a dead battery.

3. What causes the B1911 code to appear on a Pontiac?

Common causes include a faulty alternator, damaged L-terminal wiring, corroded connectors, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

4. Can a bad battery cause the B1911 code?

While a weak or dead battery may trigger related charging issues, the B1911 code specifically points to a problem with the alternator's L-terminal communication.

5. How do you diagnose the B1911 code on a Pontiac?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the alternator, checking the L-terminal wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and testing the alternatorâ€™s output to confirm proper operation.

6. Can you drive a Pontiac with the B1911 code?

Driving with the B1911 code is not recommended, as it may lead to battery drain and eventual vehicle shutdown due to inadequate charging.

7. How do you fix the B1911 code on a Pontiac?

Repairs may include replacing the alternator, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming the PCM if needed.

8. How much does it cost to repair the B1911 code?

Repair costs vary but can range from $200 to $500, depending on whether you need a new alternator, wiring repairs, or PCM reprogramming.

9. Can a faulty PCM cause the B1911 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning PCM can cause the B1911 code if it fails to properly communicate with the alternatorâ€™s L-terminal.

10. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the B1911 code?

You may need a multimeter to test the electrical connections, an OBDII scanner to read and clear codes, and basic tools for accessing and inspecting the alternator and wiring.