AutoCodes – Pontiac – B1973 Pontiac

B1973 Pontiac Code - High Power Control Fault

Quick Answer

Battery guard relay supplies power to modules during controlled power usage. Common causes include Faulty Body Control Module (BCM), Body Control Module (BCM) harness is open or shorted, Body Control Module (BCM) 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: B1973 Pontiac indicates High Power Control Fault.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Body Control Module (BCM), Body Control Module (BCM) harness is open or shorted, Body Control Module (BCM) 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 558

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 Aug 01, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1973 Pontiac Description

Battery guard relay supplies power to modules during controlled power usage. For 15 minutes after the ignition is turned to the LOCK position and Body Control Module (BCM) is awake, the battery guard relay output coil is grounded at the terminal of BCM. After 15 minutes, low power driver output is turned on.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1973 will set when BCM detects a short to battery voltage in the battery guard relay output circuit for more than 2 seconds. When DTC B1973 is set, BCM will turn low power control output off if ignition is in LOCK position. DTC B1973 will clear when conditions for fault no longer exist or when scan tool is used. A history DTC will clear after 50 consecutive ignition cycles if conditions for fault no longer exist.

OBDII Code B1973 Pontiac - High Power Control Fault - AutoCodes.com — B1973 Pontiac Code - High Power Control Fault

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1973 Pontiac?

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

How to Fix the DTC B1973 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 B1973 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 B1973 Pontiac Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1973 mean for a Pontiac?

Code B1973 indicates a High Power Control Fault, which typically relates to issues with components controlled by high-current circuits, such as power windows or seat motors.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B1973 in a Pontiac?

Symptoms may include inoperative power accessories, such as power windows, power seats, or mirrors, and possible intermittent functionality of these components.

3. What causes the B1973 code to appear in a Pontiac?

Common causes include a short circuit, open wiring, a faulty high-power control module, or a malfunctioning component drawing excessive current.

4. How is the B1973 code diagnosed in a Pontiac?

A technician will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the affected circuit for wiring damage, and test the related components for proper operation and current draw.

5. Can a blown fuse cause the B1973 code in a Pontiac?

Yes, a blown fuse in the high-power circuit can trigger the code. It is essential to identify and fix the underlying issue causing the fuse to blow.

6. How do you fix the B1973 code on a Pontiac?

Repairs might involve replacing damaged wiring, repairing or replacing the faulty high-power device, or replacing a malfunctioning high-power control module.

7. Is the B1973 code serious for a Pontiac?

While it may not affect engine performance, it can impair the functionality of power accessories, which could be inconvenient or impact safety if critical systems like power windows are affected.

8. Can I drive my Pontiac with the B1973 code present?

Yes, you can typically drive the vehicle, but the affected power accessory may not function properly. Itâ€™s best to address the issue promptly to avoid further electrical problems.

9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the B1973 code on a Pontiac?

You'll need a diagnostic scan tool, a multimeter to check for voltage and continuity, and possibly a wiring diagram for the high-power circuit.

10. How much does it cost to repair the B1973 code in a Pontiac?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the root cause, ranging from $50-$100 for minor wiring repairs to $300 or more if a high-power control module or component needs replacement.