AutoCodesGeneric – B2520

B2520 Code - High Mount Stop Lamp Circuit Short To Battery

Quick Answer

The Body Control Module (BCM) monitors the High Mount Stop Lamp. Common causes include Faulty High Mount Stop Lamp, High Mount Stop Lamp harness is open or shorted, High Mount Stop 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
B2520 indicates High Mount Stop Lamp Circuit Short To Battery.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty High Mount Stop Lamp, High Mount Stop Lamp harness is open or shorted, High Mount Stop 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 8,640
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Dec 17, 2019
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Code B2520 Description

The Body Control Module (BCM) monitors the High Mount Stop Lamp. The BCM sets the OBDII code when the High Mount Stop Lamp is not to factory specifications.
OBDII Code B2520 - High Mount Stop Lamp Circuit Short To Battery - AutoCodes.com
B2520 Code - High Mount Stop Lamp Circuit Short To Battery

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B2520?

  • Faulty High Mount Stop Lamp
  • High Mount Stop Lamp harness is open or shorted
  • High Mount Stop Lamp circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)

How to Fix the DTC B2520?

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 B2520 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 B2520 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B2520 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B2520 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

  • B2520 Chrysler — Convertible Top Header Latch Control Circuit Open Or Hardware Thermo Protection Active
  • B2520 Dodge — Convertible Top Header Latch Control Circuit Open Or Hardware Thermo Protection Active
  • B2520 Lexus — Roof Lock Switch Malfunction
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 B2520 Code

1. What does OBDII code B2520 mean?

B2520 indicates a short circuit to the battery in the high mount stop lamp circuit, causing it to receive power when it shouldn't.

2. What are the symptoms of code B2520?

Common symptoms include the high mount stop lamp staying on constantly, not illuminating at all, or triggering a warning light on the dashboard.

3. What causes code B2520?

This code is often caused by damaged wiring, a faulty high mount stop lamp, or a short circuit due to corrosion or pinched wires.

4. Can I drive with a B2520 code?

While it’s usually safe to drive, a constantly illuminated or non-functional brake light can be a safety hazard and may lead to traffic violations.

5. How do you diagnose a B2520 code?

Use a multimeter to check for shorts in the wiring, inspect the high mount stop lamp for damage, and look for signs of corrosion or melted insulation.

6. How do you fix a B2520 code?

Repairs typically involve replacing damaged wires, fixing corroded connections, or replacing the high mount stop lamp if it’s defective.

7. Can a blown fuse cause a B2520 code?

While a blown fuse might not directly trigger this code, it could be a sign of an electrical short that needs investigation.

8. How much does it cost to repair a B2520 code?

Repair costs vary, but fixing damaged wiring or replacing a high mount stop lamp usually ranges from $50 to $200, depending on labor and parts.

9. Will clearing the code fix the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will only reset the warning temporarily, and the code will likely return.

10. Can a faulty brake pedal switch cause a B2520 code?

A faulty brake pedal switch is unlikely to cause this specific code but should still be inspected if other brake light issues are present.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B2520 OBDII Code

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