AutoCodesBuick – B3420 Buick

B3420 Buick Code - Automatic Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor Signal

Quick Answer

The front and rear suspension position sensors provide the headlamp control module with front and rear suspension position information. Common causes include Faulty Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor, Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor harness is open or shorted, Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor 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
B3420 Buick indicates Automatic Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor Signal.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor, Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor harness is open or shorted, Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor 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 663
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 08, 2020
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Code B3420 Buick Description

The front and rear suspension position sensors provide the headlamp control module with front and rear suspension position information. Each sensor receives a 5 V reference, signal, and low reference circuits from the headlamp control module. The sensors are connected to the control arms at the front and rear suspension. As the vehicle travels, the suspension compresses and rebounds moving the suspension position sensor arms. This causes the signal output of the sensors to change. The headlamp control module compares the information from the front and rear suspension position sensors and adjusts the headlamp leveling as needed. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when the headlamp control module detects no signal and low voltage on the sensor signal line.
OBDII Code B3420 Buick - Automatic Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor Signal - AutoCodes.com
B3420 Buick Code - Automatic Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor Signal

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3420 Buick?

  • Faulty Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor
  • Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Headlamp Leveling Control Module Rear Axle Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Headlamp Leveling Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B3420 Buick?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B3420 Buick 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 B3420 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code B3420 mean for a Buick?

The B3420 code indicates an issue with the Automatic Headlamp Leveling Control Module, specifically a problem with the rear axle sensor signal.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B3420?

Symptoms may include headlamps not leveling properly, uneven light beam patterns, or a dashboard warning light.

3. What causes the B3420 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty rear axle sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or a malfunctioning headlamp leveling control module.

4. How do I diagnose the B3420 code?

Start by inspecting the rear axle sensor, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a scan tool to monitor the sensor signal and check for additional codes.

5. Can I drive with the B3420 code active?

Yes, but your headlights may not level correctly, which could reduce visibility and pose a safety hazard, especially at night or on uneven terrain.

6. How is the B3420 code fixed?

Repairs may involve replacing the rear axle sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or replacing the headlamp leveling control module if it’s defective.

7. How much does it cost to repair the B3420 code?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the issue is with the sensor, wiring, or control module.

8. Can I reset the B3420 code without repairs?

You can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, but if the underlying issue isn’t resolved, the code will likely return.

9. What tools are needed to fix the B3420 code?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner, multimeter for checking wiring, and basic hand tools for sensor/module replacement.

10. Is the B3420 code specific to Buick vehicles?

While this code can appear on other vehicles, it is specific to Buick models equipped with Automatic Headlamp Leveling systems.

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