AutoCodes – Buick – B3885 Buick

B3885 Buick Code - Trailer Left Tail Lamp Circuit

Quick Answer

The Trailer Lighting Control Module receives a serial data message from the Body Control Module (BCM) indicating that the vehicle park lamps have been activated. Common causes include Faulty Trailer Left Tail Lamp, Trailer Left Tail Lamp harness is open or shorted, Trailer Left Tail 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
B3885 Buick indicates Trailer Left Tail Lamp Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Trailer Left Tail Lamp, Trailer Left Tail Lamp harness is open or shorted, Trailer Left Tail 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 426
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 23, 2020
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Code B3885 Buick Description

The Trailer Lighting Control Module receives a serial data message from the Body Control Module (BCM) indicating that the vehicle park lamps have been activated. The Trailer Lighting Control Module responds by applying battery voltage to the left and right trailer tail lamp control circuits illuminating the trailer tail lamps. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the Trailer Lighting Control Module detects a short to ground or an open/high resistance in the left trailer tail lamp control circuit.
OBDII Code B3885 Buick - Trailer Left Tail Lamp Circuit - AutoCodes.com
B3885 Buick Code - Trailer Left Tail Lamp Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3885 Buick?

  • Faulty Trailer Left Tail Lamp
  • Trailer Left Tail Lamp harness is open or shorted
  • Trailer Left Tail Lamp circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Trailer Lighting Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B3885 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 B3885 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 B3885 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code B3885 mean on a Buick?

The B3885 code indicates an issue with the Trailer Left Tail Lamp Circuit, suggesting a fault in the wiring, bulb, or related components.

2. What are the symptoms of the B3885 code in a Buick?

Common symptoms include the trailer's left tail lamp not functioning, dim or flickering lights, or a warning light on the dashboard.

3. What causes the B3885 code to appear?

The code is typically caused by a faulty bulb, damaged wiring, corroded connectors, a blown fuse, or a malfunction in the trailer wiring module.

4. How do I diagnose the B3885 code on my Buick?

Check the trailer's left tail lamp for a blown bulb, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and test the fuse and trailer wiring module.

5. Can I still drive with the B3885 code active?

Yes, you can still drive, but the trailer's left tail lamp will not work properly, which may be unsafe or illegal depending on local regulations.

6. How do I fix the B3885 code on a Buick?

Repair or replace any damaged wiring, clean corroded connectors, replace the bulb or fuse, and, if necessary, repair or replace the trailer wiring module.

7. How much does it cost to fix the B3885 code?

The cost varies depending on the issue, ranging from under $20 for a bulb or fuse replacement to $100-$300 for wiring repairs or module replacement.

8. Can a bad ground connection trigger the B3885 code?

Yes, a poor ground connection can disrupt the trailer's left tail lamp circuit and trigger the code.

9. Do I need special tools to fix the B3885 code?

Basic tools like a multimeter for testing voltage, pliers, and screwdrivers may be sufficient, but advanced diagnostics may require a scan tool.

10. Will clearing the code fix the B3885 issue permanently?

No, clearing the code without addressing the root cause will likely result in the code returning. Proper diagnosis and repair are necessary.

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