AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Incorrect Environmental Identifier Received from Electronic Brake Control Module

Quick Answer

When certain modules are programmed and configured during installation, the module learns a specific environment identifier which is unique to the vehicle. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module 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: B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Incorrect Environmental Identifier Received from Electronic Brake Control Module.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module 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 385

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 Jun 19, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Description

When certain modules are programmed and configured during installation, the module learns a specific environment identifier which is unique to the vehicle. The environment identifier is used to prevent the swapping of control modules between vehicles. The Body Control Module (BCM) is the keeper of the environment identifier. The Instrument Cluster, Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module, Inflatable Restraint Sensing And Diagnostic Module, and Telematics Communication Interface Control Module each learn the environment identifier during their configuration process. During vehicle operation, the BCM sends the immobilizer identifier as a challenge and each module responds to the challenge by sending the environment identifier back to the BCM. If the BCM sends an incorrect immobilizer identifier or a specific number of incorrect environment identifiers are received, vehicle starting is disabled.

OBDII Code B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado - Incorrect Environmental Identifier Received from Electronic Brake Control Module - AutoCodes.com — B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Incorrect Environmental Identifier Received from Electronic Brake Control Module

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

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

How to Fix the DTC B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 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 B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 B3981 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code B3981 mean on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

The B3981 code indicates that the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) has received an incorrect environmental identifier, typically due to a communication error or mismatch in vehicle configuration data.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B3981 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include the illumination of the check engine light, ABS light, or traction control light, along with possible braking system issues or limited functionality of stability control features.

3. What causes the B3981 code to appear?

The most common causes include software or programming errors in the EBCM, a mismatch in module configuration, faulty wiring or connections, or a defective EBCM.

4. Can driving with the B3981 code cause safety issues?

Yes, since it may affect the ABS and traction control systems, driving with this code could compromise vehicle safety, especially in adverse road conditions.

5. How do you diagnose the B3981 code on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis involves scanning the vehicle with an advanced scan tool, checking for related codes, verifying module configurations, inspecting wiring and connections, and ensuring the EBCM software is up to date.

6. Is a software update required to fix the B3981 code?

In some cases, a software update or reprogramming of the EBCM may resolve the issue, especially if there are known updates related to this code.

7. Can a faulty Electronic Brake Control Module cause the B3981 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning EBCM can lead to this code, especially if it fails to correctly process environmental identifier data.

8. How much does it cost to repair the B3981 code on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs vary depending on the cause, but reprogramming or software updates typically cost $100-$200, while EBCM replacement could range from $500 to $1,500.

9. Can a loose or damaged wiring connection trigger the B3981 code?

Yes, damaged, corroded, or loose wiring between the EBCM and other modules can disrupt communication and cause this code.

10. How can I prevent the B3981 code from coming back after repairs?

Ensure all modules are correctly programmed, wiring is properly connected and maintained, and software is updated to the latest version recommended by Chevrolet.