P1B39 Saturn Code - Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Balance Processor 6 Performance
Quick Answer
The hybrid battery pack contains a total of 32 cell groups in the hybrid/EV battery pack assembly. Common causes include Faulty Battery Energy Control Module, Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted, Battery Energy 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
- P1B39 Saturn indicates Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Balance Processor 6 Performance.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Battery Energy Control Module, Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted, Battery Energy 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.
Code P1B39 Saturn Description
The battery energy control module monitors the voltage of the 32 battery cell groups. A voltage sense circuit is attached to each individual cell group. Each of these circuits terminate at a connector located on the top surface of the battery section. A serviceable auxiliary battery wiring harness connectors the voltage sense circuits to the battery energy control module, located directly above the hybrid battery pack.
To ensure proper battery function and lengthen battery life, the battery energy control module balances the voltage of the cells so that each cells maintains the same voltage level. The battery energy control module uses internal voltage gates to transfer voltage from cells with a higher voltage level to those cells with a lower voltage level. To maintain a similar state of charge on the cell groups, the starter/generator control module monitors the cell voltages and determines which cells need energy removed in order to maintain the cells at a similar state of charge. A resistor wired in parallel with the cell and a transistor switch in series with the resistor internal to the battery energy control module. The starter/generator control module sends a command to the battery energy control module to begin cell balancing.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1B39 Saturn?
- Faulty Battery Energy Control Module
- Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted
- Battery Energy Control Module circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P1B39 Saturn?
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 P1B39 Saturn 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 P1B39 Saturn code?
Need more information on how to fix the P1B39 Saturn code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P1B39 Saturn code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Frequently Asked Questions about P1B39 Saturn Code
1. What does the OBDII code P1B39 mean for a Saturn vehicle?
P1B39 indicates an issue with the Battery Energy Control Module, specifically with the performance of Hybrid Battery Voltage Balance Processor 6.
2. What are the common symptoms of the P1B39 code in a Saturn?
Symptoms may include the check engine light turning on, reduced hybrid system performance, decreased fuel efficiency, or the vehicle failing to enter EV mode.
3. What causes the P1B39 code to appear in a Saturn?
Common causes include a malfunctioning Battery Energy Control Module, imbalanced or faulty hybrid battery cells, damaged wiring, or poor electrical connections.
4. Can I drive my Saturn with the P1B39 code active?
Driving with this code is not recommended, as it may lead to further damage to the hybrid battery system or reduced vehicle performance.
5. How is the P1B39 code diagnosed in a Saturn?
A technician will typically use a scan tool to read the code, check the hybrid battery voltage balance data, inspect wiring and connectors, and test the Battery Energy Control Module.
6. What repairs are commonly needed to fix the P1B39 code?
Repairs may include replacing the defective Battery Energy Control Module, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or replacing faulty hybrid battery cells.
7. How much does it cost to fix the P1B39 code in a Saturn?
The cost varies depending on the root cause but can range from $300 to over $1,000, especially if the hybrid battery or control module requires replacement.
8. Can a weak 12-volt battery cause the P1B39 code on a hybrid Saturn?
While rare, a weak 12-volt battery can potentially contribute to voltage imbalance issues, so it’s worth checking during diagnosis.
9. Is the P1B39 code specific to Saturn hybrid models?
Yes, this code typically applies to Saturn hybrid models equipped with a Battery Energy Control Module, such as the Saturn Vue Hybrid.
10. How can I prevent the P1B39 code from occurring again?
Regular maintenance of the hybrid battery system, ensuring proper wiring connections, and addressing any warning signs promptly can help prevent this code from reappearing.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P1B39 Saturn OBDII Code
Code P1B39 Saturn comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
