Code Definition

B1796 — Lamp Headlamp Low-Beam Circuit Short To Battery

System: Body  |  Type: Manufacturer-Specific  |  Make: Generic

About B1796

B1796 is a manufacturer-specific body diagnostic trouble code. It belongs to the B-prefix family of codes, which covers body, interior, airbag, or comfort-electronics faults.

When B1796 is stored, the module has detected a short-circuit (voltage pulled to ground or to supply) in the monitored circuit; and a signal or supply voltage lower than the expected operating range.

Scanning & clearing: Body (B) codes are often stored in the body control module, airbag module, or climate module. A basic OBD-II tool usually will not read body codes — an enhanced or OEM-level scan tool is typically required.

B1796 is a manufacturer-specific code. The same code string on a different make may have a different meaning. Always confirm the code's definition against the vehicle's service information for the specific make and model under test.

Code Information

The Body Control Module (BCM) monitors the low beam headlamp circuit by checking the voltage state on the controlled side of the headlamp driver when the lamp is commanded off. DTC B1796 sets when the BCM detects battery voltage on the low beam output line at a time when that line should be at 0V or floating, indicating that the wiring or load has shorted to a battery feed somewhere between the BCM driver and the lamp ground. This can damage the BCM internal driver if the short remains unresolved, so the module typically disables the output to protect itself. When this code is set, the affecte...

Join TaT to view the complete code information and diagnostic details.

Quick Facts