Code Definition

B16C3 (15) — Ambient Cabin Light Dimmer Switch Circuit Short to Battery or Open

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

About B16C3

B16C3 is a manufacturer-specific body diagnostic trouble code recorded for Dodge vehicles. It belongs to the B-prefix family of codes, which covers body, interior, airbag, or comfort-electronics faults.

When B16C3 is stored, the module has detected an open (broken or disconnected) electrical path in the monitored circuit; and a short-circuit (voltage pulled to ground or to supply) in the monitored circuit.

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.

B16C3 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 ambient and footwell illumination dimmer (rheostat) signal, which is a variable voltage input derived from a reference supply and ground. DTC B16C3 is set when, with the ignition on, the BCM sees the dimmer signal stuck at a high level near battery or reference voltage for a calibrated period of time, indicating either a short to battery on the signal circuit or an open circuit condition in the switch or its wiring that causes the input to float high. The dimmer rheostat is typically integrated into the headlamp switch assembly and allows the driver t...

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