B1692 — Autolamp Delay Circuit Short To Ground

What are the symptoms of B1692?

Drivers most often notice: no impact on engine operation in most cases, the affected function (locks, windows, lighting, wipers) works intermittently or not at all, warning light on the dashboard.

How much does it cost to fix B1692?

Repair wiring or connectors — $80–$250; BCM repair or replacement — $300–$900; Replace the switch or actuator — $120–$450. Exact cost depends on the root cause, your vehicle and local labor rates — a proper diagnosis is the cheapest first step.

Is it safe to drive with B1692?

Usually safe to drive — body codes rarely affect drivability. Exceptions: exterior lighting and wipers in bad weather, and central locking faults that can leave the car unsecured.

What is the most common cause of B1692?

The most common causes are: damaged wiring in door jambs or wet areas, body control module (BCM) fault, corroded or loose connectors.

How do I diagnose B1692 myself?

Start with a scan: confirm B1692, save the freeze frame and note any companion codes. Then inspect the wiring and connectors related to the body electrical system, and verify the suspect component against live data before buying parts.

The autolamp delay feature keeps your headlights glowing for a few seconds after you exit the vehicle, illuminating your path to the door. When this circuit develops a short to ground, the body control module logs trouble code B1692. This code sits in the body electrical category, meaning it concerns comfort and convenience systems rather than the engine or drivetrain.

The body control module continuously monitors voltage levels throughout the autolamp delay wiring and its associated switches. When something pulls that circuit to ground unexpectedly, the module detects the abnormal reading and confirms the fault over one or two consecutive drive cycles before storing B1692. The freeze frame snapshot captured alongside the code records engine RPM, load, coolant temperature, and vehicle speed the instant the problem occurred — details that tell you whether the fault happened during cold startup or highway cruising.

Symptoms of B1692

• No effect on engine performance or fuel economy
• Autolamp delay function fails to activate or shuts off prematurely
• Affected lighting circuits operate erratically or stay dark
• Body system warning light remains illuminated on the instrument cluster
• Intermittent operation of related switches or controls

Common Causes of B1692

• Broken or chafed wiring in areas where the harness flexes, particularly door jambs and tailgate hinges
• Corrosion buildup at electrical connectors from moisture exposure
• Failed autolamp relay or switch component
• Body control module internal circuitry fault
• Blown fuse feeding the autolamp circuit
• Loose or unplugged connectors at the switch or BCM

Diagnosing B1692

Start by connecting a scan tool and retrieving B1692 along with any other stored codes. Freeze frame data shows the exact operating conditions when the module first flagged the fault — use that information to reproduce the scenario during your road test. Many manufacturers publish TSBs for body electrical codes; search your make and model's technical service bulletins on nhtsa.gov or the manufacturer's website before beginning physical inspection.

Next, perform a thorough visual inspection of the autolamp circuit harness. Focus on areas where wires bend repeatedly: door opening edges, trunk or hatch hinges, and anywhere the wiring passes through metal passages. Look for cracked insulation, exposed copper strands, green corrosion deposits, or connectors that have pushed apart slightly. Wiggle the harness gently while monitoring live data from the switch and motor inputs — if the values jump or flicker, you've likely found a broken strand or bad connection.

Remove affected connectors and check the pins for corrosion or bending. Clean corroded contacts with electrical contact cleaner and a soft brush, then apply dielectric grease before reconnecting. After clearing the code, complete a full drive cycle that mimics the conditions from the freeze frame data. If B1692 does not return, the issue was likely a one-time moisture intrusion or connector seating problem.

Repair Options and Costs

Wiring issues account for the majority of B1692 failures. Repairing frayed wires, replacing damaged connectors, or soldering broken strands typically runs $80–$250 for parts and labor at an independent shop. BCM problems are less frequent but more expensive. Depending on whether you source a rebuilt unit or a new module programmed for your vehicle, expect to pay $300–$900 including installation. Switch or actuator replacement generally falls between $120–$450, depending on the component and labor time required for your specific model.

Total Repair Cost

Overall, fixing B1692 typically costs between $80 and $900 depending on the root cause. The cheapest fixes involve cleaning connectors and repairing broken wires, while full BCM replacement sits at the high end. Confirming the actual failure point before purchasing any parts prevents spending $900 on a new module when the problem was simply a corroded connector in the door jamb.

Driving Safety Assessment

This code presents minimal risk to vehicle operation. B1692 affects body electrical systems only, so the engine, transmission, brakes, and steering remain fully functional. You can continue driving normally. The main safety consideration involves reduced visibility if the autolamp delay fails and headlights shut off immediately upon parking in a dark driveway or garage. Additionally, some vehicles tie central locking or other comfort features to the same body control module circuit, which could leave the car unsecured if those functions are compromised.

Related OBD2 Codes

• B1600: PATS Ignition Key Transponder Signal Is Not Received
• B1601: PATS Received Incorrect Key-Code From Ignition Key Transponder
• B1602: PATS Received Invalid Format Of Key-Code From Ignition Key Transponder
• B1603: Lamp Anti-Theft Indicator Circuit Failure
• B1604: Lamp Anti-Theft Indicator Circuit Open
• B1605: Lamp Anti-Theft Indicator Circuit Short To Battery

The B1692 OBD2 fault code relates to the Turn Signal / Hazard Switch Signal circuit. When the circuit circuit failure, the module cannot properly monitor or control this body system.

At AIscanAuto, we help drivers quickly identify OBD2 trouble codes, understand their root causes, and find the right fix.

Symptoms

• Light not working (headlamp, turn signal, tail, or interior)
• Possible bulb warning on dashboard
• Dim or flickering lights
• Other related lamps affected

Common Causes

• Faulty component — internal damage or wear affecting Turn Signal / Hazard Switch Signal
• Wiring issues — broken, corroded, or chafed wires in the circuit
• Connector problems — loose, oxidized, or moisture-damaged pins
• a general circuit failure is detected — can result from wiring faults, connector issues, or component failure
• Module input failure — rare, but the control module input stage may be defective

Step-by-Step Diagnosis

1. Scan with OBD2 tool — Confirm B1692 is active. Check for additional DTCs.
2. Visual inspection — Examine the Turn Signal / Hazard Switch Signal wiring and connector for corrosion or damage.
3. Check voltage and ground — Use a multimeter to verify proper reference voltage.
4. Test component — Compare readings to factory specs. A stuck or erratic signal confirms failure.
5. Check for shorts/opens — Perform continuity tests on the wiring between the component and control module.

Repair & Solutions

• If the component is defective, replace the Turn Signal / Hazard Switch Signal with an OEM or quality aftermarket part.
• Repair any damaged wiring or connectors using proper methods.
• Clear the DTC with an OBD2 scanner and test drive to verify the code does not return.
• If the code persists after component replacement, inspect the control module connector.

Related Codes

• B1689 — Turn Signal / Hazard Power Feed Circuit Short To Battery
• B1690 — Turn Signal / Hazard Power Feed Circuit Short To Ground
• B1691 — Cellular Phone Handset Not Present