B1898 code definition

The B1898 trouble code notes a chime input #2 circuit error.

What the B1898 code means

The B1898 code is a standard OBD-II trouble code that detects a chime input circuit error. The chime input circuit is responsible for triggering a warning chime in the cabin of the vehicle when the controller area network (CAN) bus, or any number of control modules report an error that the driver should be alerted about. For instance, if the door is ajar when the vehicle is turned on, or the parking brake is on when the vehicle begins to move, or the driver seat belt is not fastened, the warning buzzer will chime. If the body control module detects an abnormal voltage reading from the chime input circuit, then the B1898 code will likely be triggered.

What causes the B1898 code?

The most common cause of the B1898 code is damaged electrical components in the chime system, such as broken wires, open connectors, and blown fuses. A short or open circuit is also a potential cause of the code. While very rare, a defective CAN bus can result in the B1898 code as well.

What are the symptoms of the B1898 code?

When the B1898 trouble code is stored, the warning chime system will likely not operate correctly. The warning chimes may not sound at all, or they may only sound for certain warnings.

How does a mechanic diagnose the B1898 code?

The B1898 code will be diagnosed with the help of a standard OBD-II trouble code scanner. A trained mechanic will use the scanner to look at the freeze frame data and assess the B1898 code. The mechanic will also look to see if there are any other trouble codes detected, as codes should always be diagnosed in the order that the scanner displays them in. The trouble codes will then be reset, the vehicle restarted, and the B1898 code checked for. If the code is no longer present, then it was probably inaccurately detected, or represents an erroneous error.

If the code remains detected, the mechanic will visually inspect all of the electrical components in the system, and replace any wires, fuses, and connectors that are in any way compromised. If all of the electrical parts are fully operational, then the chime input circuit will require inspection.

After any repairs or replacements are made, the technician will need to again reset the trouble codes, restart the vehicle, and check for the presence of the B1898 code. This will help the mechanic know as soon as the chime input circuit issue has been resolved.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the B1898 code

The most commonly made error when diagnosing the B1898 code comes from not properly following the OBD-II trouble code diagnosis protocol. Mechanics should comply with the protocol step by step at all times, to help ensure accurate and efficient diagnoses.

It is common for the trouble codes to not be addressed in order when there are multiple codes present, which can lead to erroneous repairs if the codes were related.

How serious is the B1898 code?

When the B1898 code is stored, the warning chime system will likely not work. This means that the driver will not be alerted about certain safety issues and drivability problems. For safety reasons, a vehicle should be inspected as soon as the B1898 trouble code is detected.

What repairs can fix the B1898 code?

Potential repairs for the B1898 trouble code are:

Additional comments for consideration regarding the B1898 code

It is extremely uncommon for the B1898 code to be triggered by CAN bus failure, so all other potential causes should be thoroughly inspected before controller failure is assumed.

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This article originally appeared on YourMechanic.com as B1898 OBD-II Trouble Code: Chime Input #2 Circuit Short to Ground and was authored by Brady Klopfer.

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