GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

DTC B1446 RHD

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC B1446: Backup Battery Timer Expired

Circuit/System Description

The Back-up Battery provides voltage to the communication interface module , to be able to successfully place a call in the event of a main battery disconnect during a collision event.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • Ignition is in the RUN or ACC position.
    • System voltage is between 9.5 and 15.5 volts.
    • DTC B1447 is not set.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The communication interface module detects that the back-up battery voltage has dropped below the minimum threshold value.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

The communication interface module commands the red LED ON.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • When the CIM detects the voltage of the back-up battery is above the minimum threshold value.
    • The history DTC will clear after 50 fault-free ignition cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

Note: Shorting the back-up battery positive voltage circuit to the back-up battery ground circuit or chassis ground will activate the internal circuit protection of the back-up battery , rendering the back-up battery inoperable.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Telematics Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Telematics Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector X1 at the comunication interface module.
  2. Test for greater than 15.5 volts between terminals 13 and 14.
  3. If less than specified value, test the battery backup supply voltage circuit and battery backup low reference circuit for an open/high resistance, short to ground or short to voltage. If the circuits test normal, replace the back-up battery.
  4. If all circuits test normal, replace the comunication interface module.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Communication Interface Module Battery Replacement
    •  Control Module References for communication interface module replacement, setup and programming.