GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The body control module (BCM) controls the dimming operation of the interior lamps. The BCM applies a 12-volt reference signal to the instrument panel (I/P) dimming switch. When you move the I/P dimming switch, the BCM uses this varying voltage signal in order to apply a pulse width modulation (PWM) voltage which controls the brightness of the interior illumination lamps.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC B1397 Dimming Reference Voltage Circuit Low

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • Voltage supplied to the module is in the normal operating range, approximately 9-16 volts.
    • The interior lamps must be ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The BCM detects a short to ground or an open in the dimming reference voltage circuit.
    • The condition is present for longer than 3 ms.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

The BCM stores DTC B1397 in memory.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

    • A current DTC B1397 clears when the BCM no longer detects an open or a short to ground in the dimming reference voltage circuit.
    • A history DTC B1397 clears after 100 consecutive ignition cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

    • If the DTC B1397 is a history DTC, the fault may be intermittent. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections .
    • An intermittent short to ground or an open in the following locations may cause an intermittent malfunction to occur:
       - The dimming reference voltage circuit
       - The I/P dimming switch
       - The BCM

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. This step verifies that the BCM is providing reference voltage to the headlamp switch.

  2. This step tests the dimming return circuit for a high resistance or an open.

Step

Action

Values

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Interior Lights Dimming Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Master Electrical Component List

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

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Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

  1. Disconnect the headlamp switch.
  2. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  3. Measure the voltage from the dimming reference voltage circuit.

Does the voltage measure near the specified value?

12 V

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 4

3

Inspect the dimming return circuit for a high resistance or an open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 6

4

Inspect the dimming reference voltage circuit for a high resistance, an open or a short to ground. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 5

5

Replace the body control module (BCM). Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 7

--

6

Replace the headlamp switch. Refer to Headlamp Switch Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 7

--

7

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs .
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the DTC reset?

--

Go to Step 2

System OK