B1214 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC B1214 – Running Board Lamp Circuit Failure

DTC B1214 meaning

DTC B1214 refers to a fault in the Running Board Lamp Circuit. This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system has detected an issue with the electrical circuit responsible for the running board lamps, which are typically located on the sides of the vehicle to illuminate the area when entering or exiting.

DTC B1214 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC B1214 may include:

• Running board lamps not functioning or flickering
• Illumination of the warning light on the dashboard
• Inconsistent operation of the running board lamps
• Other related electrical issues in the vehicle

DTC B1214 causes

Several factors can lead to the occurrence of DTC B1214, including:

• Faulty running board lamps
• Damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit
• Short circuits or open circuits in the running board lamp circuit
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Corrosion or poor connections at the lamp sockets

DTC B1214 seriousness

The seriousness of DTC B1214 can vary based on the specific vehicle and its use. However, it is generally considered a moderate issue because:

• It affects the visibility and safety when entering or exiting the vehicle at night.
• It may indicate underlying electrical problems that could affect other systems.
• While it may not prevent the vehicle from operating, it can lead to further complications if not addressed.

How to diagnose DTC B1214

To diagnose DTC B1214, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of DTC B1214.
2. Inspect the running board lamps for physical damage or burnt-out bulbs.
3. Check the wiring and connectors for signs of wear, corrosion, or disconnection.
4. Test the voltage and ground at the running board lamp circuit using a multimeter.
5. Examine the body control module for any faults or software issues.
6. Clear the DTC and perform a functional test of the running board lamps.

How to fix DTC B1214 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC B1214, follow these steps:

1. Replace any faulty running board lamps or bulbs.
2. Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors in the circuit.
3. Ensure all connections are clean and secure, addressing any corrosion.
4. If necessary, replace the body control module (BCM) if it is found to be malfunctioning.
5. After repairs, reconnect the battery and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
6. Test the running board lamps to ensure they are functioning correctly.

How to erase DTC B1214

To erase DTC B1214, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the vehicle’s ignition without starting the engine.
3. Navigate to the “Erase Codes” or “Clear DTCs” option on the scanner.
4. Confirm the action to clear the trouble codes from the vehicle’s memory.
5. Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to verify that the code does not reappear.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.