B1471
Low Severity (Level 1)Lamp Headlamp Input Circuit Open
B1471 usually means lamp Headlamp Input Circuit Open.
Can you still drive with B1471?
✅Safe to drive — this is an informational or minor issue. Schedule diagnosis at your convenience.
Typical repair cost: $20 – $700
Severity Level 1 — Low
This code indicates a minor issue that is unlikely to cause immediate driveability problems. You can typically continue driving but should have the vehicle inspected at your earliest convenience.
Common Symptoms
- Headlights working intermittently, then stopping completely
- Headlights flickering, not working on one side, or not switching between high/low beam
- Headlight warning message on instrument cluster display
- Infinite resistance in the headlight circuit — broken wire or disconnected connector
Possible Causes
- Broken wire or connector pin in the headlight system harness — common at flex points like door jambs or where wiring moves
- Disconnected or loose electrical connector — may have been bumped during other repairs
- Failed headlight bulb/ballast — internal open circuit from age, heat cycling, or vibration
- Corrosion completely severing a wire or connector terminal — green crust on copper wiring
- Wiring harness damage from rodent chewing — look for nesting material near the engine or under dash
Common Fixes
- Scan vehicle with a professional-grade OBD2 scanner to read all stored codes and freeze frame data — note the conditions when the code set ($10-123 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan)
- Visually inspect the headlight system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $80 diagnostic fee at shop)
- Trace the headlight system wiring from connector to connector with a multimeter set to continuity/resistance mode — find and repair the break in the circuit ($101-394 labor for diagnosis and repair)
- Check and reseat all connectors in the headlight system circuit — disconnect, inspect pins, clean with electrical contact cleaner, apply dielectric grease, and reconnect firmly ($13 DIY or $52 shop minimum)
- If headlight bulb/ballast has failed internally (open circuit inside), replace it — don't try to repair sealed components ($20-600)
Estimated Repair Cost
These are estimated costs based on generic repair data. Actual costs may vary depending on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does B1471 mean?
B1471 stands for "Lamp Headlamp Input Circuit Open". B1471 usually means lamp Headlamp Input Circuit Open.
Can you drive with B1471?
Safe to drive — this is an informational or minor issue. Schedule diagnosis at your convenience.
How much does it cost to fix B1471?
Repair costs for B1471 typically range from $20 to $700, depending on your vehicle make, model, and local labor rates. Common fixes include: Scan vehicle with a professional-grade OBD2 scanner to read all stored codes and freeze frame data — note the conditions when the code set ($10-123 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan); Visually inspect the headlight system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $80 diagnostic fee at shop); Trace the headlight system wiring from connector to connector with a multimeter set to continuity/resistance mode — find and repair the break in the circuit ($101-394 labor for diagnosis and repair).
Will B1471 clear itself?
Explore Repair Costs
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