B1538
Serious Severity (Level 4)Memory 2 Switch Circuit Short To Ground
B1538 usually means memory 2 Switch Circuit Short To Ground.
Can you still drive with B1538?
⚠️Limited driving — get to a repair shop within 1–2 days. Avoid long trips and highway speeds.
Typical repair cost: $180 – $2400
Severity Level 4 — Serious
This code indicates a serious issue that can cause noticeable driveability problems and potential engine damage if not addressed. The vehicle should be taken to a mechanic as soon as possible. Extended driving is not recommended.
Common Symptoms
- Control module not working or completely dead
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Control module blowing fuses when activated
- Zero voltage on the control module memory system circuit — short pulls signal to ground
Possible Causes
- Chafed or pinched wire in the control module memory system circuit — wire insulation worn through, copper touching vehicle chassis/ground
- Failed control module (PCM/BCM) with internal short to ground — most common when the component gets wet or overheats
- Corrosion in the electrical connector allowing current to leak to the connector shell/ground
- Damaged wiring harness where it passes through a body panel grommet or near a sharp metal edge
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 ($23-96 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan)
- Visually inspect the control module memory system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $61 diagnostic fee at shop)
- Repair or replace damaged section of wiring harness where short is located — solder and heat-shrink all connections, don't use crimp connectors on critical circuits ($194-202 depending on accessibility)
- If control module (PCM/BCM) is internally shorted, replace with a quality OEM or OEM-equivalent aftermarket unit ($150-2000)
- Clean all ground points related to the control module memory system — remove bolt, sand contact surface to bare metal, apply dielectric grease, and torque to spec ($77-120 at shop)
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 B1538 mean?
B1538 stands for "Memory 2 Switch Circuit Short To Ground". B1538 usually means memory 2 Switch Circuit Short To Ground.
Can you drive with B1538?
Limited driving — get to a repair shop within 1–2 days. Avoid long trips and highway speeds.
How much does it cost to fix B1538?
Repair costs for B1538 typically range from $180 to $2400, 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 ($23-96 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan); Visually inspect the control module memory system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $61 diagnostic fee at shop); Repair or replace damaged section of wiring harness where short is located — solder and heat-shrink all connections, don't use crimp connectors on critical circuits ($194-202 depending on accessibility).
Will B1538 clear itself?
Explore Repair Costs
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