B1558
Moderate Severity (Level 3)Ignition Run/Start Circuit Short To Ground
B1558 usually means ignition Run/Start Circuit Short To Ground.
Can you still drive with B1558?
⚠️Short-distance driving is usually OK, but have this diagnosed within a week to prevent further damage.
Typical repair cost: $120 – $700
Severity Level 3 — Moderate
This code indicates a moderate issue that may affect vehicle performance and fuel economy. Continued driving is possible in most cases, but prompt diagnosis and repair are recommended to prevent further damage.
Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Ignition blowing fuses when activated
- Ignition not working or completely dead
- Zero voltage on the ignition system circuit — short pulls signal to ground
Possible Causes
- Chafed or pinched wire in the ignition system circuit — wire insulation worn through, copper touching vehicle chassis/ground
- Failed ignition module/switch 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 ($3-132 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan)
- Visually inspect the ignition system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $81 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 ($115-474 depending on accessibility)
- If ignition module/switch is internally shorted, replace with a quality OEM or OEM-equivalent aftermarket unit ($100-600)
- Clean all ground points related to the ignition system — remove bolt, sand contact surface to bare metal, apply dielectric grease, and torque to spec ($36-149 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 B1558 mean?
B1558 stands for "Ignition Run/Start Circuit Short To Ground". B1558 usually means ignition Run/Start Circuit Short To Ground.
Can you drive with B1558?
Short-distance driving is usually OK, but have this diagnosed within a week to prevent further damage.
How much does it cost to fix B1558?
Repair costs for B1558 typically range from $120 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 ($3-132 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan); Visually inspect the ignition system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $81 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 ($115-474 depending on accessibility).
Will B1558 clear itself?
Explore Repair Costs
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