B1831

Q: Will B1831 clear itself?

B1831 may clear itself after a few drive cycles if the underlying issue was temporary (such as a loose gas cap or minor sensor glitch). However, if the underlying problem persists, the code will return. It's best to have the vehicle diagnosed even if the light goes off.

Low Severity (Level 1)

Door Unlock Disarm Switch Circuit Open

B1831 usually means door Unlock Disarm Switch Circuit Open.

Can you still drive with B1831?

✅Safe to drive — this is an informational or minor issue. Schedule diagnosis at your convenience.

Typical repair cost: $90 – $600

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

Power door locks not working — no response when activated
Door locks cycling (locking/unlocking) on their own while driving
Power door locks not responding to key fob or interior switch
Infinite resistance in the power door lock/latch circuit — broken wire or disconnected connector

Possible Causes

Broken wire or connector pin in the power door lock/latch 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 door lock actuator — 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
Broken wire in the door jamb wiring boot — harness flexes every time the door opens, eventually wires break inside the rubber boot

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 ($13-122 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan)
Visually inspect the power door lock/latch system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $96 diagnostic fee at shop)
Trace the power door lock/latch system wiring from connector to connector with a multimeter set to continuity/resistance mode — find and repair the break in the circuit ($132-459 labor for diagnosis and repair)
Check and reseat all connectors in the power door lock/latch system circuit — disconnect, inspect pins, clean with electrical contact cleaner, apply dielectric grease, and reconnect firmly ($11 DIY or $65 shop minimum)
If door lock actuator has failed internally (open circuit inside), replace it — don't try to repair sealed components ($80-500)

Estimated Repair Cost

$90 – $600(typical range; varies by vehicle make and model)

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 B1831 mean?

B1831 stands for "Door Unlock Disarm Switch Circuit Open". B1831 usually means door Unlock Disarm Switch Circuit Open.

Can you drive with B1831?

Safe to drive — this is an informational or minor issue. Schedule diagnosis at your convenience.

How much does it cost to fix B1831?

Repair costs for B1831 typically range from $90 to $600, 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 ($13-122 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan); Visually inspect the power door lock/latch system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $96 diagnostic fee at shop); Trace the power door lock/latch system wiring from connector to connector with a multimeter set to continuity/resistance mode — find and repair the break in the circuit ($132-459 labor for diagnosis and repair).

Will B1831 clear itself?

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Related OBD-II Codes

These codes are in the same range as B1831 and often share similar causes and fixes.

B0001— Driver Frontal Stage 1 Deployment Control B0002— Driver Frontal Stage 2 Deployment Control B0003— Driver Frontal Stage 3 Deployment Control B0004— Driver Knee Bolster Deployment Control B0005— Collapsible Steering Column Deployment Control

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