Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

B396E




Liftgate Close Switch Malfunction - DTC B396E

Diagnostic Instructions

* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle (Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle) prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis (Strategy Based Diagnosis) for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions (Diagnostic Procedure Instructions) provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor
DTC B396E 02
- Rear Liftgate Actuator Switch Circuit Short To Ground

Diagnostic Fault Information





Circuit/System Description

The liftgate close switch circuit provides a single input to the liftgate control module. The liftgate close switch is supplied a signal voltage, when the switch contact closes, the liftgate control module detects the voltage drop and commands the liftgate to close.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The system voltage is 9-16 V.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The liftgate control module detects the liftgate close signal circuit is active for greater than 30 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

The liftgate control module will ignore the input from the liftgate close switch, the liftgate will only power close by using the interior liftgate control switch or by a close request from the remote control door lock receiver.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

* The DTC will be current for as long as the fault is present.
* When the fault is no longer present, the DTC will be a history DTC.
* A history DTC will clear after 50 ignition cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

* If the liftgate will not release from the closed position, refer to Opening the Liftgate Without Electrical Power (Procedures) for the appropriate procedure
* Whenever the liftgate control module loses power or is disconnected, the ignition must be cycled OFF then ON in order to reactivate the liftgate control module.

Reference Information
Schematic Reference

Liftgate Schematics (Liftgate Schematics)
Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views (Connector End Views By Name)
Description and Operation

Liftgate Description and Operation (Liftgate)
Electrical Information Reference

* Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections (Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections)
* Circuit Testing (Circuit Testing)
* Wiring Repairs (Wiring Repairs)
* Connector Repairs (Connector Repairs)

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

Ignition ON, with the liftgate open, observe the scan tool Liftgate Rear Close Switch parameter while pressing and releasing the B70 liftgate close switch. The parameter should change from Inactive to Active.

Circuit/System Testing

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the B70 liftgate close switch.
2. Test for less than 10 ohm between the low reference circuit terminal 4 and ground.

If greater than the specified range, test the low reference circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the K39 liftgate control module

3. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool Liftgate Rear Close Switch parameter is Inactive.

If not the specified value, test the signal circuit terminal 3 for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the K39 liftgate control module.

4. Connect a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal 3 and ground, verify the scan tool Liftgate Rear Close Switch parameter is Active.

If not the specified value, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the K39 liftgate control module.

5. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the B70 liftgate close switch.

Component Testing

Liftgate Close Switch Assembly
1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the B70 liftgate close switch.
2. Test for infinite resistance between the signal terminal 3 and the low reference terminal 4 with the switch in the inactive position.

If not the specified value, replace the B70 liftgate close switch.

3. Test for less than 3 ohm between the signal terminal 3 and the low reference terminal 4 with the switch in the active position.

If greater than the specified range, replace the B70 liftgate close switch.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification (Verification Tests) after completing the repair.

* Liftgate Close Switch Replacement (Liftgate Close Switch Replacement)
* Control Module References (Programming and Relearning) for the liftgate control module replacement, setup and programming