Home / DTC / B1588 — B/UP capacitor up converter

B1588 — B/UP capacitor up converter

Detailed page for trouble code B1588.

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Code

B1588

MITSUBISHI B — Body

B/UP capacitor up converter

Brand: MITSUBISHI
Type: B — Body
Views: UK: 18 EN: 23 RU: 23
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty up‑converter (DC‑DC) module that charges/conditions the backup capacitor
  • Failed or degraded backup capacitor (low capacitance, high ESR)
  • Open, short or high resistance in wiring or connector to converter/capacitor
  • Blown fuse, tripped relay or poor power/ground connection
  • Low vehicle battery voltage or charging system problem
  • Intermittent contact/corrosion at connectors

Symptoms

  • DTC B1588 stored and MIL or body warning lamp may be illuminated
  • Loss of backup/retained power functions (memory loss of some modules after key off)
  • Intermittent electrical anomalies or reoccurring body control warnings
  • Possible inability to maintain certain systems when key is off (depending on vehicle)
  • Vehicle may reboot or modules may report additional communication errors

What to check

  • Read/record all stored DTCs and freeze frame data with a capable scan tool
  • Visually inspect converter module, backup capacitor, harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, heat or water intrusion
  • Inspect related fuses and relays; check for blown fuses and correct relay operation
  • Measure battery voltage (key ON and cranking) and charging system output
  • Check continuity and resistance of power and ground leads to the converter and capacitor
  • If accessible, measure converter input and output voltages and waveform with a multimeter/oscilloscope

Signal parameters

  • Battery voltage: nominal ~12.0–14.5 V (vehicle off/on as applicable) — verify per vehicle spec
  • Converter input: should follow battery voltage when powered (no large drop under load)
  • Converter output: stable regulated voltage within manufacturer specification (measure at connector) — no large ripple or dropouts
  • Charging current pulse when capacitor is being charged (measurable with clamp meter) — not continuous excessive current
  • Capacitor ESR: low for a healthy capacitor; high ESR indicates degraded capacitor (measure with ESR meter or equivalent)
  • CAN/serial comm lines (if used): idle voltages ~2.5 V and proper recessive/dominant levels (no bus errors)

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Connect scan tool, record B1588 plus any accompanying codes and freeze frame data. Clear codes and attempt to reproduce condition.
  2. Visually inspect the up‑converter and capacitor area for physical damage, oil/water ingress, overheating or loose connectors.
  3. Verify battery state and charging system. A weak/low battery can cause converter faults — repair charging/battery issues first.
  4. Check fuses/relays that feed the converter; replace any blown fuses and verify relay operation and control circuit.
  5. With vehicle safe and capacitors discharged per safety procedures, check wiring harness continuity and resistance from battery/ignition feed and ground to the converter and capacitor.
  6. Measure converter input and output voltages during key ON and during an attempt to charge the capacitor. Compare to manufacturer values; look for excessive ripple or no output.
  7. If equipped, measure capacitor capacitance and ESR. Replace capacitor if capacitance is below spec or ESR is high.
  8. If wiring, fuses and capacitor are good but converter output is missing or abnormal, suspect the up‑converter module — consider replacement or bench test per service manual.
  9. After repairs, clear codes, verify operation over several key cycles and road/usage conditions. Recheck for reoccurrence and for other related DTCs.
  10. Safety note: High‑energy capacitors can retain a dangerous charge. Follow manufacturer service manual procedures to discharge and isolate capacitors before handling.

Likely causes

  • Up‑converter module failure
  • Backup capacitor failed (loss of capacitance or excessive ESR)
  • Open/short in power or ground wiring to the converter
  • Blown fuse or faulty relay feeding the converter
  • Corroded/loose connector or ground

Fault status

⚠️ Status
B1588 — Backup capacitor up‑converter malfunction: abnormal voltage/charging behavior or electrical fault detected in up‑converter/capacitor circuit.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0-2.5 hours

Similar codes

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Browse 203 MITSUBISHI manuals: repair procedures, diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component locations, service data and Labor Times by year, model and trim.

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