Code
B16A3
MITSUBISHI
B — Body
Body Control Module — Internal Fault (B16A3)
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- BCM internal hardware failure (logic, memory, or processor fault)
- Corrupted or failed BCM software/firmware
- Low or unstable supply voltage to the BCM (battery, charging system)
- Poor ground or intermittent power supply to the BCM
- Water intrusion, corrosion, or physical damage to BCM or connectors
- Damaged wiring, short to battery or ground, or high resistance in power/ground circuits
Symptoms
- Multiple body functions unreliable or inoperative (lighting, wipers, door locks, windows)
- Related warning lights or messages on instrument cluster
- Loss of communication with BCM on diagnostic scanner (U-codes may also appear)
- Intermittent electrical symptoms (random relays, locks, lamps switching)
- Possible no-start or immobilizer related faults if BCM interfaces with security
What to check
- Read and record all stored DTCs and freeze frame data with a capable scan tool
- Check battery voltage with key on/engine off and during cranking (should be ~12.4–12.8 V idle, >9.5 V during cranking)
- Inspect BCM connectors and harness for corrosion, water entry, bent pins, or loose connectors
- Verify fuses and power relays supplying the BCM are good and have proper continuity
- Check main ground(s) for the BCM for tightness and low resistance to chassis/negative battery
- Check CAN/LIN communication lines for bus errors, termination, and correct voltages
Signal parameters
- BCM supply voltage (expected ≈ 12 V with key ON; stable within vehicle tolerances)
- BCM ground continuity (near 0 ohms to chassis/negative battery)
- CAN High/CAN Low common-mode voltage (~2.5 V) and differential signaling present when network active
- CAN bus data frames: modules present, error counters, bus-off status
- LIN or other serial bus activity if BCM interfaces with subnets (presence/idle levels)
Diagnostic algorithm
- Connect a manufacturer-capable scan tool and read all DTCs from BCM and other modules; save codes and freeze-frame data.
- Verify whether the code is current/active or stored/historic. If historic, note conditions and try to reproduce.
- Check battery voltage and charging system; ensure battery is charged and terminals clean and tight.
- Inspect BCM connector and wiring for corrosion, bent pins, water ingress, or damaged insulation. Repair any damage found.
- Verify fuses and power/ground circuits to the BCM: measure voltage at BCM power pins and continuity to ground.
- Check communication lines (CAN/LIN): observe bus with scan tool or oscilloscope for frames, error flags, and correct voltages; look for bus-off conditions or high error counts.
- If power/ground and bus are good, attempt to clear code and monitor if B16A3 returns during normal operation or specific function tests.
- Check for available BCM software/firmware updates or TSBs; reflash or reprogram BCM per manufacturer procedure if recommended.
- If reprogramming fails or module continues to report internal fault after confirming external systems are good, consider replacing the BCM and performing required programming/configuration. Follow OEM procedures for replacement and immobilizer/security pairing.
- After repair or replacement, re-scan all modules and perform a full systems check to ensure no residual faults remain.
Likely causes
- Corrupted firmware or software fault inside BCM
- Poor power/ground to the BCM (low battery voltage, blown fuse, bad ground)
- Corrosion or water damage to BCM or connector pins
- Intermittent wiring fault causing voltage spikes or dropouts
Fault status
Status
Body Control Module internal fault detected — module self-diagnostic reports an internal error or invalid internal state.
Repair difficulty: Hard
Diagnostic time: 1.5-4.0 hours
Similar codes
Repair manuals
Manual library for MITSUBISHI
406
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