Home / DTC / B29E3 — Key switch signal:long

B29E3 — Key switch signal:long

Detailed page for trouble code B29E3.

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Code

B29E3

MITSUBISHI B — Body

Key switch signal:long

Brand: MITSUBISHI
Type: B — Body
AI status
Completed
ready
Completed 100%
Page language: EN

Causes

  • Stuck or mechanically damaged ignition/key switch
  • Short to power in the ignition/key switch wiring
  • Faulty starter relay or stuck relay contacts
  • Poor connector or corrosion at the ignition switch harness or body control module (BCM) connector
  • Faulty BCM/immobilizer module or software error
  • Damaged wiring (chafing, pinched, water intrusion) causing a sustained signal

Symptoms

  • Engine cranks continuously or starter stays engaged after key release
  • No-crank or intermittent crank depending on circuit behavior
  • Starter binds or does not disengage properly
  • Battery drain when vehicle is off
  • Ignition or immobilizer warning lamp illuminated on dash
  • Intermittent start/stop failures or unexpected shutdowns

What to check

  • Retrieve and record freeze-frame and all related B-codes with a capable scan tool
  • Attempt to reproduce the condition and note vehicle state (key position, engine status, temperature)
  • Visually inspect ignition switch, key cylinder (or push-button start module) and surrounding wiring for damage, corrosion or signs of heat
  • Check fuses and relays related to ignition/starter circuits; swap relay with known-good if applicable
  • Measure battery voltage before testing (low voltage may affect readings)
  • Backprobe ignition switch harness and BCM input connector while operating key to observe signal behavior

Signal parameters

  • OFF: ignition switch input typically near 0 V (ground)
  • ACC/ON: ignition switch input near battery voltage (~12 V) when activated
  • START: momentary 12 V pulse applied to starter circuit — normally a brief pulse while cranking
  • Expected START pulse duration: typically a short, momentary signal (milliseconds to a couple seconds during cranking); 'long' means the START/ignition input is held active substantially longer than a normal cranking event
  • Measure using a multimeter for steady-state voltage and an oscilloscope or graphing tool to capture pulse duration and shape

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Confirm code and note any related DTCs; clear codes and attempt to reproduce to verify persistence
  2. Inspect ignition switch area, connectors and wiring for visible damage or contamination
  3. Check and record battery voltage; ensure supply is healthy before active tests
  4. With connector backprobed, operate key through positions while observing voltage on the ignition/START input at the BCM and at the switch end — compare behavior to expected transitions
  5. Use oscilloscope or graphing scan tool to capture the START pulse during cranking and note pulse width and whether it remains high after key released
  6. If START signal stays high at the BCM but is correct at the switch, inspect harness between switch and BCM for short to power or wired fault
  7. If START signal is incorrect at the switch, remove and test the ignition switch; bench-test replacement if available
  8. Check starter relay operation and replace or swap with known-good relay to rule out stuck relay
  9. Inspect/replace damaged wiring, repair corroded connectors, and ensure good grounds
  10. If wiring and mechanical parts OK, test/replace BCM or immobilizer module per manufacturer guidance (often last resort)
  11. After repairs, clear codes and verify normal operation under the same conditions that set the code

Likely causes

  • Ignition switch contact welded or stuck in START/ON position
  • Starter relay contacts welded closed or relay stuck energized
  • Pinched harness near steering column causing short to battery
  • Corroded connector at ignition switch or BCM causing intermittent/continuous signal
  • BCM input driver damaged or faulty

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Key switch signal: long — the ignition/key input was detected active for longer than expected; possible stuck switch, wiring short, relay or module fault.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 0.5-3.0 hours

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