OBD Code B1394: Power Door Memory Lock Relay Circuit Short To Battery

Q: What does OBD code B1394 mean?

Power Door Memory Lock Relay Circuit Short To Battery. The power door lock relay circuit is shorting directly to battery voltage instead of operating normally, like a light switch stuck in the ON position with too much power flowing through it. This prevents the door memory lock system from functioning properly.

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What This Actually Means

In plain language — no jargon

The power door lock relay circuit is shorting directly to battery voltage instead of operating normally, like a light switch stuck in the ON position with too much power flowing through it. This prevents the door memory lock system from functioning properly.

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Symptoms You May Notice

3 known symptoms for this code

Door locks do not operate via memory function or power lock buttons

Blown fuse in power door lock circuit

Possible burning smell near door lock relay or wiring

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How Your ECU Detects This

Technical sensor logic and voltage thresholds

The ECU monitors voltage across the power door memory lock relay circuit, expecting controlled low voltage during operation. When the circuit shorts to battery voltage (typically 12-14V), the ECU detects abnormal voltage levels that exceed operating thresholds, triggering the fault code.

Voltage & Parameter Thresholds

Parameter	Normal Range	Fault Condition
Relay Circuit Voltage	0-5V during operation, <0.5V at rest	>10V continuous short to battery
Current Draw	0.5-2A during lock/unlock cycle	>5A sustained draw indicating short

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Diagnostic & DIY Fix Guide

Check these in order — from cheapest to most complex

1

Door lock relay fuse

Locate and replace the blown fuse in the door lock circuit (check owner manual for fuse box location).

2

Power door lock relay

Remove and test the relay for internal shorts using a multimeter, then replace if defective.

3

Door lock wiring harness

Inspect wiring near door hinges and jambs for damage, pinches, or exposed insulation causing short to chassis or battery positive.

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When to See a Professional Mechanic

Not all fault codes are safe to DIY

Code B1394 is a low-severity fault. Your vehicle is generally safe to drive to a workshop for diagnosis. However, do not ignore it indefinitely — low-severity codes often indicate developing problems that become expensive if neglected. Book a diagnostic appointment within 2–4 weeks. If you notice any additional symptoms (rough running, power loss, unusual smells), treat it as higher priority.

Safety note: OBD-II codes identify the system or circuit where a fault was detected — they do not always identify the exact failed component. A professional mechanic using live sensor data will diagnose the root cause more accurately than replacing parts based on the code alone.

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How to Clear Code B1394

What happens after you fix the fault

Once the fault is repaired, B1394 can be cleared using any OBD-II scanner. Connect the scanner, navigate to "Clear Codes" or "Erase DTCs," and confirm. The check engine light turns off immediately.

The code will return if the root cause was not actually fixed. The ECM re-detects the fault within 1–3 drive cycles and sets the code again.

✅ Safe to Clear When

Fault has been diagnosed and repaired
You want to confirm the repair worked
Code appeared after a sensor was cleaned

⚠️ Do Not Clear When

Preparing for an emissions/PUC test
Root cause is still undiagnosed
Check engine light is flashing

Emissions test note: Clearing codes resets OBD readiness monitors. Most vehicles need 50–100 km of mixed driving before monitors complete. Do not clear codes immediately before an emissions or PUC inspection.