B1587

Autolamp Delay Increase Circuit Failure

Body Chassis/Safety Lighting Control 🟢 Low — Fix at next service ✅ Safe to Drive
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What This Actually Means

In plain language — no jargon

The vehicle's automatic headlight delay system isn't working properly, similar to a dimmer switch that's stuck and won't respond to commands. The body control module detected a malfunction in the circuit that controls how long lights stay on after the engine shuts off.

Symptoms You May Notice

3 known symptoms for this code
Headlights stay on longer or shorter than expected after engine shutdown
Automatic headlight delay feature not functioning at all
Check engine light or body fault indicator illuminated
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How Your ECU Detects This

Technical sensor logic and voltage thresholds

The body control module monitors voltage and resistance in the autolamp delay circuit to verify proper relay operation and timing control. It measures the circuit's ability to energize and de-energize the headlight relay at programmed intervals after ignition off. If voltage drops, resistance spikes, or timing deviates beyond acceptable thresholds, a fault is triggered.

Voltage & Parameter Thresholds

ParameterNormal RangeFault Condition
Relay Coil Voltage 11-14.5V during activation <9V or >15V sustained
Delay Timer Response 30-180 second hold time No response or fails to release within 10 seconds
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Diagnostic & DIY Fix Guide

Check these in order — from cheapest to most complex
1
Battery terminals and connectors
Clean corrosion from battery posts and BCM connectors to restore proper circuit voltage.
2
Autolamp relay
Locate and swap the headlight delay relay with an identical spare to isolate relay failure.
3
Body control module wiring harness
Inspect for pinched, burned, or disconnected wires in the autolamp circuit between battery, relay, and BCM.
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When to See a Professional Mechanic

Not all fault codes are safe to DIY

Code B1587 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 B1587

What happens after you fix the fault

Once the fault is repaired, B1587 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.