B1740

Mirror Driver Horizontal Switch Circuit Short To Ground

Body Chassis/Safety Mirror control circuit 🟢 Low — Fix at next service ✅ Safe to Drive
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What This Actually Means

In plain language — no jargon

The mirror's horizontal adjustment switch is sending a constant ground signal to the ECU, like a stuck button that won't release. This short circuit prevents the mirror motor from responding to driver inputs.

Symptoms You May Notice

3 known symptoms for this code
Driver-side mirror won't adjust horizontally left or right
Mirror control switch unresponsive or stuck in one position
Fault code stored in body control module
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How Your ECU Detects This

Technical sensor logic and voltage thresholds

The ECU monitors the voltage signal from the horizontal mirror switch circuit. Normally the switch creates variable resistance; when shorted to ground, voltage remains near 0V continuously. The ECU detects this abnormal low voltage condition as a fault.

Voltage & Parameter Thresholds

ParameterNormal RangeFault Condition
Switch circuit voltage 0.5V to 4.5V (variable with switch position) Below 0.2V (continuous ground short)
Circuit resistance 500Ω to 5kΩ (variable) Below 100Ω (short condition)
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Diagnostic & DIY Fix Guide

Check these in order — from cheapest to most complex
1
Mirror switch connector
Inspect and reseat the electrical connector at the mirror switch for corrosion or loose pins.
2
Mirror switch assembly
Replace the faulty horizontal switch control module in the door panel.
3
Wiring harness
Repair or replace damaged wiring in the mirror control circuit that may be shorted to vehicle ground.
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When to See a Professional Mechanic

Not all fault codes are safe to DIY

Code B1740 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 B1740

What happens after you fix the fault

Once the fault is repaired, B1740 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.