OBD Guide

B396E

Liftgate Close Switch Malfunction

B396E is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Liftgate Close Switch Malfunction. Common causes: faulty rear door lock switch, open or short circuit in wiring harness. Estimated repair cost: $22–89.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$22–89 (est.)

Symptoms

  • The rear door does not lock in the closed position
  • Central locking does not work when closing the rear door
  • The door open indicator lights up when the door is closed
  • Problems with interior lighting (does not go out when the door is closed)
  • Error on the dashboard

Causes

  • Faulty rear door lock switch
  • Open or short circuit in wiring harness
  • Corrosion of switch contacts
  • Rear door lock problems
  • Body control module malfunction

How to Fix

  1. Visual inspection of the switch and its contacts
  2. Checking the integrity of the wiring harness to the switch
  3. Testing a switch with a multimeter
  4. Cleaning contacts from corrosion
  5. Replacing a faulty switch
  6. Check and repair the wiring harness if necessary
  7. Resetting an error with an OBD-II scanner after repair

Related codes

Error B396E by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the B396E code mean?

B396E is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Liftgate Close Switch Malfunction

What causes a B396E error code?

The most common causes of B396E include: Faulty rear door lock switch; Open or short circuit in wiring harness; Corrosion of switch contacts; Rear door lock problems.

How do I fix a B396E diagnostic trouble code?

To fix B396E: Visual inspection of the switch and its contacts. Checking the integrity of the wiring harness to the switch. Testing a switch with a multimeter. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with B396E?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix B396E?

The estimated repair cost for B396E is $22–89. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat