B1969 OBD-II Trouble Code: Air Conditoner Clutch Magnetic Control Circuit Failure

Our certified mechanics come to you · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

EXCELLENT RATING ON

Cost of diagnosing the B1969 code

B1969 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Air Conditoner Clutch Magnetic Control Circuit Failure". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

SCHEDULE B1969 DIAGNOSTIC Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

B1969 code definition

The B1969 trouble code detects an AC clutch magnetic control circuit malfunction.

What the B1969 code means

The B1969 code is a standard OBD-II trouble code that signals a circuit error in the AC clutch magnetic control system. The magnetic clutch is part of the AC compressor, which is a critical piece of the climate control system. The clutch lets the compressor engage and disengage, which allows the AC refrigerant to move through the evaporator, condenser, and expansion valve. When the climate control module detects a circuit problem from the magnetic clutch control, then the B1969 code may be triggered.

What causes the B1969 code?

The most likely cause of the B1969 code is damaged electrical components in the climate control system, and specifically in the magnetic clutch control. Shorted wires, open connectors, and blown fuses are all common culprits. A defective magnetic clutch is also a common cause. While a little less common, this code can also be caused by a failed AC compressor. Finally, a faulty climate control module is sometimes responsible for the B1969 code, though this is fairly uncommon.

What are the symptoms of the B1969 code?

The B1969 trouble code may be accompanied by an illuminated check engine soon warning light on the instrument panel, or a flashing AC light on the center console. The air conditioning system likely will not work properly, which may result in erratic air temperature, or a complete lack of any air conditioning.

How does a mechanic diagnose the B1969 code?

The B1969 trouble code will be diagnosed using a standard OBD-II trouble code scanner. A trained mechanic will assess the code by viewing the freeze frame data from the scanner. The scanner will also be used to see if there are any additional trouble codes present. If multiple codes are detected, then they will need to be diagnosed in the order that they appear in on the scanner. The trouble codes will then be reset and the vehicle restarted, so that the technician can check for the B1969 code. If the code is no longer present, then was likely inaccurately detected, or represents an intermittent error.

If the code is still detected, then the mechanic will begin by visually inspecting all of the electrical components in the system, and replacing any parts that are damaged. The magnetic clutch should then be inspected, followed by the AC compressor.

After any replacements or repairs are made, the trouble codes will again be reset, and the vehicle again restarted, so the B1969 code can be checked for. This will allow the technician to know as soon as the issue is fully fixed.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the B1969 code

The most frequently made error when assessing this code comes from a failure to comply with the standard OBD-II trouble code diagnosis protocol. The diagnosis protocol should be followed step by step, at all times, as it helps ensure a thorough and accurate repair.

Magnetic clutches that are working properly are frequently condemned because the electrical system was overlooked during inspections.

How serious is the B1969 code?

A vehicle with the B1969 trouble code will be completely drivable, with no drivability issues at all. However, the air conditioning system will likely function poorly, which may mean no cold air at all. This can be impractical and uncomfortable, so a diagnosis should be schedule as soon as the code is detected.

What repairs can fix the B1969 code?

Potential repairs for the B1969 trouble code are:

Additional comments for consideration regarding the B1969 code

This code is a manufacturer specific code, which means that the definition changes from automaker to automaker. The B1969 code detects an AC magnetic clutch control circuit failure in some cars, but suggests a different body problem for other manufacturers. Technicians should be aware of the vehicle they are working on anytime they diagnose the B1969 trouble code.

Need help with a B1969 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

OBD-II
trouble codes
B1969

No more waiting rooms! Our mechanics will come to you to diagnose and fix the B1969 code.

SCHEDULE B1969 DIAGNOSTIC
Get a $50 credit for the follow-up repair

Recent Check Engine Light is on Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(8600)

Rating Summary
8017
273
65
46
199
8017
273
65
46
199
 at YourMechanic

Brandon

9 years of experience
133 reviews
Brandon
9 years of experience
Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
Brandon showed up ahead of schedule, was very personable and diagnosed my problems. He also scheduled my next appointments which will be with him.
 at YourMechanic

William

23 years of experience
33 reviews
William
23 years of experience
Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
Arrived early which was great. William was courteous, and attentive to the issue. Even though it took several attempts I'm so happy he was determined to fix it and he did!
 at YourMechanic

Dan

40 years of experience
1080 reviews
Dan
40 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Mr. Dan Barber was quite patient, courteous and quite knowledgeable. From my observation, Mr. Barber appears to be quite professional.
 at YourMechanic

Christopher

9 years of experience
120 reviews
Christopher
9 years of experience
Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
Chris communicated with us each step of the way up until his arrival. He listened well, was knowledgeable, and was prepared. He took the time to diagnose the problem, explained the what, why and how and provided a solution. I would definitely recommend him and will use him again.


More related articles

P2739 OBD-II Trouble Code: Press Control Solenoid F Control Circuit High
P2739 means a problem was detected with a transmission solenoid usually caused by a failing transmission, low fluid level, or electrical issue.
P0298 OBD-II Trouble Code: Engine Oil Over Temperature Condition
P0298 means that the engine is or has recently overheated due to low coolant level, faulty cooling fan, thermostat, or radiator.
B1394 OBD-II Trouble Code: Power Door Memory Lock Relay Circuit Short to Battery
B1394 means there is an error with the power door memory lock relay circuit, likely due to damaged wires or electrical component, or a faulty circuit.

Related questions

While highway driving, car stopped accelerating & became inoperative
This message indicates there is a problem in the anti-lock braking and/or electronic stability program system. If the problem is severe enough, the vehicle will go into limp mode, as you experienced. The root cause could be anything from a...
Code p0008
This is a general code associated with vehicle timing which can be caused by many different things such as: Engine timing out of sync Worn timing components (chains, gears, guides) Crankshaft or camshaft sensor malfunctions Wiring damage ECM software out...
Trouble code P2015. I don't know how to fix it.
The intake manifold runner control is a system that controls amount of air entering the engine, by way of valves in each intake manifold runner. They are linked together as 4 per side, bank 1 and bank 2. The control...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com