Failed window motor or regulator assembly; Broken or frayed wires in the door jamb boot; Faulty window switch or master switch assembly; Corroded or loose electrical connectors at the motor or switch; Blown fuse or faulty relay in the power window circuit; Body control module (BCM) or door module software or hardware fault; Mechanical binding or obstruction in the window track

DTC codes / B05xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B0500

B0500Driver Power Window Circuit Malfunction

Q: What does code B0500 mean?

Driver Power Window Circuit Malfunction. B0500 is a body code indicating that the driver's door power window circuit has a malfunction, typically an open, short, or excessive resistance detected by the body control module (BCM) or door module. The computer monitors the window motor circuit for expected voltage and current during operation, and when the feedback falls outside the programmed range, it sets this code and may disable the window function.

B0500 is a body code indicating that the driver's door power window circuit has a malfunction, typically an open, short, or excessive resistance detected by the body control module (BCM) or door module. The computer monitors the window motor circuit for expected voltage and current during operation, and when the feedback falls outside the programmed range, it sets this code and may disable the window function.

SystemBody

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaAirbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems

Symptoms you may notice

Driver's window does not move when the switch is pressed in either direction
Window moves slowly or intermittently, especially in cold weather
Window operates only from the master switch or only from the door switch
Audible clicking from the door panel when the switch is pressed but no movement
Window may reverse direction unexpectedly or stop mid-travel
Often no symptoms besides the warning light if the fault is intermittent

Common causes, most likely first

Failed window motor or regulator assembly
Broken or frayed wires in the door jamb boot
Faulty window switch or master switch assembly
Corroded or loose electrical connectors at the motor or switch
Blown fuse or faulty relay in the power window circuit
Body control module (BCM) or door module software or hardware fault
Mechanical binding or obstruction in the window track

How to diagnose and fix it

Check the power window fuse and relay, replacing if blown or faulty
Inspect the wiring harness in the door jamb boot for chafing or breaks
Test the window switch for continuity and proper operation
Measure voltage and ground at the window motor connector while operating the switch
Perform a resistance test on the motor and compare to specification
Check for mechanical binding by manually moving the window regulator
If all electrical and mechanical checks pass, diagnose or reprogram the BCM/door module

When the window motor is not the culprit

A common misdiagnosis is replacing the window motor when the actual fault is a broken wire in the door jamb boot, which flexes with every door opening and eventually fails internally.
The BCM may set B0500 if battery voltage is low during window operation, so always verify the charging system and battery condition before condemning components.
Some vehicles use a smart window motor with an integrated module that communicates over a data bus, and a loss of communication can set this code even if the motor still works.
Mechanical binding in the window track or regulator can increase current draw enough to trigger the code without any electrical fault, so always check for smooth operation by hand.
After repairs, the window may need recalibration or normalization through a scan tool or a manual procedure to restore auto-up/down features and clear the code.

Can I keep driving with B0500?

The vehicle remains safe to drive because the fault affects only the driver's window convenience function, but avoid operating the window repeatedly if it is stuck or making unusual noises. If the window is stuck open, cover it to prevent weather damage and secure the vehicle when parked.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.