OBD-II Body Error Code B0859: How to Fix It

Q: What does OBD-II error code B0859 mean?

Error code B0859 indicates a fault with the audio steering wheel control switches, meaning the buttons on your steering wheel that control radio volume, track selection, and audio modes are not communicating properly with the vehicle's audio system.

Q: Can I still drive my car with B0859 error code?

Yes, the B0859 error code is low severity and won't affect your vehicle's safety or drivability. You'll simply lose the convenience of controlling your audio system from the steering wheel buttons, but you can still use the radio and audio controls on the dashboard normally.

Q: How much does it cost to fix steering wheel audio controls?

Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause. Simple fixes like replacing a blown fuse cost under $5, while replacing the entire steering wheel control module can range from $100-400 including labor. Most issues are resolved with minor repairs or cleaning.

Q: Will B0859 cause my car to fail inspection?

No, the B0859 error code typically won't cause your vehicle to fail state inspection or emissions testing, as it's related to convenience features rather than safety or emissions systems. However, regulations vary by location, so check your local requirements.

Q: Why do steering wheel audio controls stop working?

Common causes include worn or contaminated control switches, blown fuses, damaged wiring in the steering column, loose electrical connections, or a faulty control module. Spilled liquids and normal wear over time are frequent culprits.

Abstract

Error code B0859 indicates a fault with your vehicle's audio steering wheel control switches, preventing proper communication between the steering wheel buttons and your car's audio system. This is typically a low-severity issue that won't affect vehicle safety but will disable convenient steering wheel audio controls like volume, track skip, and mode selection.