Mr. Kilmer, I have a 99 Ranger with the battery light display on the dash. Initially it came on & eventually went away, but it seems permanent now. Hooked OBD scanner & read B1359, B1840, & P0500. Although it's over 3 years old, the battery seems fine at 12.94v non-running & 14.41v running so I know the alternator still works. It runs & drives just fine for now. I'm just concerned it just might not all of a sudden. Researching online, could it just be a faulty ignition switch or is it just because of the cold weather & it'll go away on it's own eventually when it's warmer? Is there a simple way to test without having to tear it out during this frigid weather?
Also, could someone please answer the transmission code problem in 350z that I posted as well? Appreciate it. Thanks.
Start with load testing the battery and alternator.
Step #1 for all electrical problems: Check fuses & relays
P0500
Next, visually inspect all wiring and connectors that lead to the speed sensor. Look closely for any chafing, bare wires, broken wires, melted, or otherwise damaged areas. Repair as required. The location of the sensor depends on your vehicle. The sensor could be on the rear axle, transmission, or perhaps the wheel hub (brake) assembly. If the wiring and connectors are OK, then check the voltage at the speed sensor. Again, the exact procedure will depend on your make and model of vehicle. If everything looks OK, replace the sensor.
https://www.obd-codes.com/p0500
You'll have to dig up some schematics to troubleshoot the electrical problems, and use a multimeter to probe the wires.
B1359 code possible causes
- Faulty Ignition Switch
- Ignition Switch harness is open or shorted
- Ignition Switch circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Smart Junction Box (SJB)
B1840 code possible causes
- Faulty Wiper Front Power Motor
- Wiper Front Power Motor harness is open or shorted
- Wiper Front Power Motor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)
