P1515 on 2019-2020 Jeep Compass: BCM Software Fault and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2018-2020 Jeep COMPASS

While a P1515 code on other manufacturers like GM or Ford often points to a problem with the electronic throttle body, this is not the case for the Jeep Compass. On specific 2019 Compass models with the 2.0L Diesel engine, Jeep has identified that this code is erroneously set due to a software issue within the Body Control Module (BCM). The fix is not a physical part replacement, but a software reflash covered by a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 08-015-20 REV. B). The TSB also covers other seemingly unrelated electrical gremlins, confirming it's a broader BCM software problem.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Lamp or MIL) is on.
• Vehicle may not restart during an Engine Stop/Start (ESS) event, requiring a full ignition cycle.
• A no-start or crank-no-start condition, sometimes accompanied by a dash message to "press brake and push ignition button to start&q 🎬 Watch: Diagnostic steps for a Jeep Compass crank-no-start conditionuot;.
• May be accompanied by other electrical issues like a malfunctioning park assist LED, inoperative rain-sensing wipers after an ESS event, or random Vehicle Theft Alarm (VTA) triggers.

Most Likely Causes

1. Body Control Module (BCM) Software Requires Update 🔴 High Probability → Shop Body Control Module A specific batch of 2019 models with the 2.0L Diesel engine (sales code EBT), designated as 'M6', are known to have a software bug that incorrectly triggers this code. Jeep issued TSB 08-015-20 REV. B to address this. The 'M6' designation refers to the Indian-built, right-hand-drive models exported to various markets.
   How to confirm: A Jeep dealer can verify if the vehicle's VIN falls within the specified build dates (built on or before August 05, 2019) and if the TSB/RRT 20-040 has been applied.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming the BCM with the latest software version using the wiTECH diagnostic tool. This is covered under warranty and as a Rapid Response Transmittal (RRT).
   Est. part cost: $0
2. Faulty Relay ('R1') ⚪ Low Probability For vehicles outside the TSB scope, or if the software update doesn't resolve the issue, a physical relay failure is possible due to normal wear, moisture, or corrosion. On some Compass models, relay blocks are in poor locations (like the wheel well) and are prone to moisture damage.
   How to confirm: Locate the specific 'R1' relay in the fuse/relay box (consult a service manual or fuse diagram for the exact location). Test its operation using a multimeter or by swapping it with a known-good relay of the same type. Visually inspect the relay and its socket for green or white corrosion.
   Typical fix: Replace the faulty relay. If the socket is corroded, it may need to be cleaned or the wiring repaired.
   Est. part cost: $15-$40
3. Wiring Harness Short Circuit ⚪ Low Probability Damage to the wiring harness from chafing, melting, or rodent damage can cause the 'Vsensing' circuit to short to a power source, triggering the code.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness connected to the BCM and the relay box for any signs of damage. Use a multimeter to check for a short to power on the relevant circuit at the BCM connector.
   Typical fix: Repair or replace the damaged section of the wiring harness. This can be complex and may require a professional.
   Est. part cost: $5-$100

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Body Control Module (BCM): → Shop Body Control Module

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check the vehicle's year, model, and engine. Specifically, confirm if it is a 2019 Jeep Compass with the 2.0L I4 Turbo Diesel engine.
2. Contact a Jeep dealership or use an online VIN checker to see if Technical Service Bulletin 08-015-20 REV. B (also RRT 20-040) applies to your vehicle and has not yet been completed.
3. If the TSB is open for your VIN, the diagnosis is complete. The BCM requires a software update at the dealership, which should be performed under warranty or as part of the RRT.
4. If the TSB does not apply or has already been performed, proceed with electrical diagnosis.
5. Locate the main fuse and relay center (Power Distribution Center) in the engine bay. Consult the owner's manual or a fuse diagram to identify the relay designated 'R1'.
6. Visually inspect the R1 relay and its socket for any signs of corrosion, which can appear as green or white powder.
7. Test the relay's function. Swap it with an identical relay from a non-critical system (like the horn) and see if the code clears and stays cleared after a drive cycle.
8. If the relay is good, inspect the wiring harness for the 'Vsensing' circuit between the relay socket and the BCM. Check for any visible damage, chafing against the chassis, or melting.
9. Using a multimeter and a wiring diagram, check for a short to voltage on the 'Vsensing' wire at the BCM connector. This is an advanced step best left to a professional.
10. If all else fails, the BCM itself may be faulty, requiring replacement and programming.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Body Control Module (BCM) Software Update — This is the official and most common fix for the issue on affected 2019 models as per Jeep's own service bulletin.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (dealership service)
  OEM price range: $0-$200
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• Automotive Relay (OEM #56029766AC (example Mopar relay, confirm specific part for 'R1')) — If the issue is not software-related, a failed 'R1' relay is the next most likely hardware cause, especially on vehicles outside the TSB scope.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Standard Motor Products, Bosch, Hella
  OEM price range: $25-$50
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$40

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• B25C9 — This code for 'Driver Door Ajar Switch 2 Stuck Closed' is also mentioned in TSB 08-015-20 REV. B and is resolved by the same BCM software update.
• P26E4-64 — 'Starter Control 2 Circuit-Signal Plausibility Failure' is another code listed in the TSB. The presence of both P1515 and P26E4-64 is specifically linked to a potential no-start condition.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 08-015-20 REV. B: Flash: Body Control Module (BCM) Updates. This TSB provides the software update needed to fix the false P1515 code on specific 2019 Compass models. It also addresses codes B25C9, P26E4-64 and a list of other electrical symptoms.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A software anomaly in the Body Control Module of 2019 Jeep Compass models (M6 designation) with the 2.0L Diesel engine can cause the P1515 code to be set incorrectly. This was addressed by Jeep via TSB 08-015-20 REV. B.
• The 'M6' designation refers to the model assembled at the Ranjangaon, India plant, which produces right-hand drive versions for India and many export markets.
• Owners on forums for Indian-market Jeeps (Team-BHP) frequently discuss electrical issues and breakdown experiences, though none specifically cite P1515, the context of electrical gremlins is relevant.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Battery Voltage During BCM Flash — expected: Maintain between 13.2V and 13.5V. Failure: Dropping below 13.2V or exceeding 13.5V can interrupt or corrupt the flash process.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH: Reprogram the BCM with the latest available software. — This is the primary repair step when TSB 08-015-20 REV. B applies. It is found under the standard flash procedure for the BCM module.
• wiTECH: Clear all DTCs — This function is automatically presented after a successful flash and must be performed to clear codes set in other modules during the reprogramming.
• wiTECH: Restore BCM Proxi Configuration / Proxi Configuration Alignment — If the BCM is replaced or if communication issues persist after a flash, a Proxi alignment may be required to ensure all modules on the vehicle network are correctly configured and communicating with the new BCM software. This is found under the 'Vehicle Preparations' tab.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Engine Compartment Fuse Box (Power Distribution Unit) — Located in the engine bay, on the driver's side (left side), near the 12V battery and behind the windshield washer fluid filler tube.. This box contains the physical relays for the vehicle, including the 'R1' relay implicated by the P1515 code definition. Physical inspection, testing, or swapping of the relay occurs here.
• Interior Fuse Box — Located in the passenger compartment, under the dashboard on the driver's side.. This fuse box contains fuses that supply power to the Body Control Module (BCM) and other interior electronics. A loss of power here could cause various BCM-related issues.
• Rear Cargo Fuse/Relay Distribution Unit — Located in the left rear panel of the cargo area; may consist of one or two units.. This unit powers rear body functions. While less likely to be directly related to P1515, it is part of the overall BCM-controlled electrical system.
• BCM (Body Control Module) — The BCM is typically located under the dashboard, often integrated with or near the interior fuse box. It serves as the central hub for body electronics and as a gateway for CAN bus networks.. The BCM is the module that sets code P1515. All diagnostic paths, whether software (flashing) or hardware (wiring, relays), originate from or lead to the BCM.