B1049 Nissan Code - Driver Air Bag Module Open
Quick Answer
The driver air bag module is dual stage and wired to the air bag diagnosis sensor unit through the spiral cable. Common causes include Faulty Driver Air Bag, Faulty Spiral Cable, Driver Air Bag harness is open. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- B1049 Nissan indicates Driver Air Bag Module Open.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Driver Air Bag, Faulty Spiral Cable, Driver Air Bag harness is open.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Code B1049 Nissan Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1049 Nissan?
- Faulty Driver Air Bag
- Faulty Spiral Cable
- Driver Air Bag harness is open
- Driver Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC B1049 Nissan?
Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.
Code Tech Notes
1. Visually check the wiring harness connection.
2. Replace the harness if it has visible damage.
3. Replace the driver air bag module.
4. Replace the spiral cable.
5. Replace the air bag diagnosis sensor unit.
6. Replace the related harness.
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the B1049 Nissan code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.
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Information for Specific Nissan Models
- B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan — Driver Air Bag Module Open
Precautions for SRS “AIR BAG” and “SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONER” Service
- Never probe the electrical connectors on air bag, side air curtain modules or seat belts.
- Never disassemble or tamper with safety belt buckle/retractor pretensioners, adaptive load limiting retractors, safety belt inflators, or probe the electrical connectors.
- Do not use electrical test equipment to check SRS circuits unless instructed to in this Service Manual.
- Before servicing the SRS, turn ignition switch OFF, disconnect both battery cables and wait at least 3 minutes. For approximately 3 minutes after the cables are removed, it is still possible for the air bag and seat belt pre-tensioner to deploy. Therefore, do not work on any SRS connectors or wires until at least 3 minutes have passed.
Failure to follow this instruction may result in the accidental deployment of these modules, which increases the risk of serious personal injury or death.
Frequently Asked Questions about B1049 Nissan Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1049 indicate on a Nissan?
- The code B1049 indicates a problem with the driver airbag module, specifically that there is an open circuit detected in the airbag deployment system.
2. What are common symptoms of the B1049 code in a Nissan?
- Symptoms include the airbag warning light staying on, and potentially the driver's airbag not deploying in the event of an accident.
3. What can cause the B1049 code to appear in a Nissan?
- Common causes include a disconnected or damaged driver airbag module connector, broken wiring in the airbag circuit, or a faulty airbag module itself.
4. How can I diagnose the B1049 code in my Nissan?
- Diagnosing this code involves checking the airbag module connector for proper connection, inspecting the wiring for breaks or shorts, and possibly using a diagnostic scanner to monitor the airbag module's status.
5. What steps should I take to fix the B1049 code in a Nissan?
- Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors, ensure the airbag module is properly connected, and if the module itself is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
6. Is it safe to drive a Nissan with the B1049 code?
- Driving with this code is not recommended as it means the driver's airbag may not deploy in a crash, posing significant safety risks.
7. How urgent is it to address a B1049 code in a Nissan?
- It is quite urgent to address this issue as it directly affects the safety of the vehicle's occupants by compromising the airbag system.
8. Could the B1049 code affect other parts of my Nissan’s safety system?
- While the B1049 code specifically relates to the driver's airbag, unresolved issues in the airbag system can sometimes impact the overall performance of other safety features due to integrated vehicle safety systems.
9. What tools are necessary to diagnose and repair the B1049 code?
- Tools needed include a digital multimeter, a diagnostic scanner capable of interfacing with Nissan's airbag system, and basic hand tools for accessing and repairing wiring.
10. After repairing a B1049 code, how do I ensure the system is working correctly?
- After repairs, clear the code with an OBDII scanner, and then perform a system diagnostic check to ensure no further codes are present and the airbag system is functioning correctly. Regularly scheduled safety inspections are also advisable.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B1049 Nissan OBDII Code
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HELLO, We have a 2008 Nissan quest that had a b1049 code. Replaced airbag module on wheel. No codes present after resetting with my solus but airbag light still flashing. Anyone had this problem?
Joe -
Was your Quest on an accident? did you replaced the air bag control unit (aka "Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit")?
You may have to replace the spiral cable (clock spring) -
My 2008 Nissan qashqai airbag light is on, code b1049 driver airbag module open, came up when using a snap on solus pro code reader, is this going to be a costly fix for me to get this sorted?
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It depends what the problem is, but usually is the driver side air bag module. If the problem is the air bag module, it could cost you a few hundred dollars.
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I have a 2005 Nissan Murano SL and the same issue. The dealer has "reset" the system but it reappears blinking after a few hours. Any suggestions short of going to a dealership and paying $130 just for a diagnosis?
Thanks -
I took it into Nissan and they charged me $130 now am told it is a $1400 fix.
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Did they said you need a new air bag? or the spiral cable? Have them check the air bag warranty, some air bag have warranty for life.
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Thanks...Airbag module and spiral cable failure...replacement cost $1384
It doesn't sound like that is the actual airbag. Would those parts be covered by some warranty and if so, how do I find out? -
The best was is to contact:
Nissan Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 685003
Franklin, TN 37068-5003
Phone: (800) NISSAN-1 (or 800-647-7261) -
Not sure what the 13 blinks means. It's better if you check with an OBDII code scanner, the scanner it's more accurate.
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I had codes: B1049 & B1054 Driver Airbag Module Open (Short)
I Replaced Spyral Cable also known as "Clock Spring" (2009 Nissan Altima 2.5S)
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I had this code on 2007 Xterra. Replaced clockspring code came back on but cruise and horn now work. Replaced airbag light went off for one day then came back on w/ same code. Any ideas?
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Was your Xterra ever in an accident?
If you already replaced the clockspring and airbag, then, the other two things left are the airbag harness and air bag control unit. Unfortunately, with the air bag system you can't check voltage or grounds to the airbag components.
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