AutoCodesGeneric – B1056

B1056 Code - Driver Air Bag Module Short

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 shorted. 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
B1056 indicates Driver Air Bag Module Short.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Driver Air Bag, Faulty Spiral Cable, Driver Air Bag harness is shorted.
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.
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Code Popularity 5,386
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 18, 2024
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Code B1056 Description

The driver air bag module is dual stage and wired to the air bag diagnosis sensor unit through the spiral cable. The air bag diagnosis sensor unit will monitor for opens and shorts in detected lines to the driver air bag module including the spiral cable. In case of frontal collision whose acceleration exceeds the specified level, the ignition materials are ignited by the electric ignition system. The system burns and introduces the chemical reaction of gas generating materials to generate hot gases that flow into the air bag through a filter and expand the bag.
OBDII Code B1056 - Driver Air Bag Module Short - AutoCodes.com
B1056 Code - Driver Air Bag Module Short

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1056?

  • Faulty Driver Air Bag
  • Faulty Spiral Cable
  • Driver Air Bag harness is shorted
  • Driver Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B1056?

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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1056 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.

Need more information about the B1056 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1056 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1056 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

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.

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B1056 Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1056 mean?

B1056 indicates a short circuit in the driver airbag module wiring, which can prevent the airbag from deploying properly in the event of an accident.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B1056?

The most common symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard and potentially disabled airbag functionality.

3. What causes the B1056 code to appear?

This code is typically caused by damaged, frayed, or shorted wiring in the driver airbag circuit, a faulty driver airbag module, or a malfunctioning clock spring.

4. Is it safe to drive with a B1056 code?

It is not safe to drive with this code as the driver airbag may not deploy in an accident, compromising occupant safety.

5. How is the B1056 code diagnosed?

A technician will use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspect the airbag module wiring for damage, and test the clock spring and connectors for continuity and proper operation.

6. Can a faulty clock spring cause the B1056 code?

Yes, a damaged or worn-out clock spring can cause a short in the driver airbag circuit, triggering the B1056 code.

7. How can I fix the B1056 code?

Repairs may involve fixing or replacing damaged wiring, replacing the clock spring, or, in some cases, replacing the driver airbag module.

8. Can I clear the B1056 code without fixing the issue?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the warning light, but the problem will persist, and the code will likely return.

9. How much does it cost to repair a B1056 code?

Repair costs vary depending on the cause, but replacing a clock spring typically costs $100–$300, while airbag module repairs can range from $500–$1,000 or more.

10. Can a DIYer fix the B1056 code?

While experienced DIYers might handle basic wiring repairs, airbag system work is highly sensitive and should generally be performed by a professional to ensure safety.

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