AutoCodes – Generic – B1196

B1196 Code - Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short

Quick Answer

The Air Bag Sensor Unit (Air Bag Control Module) monitors the Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module. Common causes include Faulty Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module harness is open or shorted, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module circuit poor electrical connection. 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: B1196 indicates Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module harness is open or shorted, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module circuit poor electrical connection.
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 3,018

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Feb 27, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1196 Description

The Air Bag Sensor Unit (Air Bag Control Module) monitors the Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module. The Air Bag Sensor Unit sets the OBDII code when the circuits for the front Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module are shorted to each other.

OBDII Code B1196 - Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short - AutoCodes.com — B1196 Code - Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1196?

Faulty Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module
Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module harness is open or shorted
Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Air Bag Sensor Unit (Air Bag Control Module)

How to Fix the DTC B1196?

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 B1196 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 B1196 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1196 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1196 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1196 Infiniti — Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short
B1196 Mazda — Driver Side Side Air Bag Sensor No.2 Circuit
B1196 Nissan — Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short

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 B1196 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B1196, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short?

The common symptoms of this code may include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential issues with the right side front curtain airbag system.

2. What are possible causes of OBDII code B1196, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short?

Possible causes of this code include wiring issues, a short circuit in the right side front curtain airbag module, a faulty airbag module, or a malfunction in the airbag system.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code B1196, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short?

Diagnosing this code typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the wiring and connections in the right side front curtain airbag system, and testing the airbag module for any shorts or malfunctions.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code B1196 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an active airbag fault code like B1196, as it may indicate a potential safety issue with the airbag system. It is best to address the problem promptly.

5. How can OBDII code B1196, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short be repaired?

Repairing this code may involve fixing any wiring issues, replacing the right side front curtain airbag module if necessary, clearing the fault code with a diagnostic tool, and performing a thorough system check to ensure proper functionality.

6. Are there any safety concerns associated with OBDII code B1196?

Yes, OBDII code B1196 indicates a potential issue with the right side front curtain airbag system, which could affect the proper deployment of the airbag in the event of a collision. It is important to address this code promptly to ensure the safety of the vehicle occupants.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B1196 at home?

While some aspects of diagnosing and repairing this code may be possible for experienced DIY enthusiasts, dealing with airbag systems can be complex and dangerous. It is recommended to seek professional assistance when dealing with airbag-related fault codes.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1196, Right Side Front Curtain Air Bag Module Short?

The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the underlying issue, the need for replacement parts, and labor costs. It is advisable to consult a mechanic or dealership for a more accurate estimate.

9. Will resetting the OBDII system clear the B1196 code?

Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the B1196 code, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear. It is important to diagnose and fix the root cause of the fault code.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code B1196 from recurring in the future?

Regular maintenance and inspections of the airbag system, prompt repairs of any wiring issues, and addressing any warning lights promptly can help prevent OBDII code B1196 from recurring in the future.