AutoCodes – Generic – B1210

B1210 Code - Side Collision Detection

Quick Answer

Detects component damage resulting from a side collision, brinks or illuminates the air bag warning lamp to inform the driver. Common causes include Faulty Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU), Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU) harness is open or shorted, Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU) 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: B1210 indicates Side Collision Detection.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU), Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU) harness is open or shorted, Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU) 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 25,558

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 Nov 19, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1210 Description

Detects component damage resulting from a side collision, brinks or illuminates the air bag warning lamp to inform the driver.
The side air bag and curtain air bag are operated by the decision of the Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU) signal of the side collision.
The Side Collision Detection consists of the satellite sensor, Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU), front side air bag and side curtain air bag.

OBDII Code B1210 - Side Collision Detection - AutoCodes.com — B1210 Code - Side Collision Detection

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1210?

Faulty Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU)
Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU) harness is open or shorted
Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B1210?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

After a side collision, all the deployed components and the Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU) must need to be replaced. If there is no collision, then the problem is with the Air Bag Diagnosis Sensor Unit (ACU)

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1210 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 B1210 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1210 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1210 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1210 Ford — EIC Switch Assembly Circuit Open
B1210 Infiniti — Side Collision Detection
B1210 Lincoln — EIC Switch Assembly Circuit Open
B1210 Mercury — EIC Switch Assembly Circuit Open
B1210 Nissan — Side Collision Detection

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 B1210 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection)?

- Common symptoms include the illumination of the airbag warning light on the dashboard and potential issues with the side collision detection system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection)?

- The code B1210 can be triggered by faulty side collision sensors, damaged wiring harnesses, or issues with the airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection) in my vehicle?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code and then conducting a detailed inspection of the side collision sensor system.

4. Can I reset OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection) without fixing the underlying issue?

- Resetting the code without addressing the root cause is not recommended, as the problem may persist and potentially compromise the safety features of your vehicle.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection)?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing damaged wiring, replacing faulty side collision sensors, or reprogramming the airbag control module as needed.

6. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection) present?

- It is not recommended to drive with the code active, as it indicates a potential issue with the side collision detection system, which is crucial for occupant safety in the event of a side impact.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection)?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, but it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate diagnosis and cost estimate.

8. Can OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection) be a false alarm?

- While false alarms are possible, it is important to investigate the code thoroughly to ensure the proper functioning of the side collision detection system.

9. Are there any recalls related to OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection)?

- It is advisable to check with the vehicle manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for any recalls related to this specific OBDII code.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code B1210 (Side Collision Detection) from reoccurring in the future?

- Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and addressing any issues related to the side collision detection system can help prevent the recurrence of OBDII code B1210.