B1346 Chevrolet Code - Driver Front Airbag Resistance Too High
Quick Answer
When the ignition switch is turned to ON, the Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will perform turn-on test to diagnose critical malfunctions within SDM itself. Common causes include Faulty Driver Front Airbag, Driver Front Airbag harness is open or shorted, Driver Front Airbag 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
- B1346 Chevrolet indicates Driver Front Airbag Resistance Too High.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Driver Front Airbag, Driver Front Airbag harness is open or shorted, Driver Front Airbag 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.
Code B1346 Chevrolet Description
Upon passing these test ignition and deployment loop voltages are measured to ensure that they are within their normal voltage ranges. The SDM monitors the voltages at the driver low and the passenger low to detect shorts to ground or voltage in the deploy loops.
The SDM checks the wiring connection to the driver airbag module by letting the infinitesimal current flow through the internal circuit and verify the resistance.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1346 Chevrolet?
- Faulty Driver Front Airbag
- Driver Front Airbag harness is open or shorted
- Driver Front Airbag circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Clockspring
How to Fix the DTC B1346 Chevrolet?
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 B1346 Chevrolet 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 B1346 Chevrolet code?
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Need Help with the Code?
Get the B1346 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
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 B1346 Chevrolet Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1346 mean on a Chevrolet?
B1346 indicates "Driver Front Airbag Resistance Too High," meaning the airbag circuit has higher-than-normal electrical resistance, which can prevent proper airbag deployment.
2. What are the common symptoms of code B1346 in a Chevrolet?
The most common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated, and the driver’s airbag may not deploy in the event of a crash.
3. What causes the B1346 code to appear?
This code is typically caused by a damaged or corroded connector, a broken or frayed wire, a faulty clock spring, or an issue with the driver’s airbag module itself.
4. Is it safe to drive with the B1346 code active?
It is not safe, as the driver’s airbag may not deploy in a crash, increasing the risk of injury during an accident.
5. How do I diagnose the B1346 code on my Chevrolet?
Use an OBDII scanner capable of reading airbag codes, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and test the clock spring for continuity.
6. Can a loose connector cause the B1346 code?
Yes, a loose or improperly connected airbag harness connector can increase resistance and trigger this code.
7. How do I fix the B1346 code on a Chevrolet?
Repairs may include cleaning or reconnecting connectors, repairing damaged wires, replacing the clock spring, or replacing the driver airbag module if it’s defective.
8. How much does it cost to repair a B1346 code?
The cost depends on the specific issue, but repairs can range from $50 for fixing wiring to $500 or more if the airbag module or clock spring needs replacement.
9. Can I reset the code without fixing the issue?
You can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, but it will return if the underlying issue hasn’t been resolved.
10. Do I need a professional to fix the B1346 code?
While some repairs, like checking connectors, can be done by experienced DIYers, airbag systems are safety-critical, and professional diagnosis and repair are strongly recommended.
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