AutoCodesKIA – B1490 KIA

B1490 KIA Code - Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor Defect

Quick Answer

The passenger occupant classification system consists of the Supplemental Restraints System Control Module (SRSCM) and the Occupant Classification (OC) Module. Common causes include Faulty Occupant Classification (OC) Module, Occupant Classification (OC) Module harness is open or shorted, Occupant Classification (OC) 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
B1490 KIA indicates Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor Defect.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Occupant Classification (OC) Module, Occupant Classification (OC) Module harness is open or shorted, Occupant Classification (OC) 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 13,551
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 14, 2019
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Code B1490 KIA Description

The passenger occupant classification system consists of the Supplemental Restraints System Control Module (SRSCM) and the Occupant Classification (OC) Module. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is recorded when a defect or communication error of the OC Module is detected in the OC Module circuit.
OBDII Code B1490 KIA - Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor Defect - AutoCodes.com
B1490 KIA Code - Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor Defect

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1490 KIA?

  • Faulty Occupant Classification (OC) Module
  • Occupant Classification (OC) Module harness is open or shorted
  • Occupant Classification (OC) Module circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Supplemental Restraints System Control Module (SRSCM)

How to Fix the DTC B1490 KIA?

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 B1490 KIA 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 B1490 KIA code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1490 KIA code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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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 B1490 KIA Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1490 KIA indicate?

This code indicates a fault in the Passenger Occupant Classification Sensor, which is part of the system that detects the presence and position of a passenger in the front seat to control airbag deployment.

2. What are common symptoms of the OBDII code B1490 KIA?

Symptoms may include the airbag warning light staying illuminated, incorrect airbag deployment decisions, or the passenger airbag being deactivated regardless of whether the seat is occupied.

3. What can cause the B1490 KIA code to appear?

Possible causes include issues such as a malfunctioning passenger occupant classification sensor, damaged sensor wiring, or a problem with the sensor's connection.

4. How is the B1490 KIA code diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the fault code and checking the passenger occupant classification system with specialized diagnostic tools. Visual inspection of the sensor and wiring is also common.

5. What steps are involved in repairing the B1490 KIA code?

Repair may involve replacing the faulty occupant classification sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or ensuring secure connections in the sensor circuit.

6. Can I drive my KIA with the B1490 code active?

While you can technically still drive, it's not recommended as the airbag system may not function correctly, posing a risk in the event of an accident.

7. How urgent is it to fix a B1490 KIA code?

It is quite urgent to address this issue due to the safety implications related to potential airbag malfunction during accidents.

8. Is it common for the B1490 KIA code to be triggered by an electrical fault?

Yes, electrical issues such as loose connections, corrosion at the connectors, or frayed wiring can often trigger this error code.

9. What impact does the B1490 KIA code have on the airbag system?

This code can lead to improper functioning of the airbag system, potentially preventing the airbag from deploying in a crash or causing it to deploy when it's not necessary.

10. Can resetting the OBDII clear the B1490 KIA code permanently?

Resetting the OBDII system can clear the code temporarily, but without addressing the underlying issue, the code is likely to return.

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