AutoCodesGeneric – B1698

B1698 Code - Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete

Quick Answer

The Side Collision Sensor Left (LH) circuit is composed of the Center Airbag Sensor Assembly, Side Airbag Sensor Left, and Rear Airbag Sensor Left. Common causes include Faulty Side Airbag Sensor Left (LH), Side Airbag Sensor Left harness is open or shorted, Side Airbag Sensor Left 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
B1698 indicates Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Side Airbag Sensor Left (LH), Side Airbag Sensor Left harness is open or shorted, Side Airbag Sensor Left 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 14,542
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 13, 2022
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code B1698 Description

The Side Collision Sensor Left (LH) circuit is composed of the Center Airbag Sensor Assembly, Side Airbag Sensor Left, and Rear Airbag Sensor Left. The Side Airbag Sensor Left and Rear Airbag Sensor Left detect impacts to the vehicle and send signals to the Center Airbag Sensor Assembly to determine if the airbag should be deployed. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored when a malfunction is detected for the Side Collision Left circuit (to determine deployment of the Front Seat Side Airbag Assembly Left and Curtain Shield Airbag Assembly Left).
OBDII Code B1698 - Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete - AutoCodes.com
B1698 Code - Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1698?

  • Faulty Side Airbag Sensor Left (LH)
  • Side Airbag Sensor Left harness is open or shorted
  • Side Airbag Sensor Left circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Rear Airbag Sensor Left (LH)
  • Faulty Center Airbag Sensor Assembly

How to Fix the DTC B1698?

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 B1698 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 B1698 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1698 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1698 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

  • B1698 Ford — Mirror Driver/Passenger Switch Circuit Short To Ground
  • B1698 Lexus — Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete
  • B1698 Lincoln — Mirror Driver/Passenger Switch Circuit Short To Ground
  • B1698 Mercury — Mirror Driver/Passenger Switch Circuit Short To Ground
  • B1698 Scion — Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete
  • B1698 Toyota — Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete

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 B1698 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1698 - Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and a potential failure of the left side door airbag system.

2. What can cause the OBDII code B1698 to trigger?

- This code can be triggered by issues such as faulty door side airbag sensor left, wiring problems, or improper initialization of the sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B1698?

- To diagnose the cause of B1698, you can use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific trouble codes, inspect the wiring connections, and test the door side airbag sensor left for proper functionality.

4. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1698 present?

- It is not recommended to drive with this code present as it indicates a potential issue with the left side door airbag sensor, which may affect the proper deployment of the airbag in case of an accident.

5. Can I reset the OBDII code B1698 by disconnecting the battery?

- Disconnecting the battery may temporarily clear the code, but it is not a permanent solution. The underlying issue causing the code needs to be diagnosed and repaired to ensure the airbag system's proper function.

6. How can I repair OBDII code B1698 - Door Side Airbag Sensor Left Initialization Incomplete?

- Repairing this code typically involves checking and repairing any damaged wiring, replacing the faulty door side airbag sensor left, and ensuring proper initialization of the sensor.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B1698 at home?

- Depending on your skills and knowledge, you may be able to diagnose and repair this code at home. However, working with airbag systems can be dangerous, so it is recommended to seek professional help if you are unsure.

8. Will OBDII code B1698 prevent the airbag from deploying in an accident?

- The presence of this code indicates a potential issue with the left side door airbag sensor, which may affect the airbag's deployment. It is important to address this code promptly to ensure the airbag system's proper function.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B1698?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the underlying issue, the parts needed for replacement, and the labor charges. It is recommended to obtain quotes from different repair shops for an accurate estimate.

10. Can OBDII code B1698 affect the overall safety of the vehicle?

- Yes, this code can affect the overall safety of the vehicle as it indicates a potential issue with the left side door airbag sensor, which is a critical component of the vehicle's safety system.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B1698 OBDII Code

Code B1698 comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play