B1871 Ford Code - Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch Fault
Quick Answer
The Restraints Control Module (RCM) monitors status of Passenger Air Bag Deactivation (PAD) switch. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch, Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch harness is open or shorted, Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switchcircuit 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
- B1871 Ford indicates Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch Fault.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch, Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch harness is open or shorted, Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switchcircuit 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 B1871 Ford Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1871 Ford?
- Faulty Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch
- Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch harness is open or shorted
- Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switchcircuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)
How to Fix the DTC B1871 Ford?
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 B1871 Ford 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.
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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.
Frequently Asked Questions about B1871 Ford Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1871 mean on a Ford vehicle?
Code B1871 indicates a fault in the Passenger Air Bag Deactivation (PAD) switch circuit, which may prevent proper control of the passenger airbag system.
2. What are the common symptoms of code B1871 in a Ford?
Typical symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and the passenger airbag failing to activate or deactivate as intended.
3. What causes the B1871 Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch Fault?
Common causes include a faulty PAD switch, damaged wiring or connectors, or an issue with the airbag system control module.
4. Can I continue driving with the B1871 code active?
While the vehicle may still be drivable, the passenger airbag system may not function properly, which could pose a safety risk in the event of a collision.
5. How can I diagnose the B1871 code on my Ford?
Use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, then inspect the PAD switch, related wiring, and connectors for damage or poor connections.
6. Is the B1871 code specific to Ford vehicles?
While B1871 is a generic OBDII code, its meaning and troubleshooting steps may vary by manufacturer. On Ford vehicles, it specifically pertains to the PAD switch circuit.
7. How do I fix the B1871 Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch Fault?
Repairs may involve replacing the PAD switch, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the airbag control module if necessary.
8. How much does it cost to repair the B1871 code on a Ford?
Repair costs depend on the exact issue but typically range from $100 to $500, depending on whether the PAD switch or wiring needs replacement.
9. Can a faulty PAD switch cause the airbag warning light to stay on?
Yes, a malfunctioning PAD switch can trigger the airbag warning light due to a fault in the passenger airbag system.
10. Do I need to reset the OBDII system after fixing the B1871 code?
Yes, after completing repairs, use an OBDII scanner to clear the code and ensure the issue does not reoccur.
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