AutoCodes – Generic – B1890

B1890 Code - PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery

Quick Answer

When the ignition is in the ON position, the Passenger Air Bag Deactivation (PAD) indicator prove-out period is initiated by the Restraints Control Module (RCM). Common causes include Faulty Passenger Air Bag Deactivation (PAD) Warning Lamp, PAD Warning Lamp harness is open or shorted, PAD Warning Lamp 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: B1890 indicates PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger Air Bag Deactivation (PAD) Warning Lamp, PAD Warning Lamp harness is open or shorted, PAD Warning Lamp 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 9,763

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 Jul 12, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1890 Description

When the ignition is in the ON position, the Passenger Air Bag Deactivation (PAD) indicator prove-out period is initiated by the Restraints Control Module (RCM). The RCM briefly activates the PAD indicator to verify the occupants correct functional operation of the PAD indicator. For additional information, refer to Air Bag and Safety Belt Pretensioner Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). If the RCM detects an open or short to ground on the PAD indicator circuit, it will store the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1890 in memory and illuminate the air bag warning indicator.

OBDII Code B1890 - PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery - AutoCodes.com — B1890 Code - PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1890?

Faulty Passenger Air Bag Deactivation (PAD) Warning Lamp
PAD Warning Lamp harness is open or shorted
PAD Warning Lamp circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)

How to Fix the DTC B1890?

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 B1890 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 B1890 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1890 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1890 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1890 Ford — PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery
B1890 Lincoln — PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery
B1890 Mazda — PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery
B1890 Mercury — PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery

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 B1890 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1890 (PAD Warning Lamp Circuit Short to Battery)?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and potential issues with the passenger airbag system.

2. What can cause the OBDII code B1890 to appear?

The code B1890 usually appears due to a short circuit in the Passenger Airbag Deactivation (PAD) warning lamp circuit that causes it to be shorted to the battery.

3. How serious is the OBDII code B1890?

The code B1890 indicates a problem with the PAD warning lamp circuit, which can affect the proper functioning of the passenger airbag system. It is important to address this issue promptly for safety reasons.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B1890?

Diagnosing the code B1890 typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the fault codes, followed by inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the PAD warning lamp circuit for any signs of damage or short circuits.

5. What are the possible repair options for OBDII code B1890?

Repair options for code B1890 may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, fixing faulty connectors, or replacing the Passenger Airbag Deactivation warning lamp if necessary.

6. Can I continue driving with the OBDII code B1890 present?

It is not recommended to continue driving with the code B1890 present, as it indicates a potential issue with the passenger airbag system that could compromise safety in the event of an accident.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1890?

The cost of repairing the OBDII code B1890 can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific repairs needed. It is advisable to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.

8. Are there any DIY fixes for the OBDII code B1890?

DIY fixes for the code B1890 may include checking and securing the wiring and connectors related to the PAD warning lamp circuit. However, it is recommended to have the issue properly diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

9. Can the OBDII code B1890 be reset without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code B1890 without fixing the underlying issue will only temporarily clear the fault code. The issue causing the code to appear will need to be addressed to prevent it from reoccurring.

10. How long does it typically take to repair the OBDII code B1890?

The repair time for the OBDII code B1890 can vary depending on the specific repairs needed and the availability of parts. It is best to consult with a mechanic to get an estimate of the repair time.