AutoCodesGeneric – B1908

B1908 Code - Short to Positive in Front Pretensioner Squib Left Circuit

Quick Answer

The Front Pretensioner Squib Left (LH) Circuit consists of the Center Airbag Sensor Assembly and Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left (LH). Common causes include Faulty Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left (LH) (Front Pretensioner Squib Left), Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left is open or shorted, Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left 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
B1908 indicates Short to Positive in Front Pretensioner Squib Left Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left (LH) (Front Pretensioner Squib Left), Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left is open or shorted, Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left 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 4,244
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Dec 07, 2022
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Code B1908 Description

The Front Pretensioner Squib Left (LH) Circuit consists of the Center Airbag Sensor Assembly and Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left (LH). This circuit instructs the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) to deploy when the deployment conditions are met. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is recorded when a malfunction is detected in the Front Pretensioner Squib Left Circuit.
OBDII Code B1908 - Short to Positive in Front Pretensioner Squib Left Circuit - AutoCodes.com
B1908 Code - Short to Positive in Front Pretensioner Squib Left Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1908?

  • Faulty Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left (LH) (Front Pretensioner Squib Left)
  • Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left is open or shorted
  • Front Seat Outer Belt Assembly Left poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Center Airbag Sensor Assembly

How to Fix the DTC B1908?

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 B1908 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 B1908 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1908 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1908 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

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 B1908 Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1908 mean?

The B1908 code indicates a "Short to Positive" issue in the front pretensioner squib left circuit, which is part of the vehicle's airbag and seatbelt safety system.

2. What are the common symptoms of the B1908 code?

The most common symptoms include the airbag warning light being illuminated, possible deactivation of the seatbelt pretensioner system, and no noticeable changes in vehicle performance.

3. What causes the B1908 code to appear?

The code is typically triggered by a short circuit to a positive voltage in the left front pretensioner squib wiring, damaged connectors, or a faulty pretensioner.

4. Is it safe to drive with the B1908 code present?

No, it is not safe to drive with this code active because it indicates a potential issue with the vehicle's safety restraint system, which may not function properly in an accident.

5. How can I diagnose the B1908 code?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the wiring and connectors in the left front pretensioner circuit for damage, checking for shorts to positive voltage, and testing the pretensioner with a multimeter.

6. What tools are needed to repair the B1908 code?

You may need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter, and basic hand tools to inspect, diagnose, and repair the wiring or pretensioner system.

7. Can I reset the airbag warning light after fixing the B1908 code?

Yes, you can reset the airbag warning light using an OBDII scanner, but only after confirming that the issue causing the code has been resolved.

8. How much does it cost to fix the B1908 code?

The repair cost varies depending on the issue, but it may range from $50 for simple wiring repairs to $300 or more if the pretensioner needs replacement.

9. Can a faulty airbag control module cause the B1908 code?

While less common, a malfunctioning airbag control module can sometimes lead to this code, especially if it misinterprets signals from the pretensioner circuit.

10. Should I attempt to repair the B1908 code myself?

If you are experienced with automotive electrical systems, you can attempt the repair. However, due to the safety-critical nature of the airbag system, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance.

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