B1996 Code - Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Battery Voltage
Quick Answer
The Restraints Control Module (RCM) monitors the Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag, Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag 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
- B1996 indicates Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Battery Voltage.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag, Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag 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.
Code B1996 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1996?
- Faulty Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag
- Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted
- Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)
How to Fix the DTC B1996?
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 B1996 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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Get the B1996 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- B1996 Ford — Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Battery Voltage
- B1996 Lincoln — Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Battery Voltage
- B1996 Mercury — Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Battery Voltage
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 B1996 Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B1996?
- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard and potential non-deployment of the passenger side airbag during an accident.
2. What does OBDII code B1996 indicate?
- OBDII code B1996 indicates a passenger side side mount airbag circuit short to battery voltage.
3. What are possible causes of OBDII code B1996?
- Possible causes include damaged wiring, a faulty airbag module, a malfunctioning airbag sensor, or a short circuit in the system.
4. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code B1996?
- Diagnosis involves using a scan tool to retrieve the specific code, inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the passenger side airbag, and testing the airbag sensor for proper functionality.
5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1996 present?
- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it may indicate a potential issue with the passenger side airbag system, affecting its performance in the event of a collision.
6. Can I reset OBDII code B1996 myself?
- While you can clear the code with a scan tool, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the fault code to prevent it from reoccurring.
7. How can I repair OBDII code B1996?
- Repair may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring, replacing the airbag module or sensor, and ensuring proper connections in the airbag system.
8. Are there any safety precautions to consider when working on OBDII code B1996?
- Safety precautions include disconnecting the vehicle's battery before working on the airbag system, following proper procedures outlined in the vehicle's service manual, and handling airbag components with care.
9. Can OBDII code B1996 be intermittent?
- Yes, the code may sometimes appear intermittently due to loose connections, which can make diagnosis and repair more challenging.
10. Should I seek professional help for OBDII code B1996?
- It is recommended to seek help from a qualified mechanic or technician with experience in airbag systems, as improper handling can lead to safety hazards.
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