B1996 Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1996 Lincoln?
- 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 Lincoln?
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 Lincoln 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 B1996 Lincoln code?
Need more information on how to fix the B1996 Lincoln code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
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Get the B1996 Lincoln code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
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 Lincoln Code
What does the OBDII code B1996 mean on a Lincoln?
The B1996 code indicates a short to battery voltage in the passenger side side mount airbag circuit, which can affect the airbag's functionality.
What are the common symptoms of the B1996 code?
Symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light, potential deactivation of the passenger side airbag, and a stored diagnostic trouble code.
What causes the B1996 code to appear?
Common causes include damaged wiring, a short to battery voltage in the airbag circuit, a faulty airbag module, or a malfunctioning passenger side airbag.
Can I still drive my Lincoln with the B1996 code?
While the vehicle may still be drivable, the airbag system may not function correctly in an accident, posing a safety risk. It's best to address the issue promptly.
How do I diagnose the B1996 code?
Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, then use a multimeter to check for shorts in the circuit. A diagnostic scan tool can help pinpoint the issue.
What tools are needed to troubleshoot the B1996 code?
Basic tools include a multimeter, diagnostic scan tool, and potentially wiring diagrams for your Lincoln model to trace the circuit.
How is the B1996 code fixed?
Repairs may involve replacing damaged wiring, repairing connectors, or replacing a faulty airbag module or passenger side airbag.
Can a dead battery cause the B1996 code?
A dead battery is unlikely to cause the B1996 code, but improper jump-starting or electrical surges could potentially damage the airbag circuit.
Is the B1996 code specific to Lincolns?
While the code may appear on other vehicles, its specific meaning and affected components pertain to Lincoln models with side mount airbags.
What should I do if the airbag light stays on after repairs?
Clear the code with a diagnostic scan tool. If the light persists, double-check the repairs and inspect for any additional issues in the airbag system.
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