AutoCodes – Generic – B1B03

B1B03 Code - Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together

Quick Answer

When powered, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) sends a test current to the squibs to verify the integrity of the squib and wiring. Common causes include Faulty Driver Airbag Squib 1, Driver Airbag Squib 1 harness is open or shorted, Driver Airbag Squib 1 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: B1B03 indicates Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Driver Airbag Squib 1, Driver Airbag Squib 1 harness is open or shorted, Driver Airbag Squib 1 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 2,121

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 Aug 14, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1B03 Description

When powered, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) sends a test current to the squibs to verify the integrity of the squib and wiring. These circuits are maintained in a "floating" configuration at the module (connected to neither power nor ground) as protection against inadvertent deployment. The use of the SRS Load Tool Adapter provides a test point as well as a method for opening the shorting bar connections within the harness connector. The Clockspring is part of the Steering Column Control Module (SCCM). The SCCM includes the steering column shroud, the Steering Angle Sensor (SAS), the Clockspring, the Multi-function Switch, a Steering Column Power Tilt and Telescope Switch (if equipped), and a trim cover. The SCCM is replaced as an entire assembly. The ORC sends out a 40 mA diagnostic current on each squib voltage supply circuit at power up and every 500 ms thereafter while the ignition is on.

OBDII Code B1B03 - Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together - AutoCodes.com — B1B03 Code - Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1B03?

Faulty Driver Airbag Squib 1
Driver Airbag Squib 1 harness is open or shorted
Driver Airbag Squib 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Driver Airbag
Faulty Steering Comun Control Module (Clockspring)
Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)

How to Fix the DTC B1B03?

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 B1B03 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 B1B03 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1B03 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1B03 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1B03 Chrysler — Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together
B1B03 Dodge — Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together
B1B03 Jeep — Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together
B1B03 Mitsubishi — Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together
B1B03 RAM — Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together

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 B1B03 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1B03 (Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together)?

The common symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard, non-functioning driver airbag, and a diagnostic trouble code stored in the vehicle's system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1B03?

The code B1B03 indicates a short circuit in the driver airbag squib 1 circuit. The causes can include damaged wiring, a faulty clock spring, a defective airbag module, or a problem with the airbag squib itself.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to code B1B03?

Diagnosing the issue involves using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific code, inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the driver airbag system, and testing the components for continuity and proper functionality.

4. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1B03 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with code B1B03 present, as it indicates a potential issue with the driver airbag system. In the event of a collision, the airbag may not deploy as intended, compromising the safety of the driver.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B1B03?

Repairing code B1B03 involves identifying and addressing the root cause of the short circuit in the driver airbag squib 1 circuit. This may require repairing damaged wiring, replacing a faulty component, or resetting the airbag system after the issue is resolved.

6. Can I reset the OBDII code B1B03 on my own?

While you can clear the diagnostic trouble code using an OBDII scanner, it is important to address the underlying issue causing code B1B03 before resetting it. Simply clearing the code without fixing the problem may result in the code reappearing.

7. Are there any safety precautions to take when working on the driver airbag system related to code B1B03?

When working on the driver airbag system, it is crucial to disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait for the specified time before proceeding with any repairs. This helps prevent accidental airbag deployment, which can be dangerous.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1B03?

The cost of repairing code B1B03 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the labor rates of the repair shop. It is recommended to get a diagnosis from a qualified technician to determine the exact cost.

9. Can OBDII code B1B03 affect the functionality of other airbags in the vehicle?

While code B1B03 specifically relates to the driver airbag squib 1 circuit, it is possible that issues in the airbag system may affect the functionality of other airbags in the vehicle. It is important to address the problem promptly to ensure all airbags work as intended.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code B1B03 from occurring in the future?

To prevent code B1B03 from occurring in the future, it is essential to perform regular maintenance on the vehicle, avoid physical damage to the airbag system components, and address any warning lights or issues promptly to prevent further damage.