AutoCodes – RAM – B1B03 RAM

B1B03 RAM 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 RAM 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 681

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1B03 RAM?

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 RAM?

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 RAM 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 RAM code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1B03 RAM 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.

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 RAM Code

1. What does OBDII code B1B03 mean?

Code B1B03 indicates a problem with the Driver Airbag Squib 1 Circuit, specifically that the circuit is shorted together.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B1B03?

Symptoms may include the airbag warning light being illuminated on the dashboard and potential deactivation of the driver airbag system.

3. What causes the B1B03 code to appear?

Common causes include damaged wiring, corroded or loose connectors, a faulty clock spring, or a defective airbag control module.

4. Is it safe to drive with a B1B03 code?

No, it is not safe to drive with this code active because the driver airbag system may not deploy in the event of a collision.

5. How can I diagnose the B1B03 code?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the airbag circuit wiring, connectors, and clock spring for damage or corrosion, as well as using a scan tool to confirm the fault.

6. Can a faulty clock spring cause code B1B03?

Yes, a damaged or worn clock spring can cause a short in the airbag squib circuit and trigger this code.

7. How do I fix the B1B03 code?

Repairs may include replacing damaged wiring, securing loose connectors, replacing the clock spring, or repairing/replacing the airbag control module.

8. Will resetting the code fix the issue?

No, resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will likely result in the code returning.

9. How much does it cost to repair a B1B03 code?

Repair costs can vary widely, ranging from $100 for minor wiring repairs to over $500 if a clock spring or airbag module needs replacement.

10. Can I fix the B1B03 code myself?

Only attempt repairs if you have experience working with airbag systems, as improper handling can be dangerous. Otherwise, seek professional assistance.