B1B11 Code - Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High
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 Knee Bolster Squib, Driver Knee Bolster Squib harness is open or shorted, Driver Knee Bolster Squib 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
- B1B11 indicates Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Driver Knee Bolster Squib, Driver Knee Bolster Squib harness is open or shorted, Driver Knee Bolster Squib 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 B1B11 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1B11?
- Faulty Driver Knee Bolster Squib
- Driver Knee Bolster Squib harness is open or shorted
- Driver Knee Bolster Squib circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Driver Knee Bolster Airbag
- Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
How to Fix the DTC B1B11?
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 B1B11 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 B1B11 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- B1B11 Chrysler — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High
- B1B11 Dodge — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High
- B1B11 Jeep — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High
- B1B11 Mitsubishi — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High
- B1B11 RAM — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High
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 B1B11 Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1B11 mean?
B1B11 refers to a high resistance or open circuit in the driver knee bolster squib circuit, which is part of the airbag system.
2. What are the common symptoms of code B1B11?
The most common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and the airbag system being disabled.
3. What causes the B1B11 code to appear?
This code can be caused by damaged wiring, a faulty knee bolster squib, poor electrical connections, or a malfunctioning airbag control module.
4. Can I drive my car with the B1B11 code active?
While the car may still be drivable, the airbag system may not function properly in the event of a collision, posing a significant safety risk.
5. How is the B1B11 code diagnosed?
A technician will use a diagnostic scan tool to read the code, inspect the knee bolster squib circuit, check for damaged wiring or loose connections, and test the airbag control module.
6. How do you fix a B1B11 code?
Repairs usually involve replacing damaged wiring, fixing poor connections, or replacing a faulty knee bolster squib or airbag control module.
7. Can I reset the B1B11 code without fixing the problem?
Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will likely result in the code reappearing, and the airbag system will remain compromised.
8. What tools are needed to diagnose and repair the B1B11 code?
You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing circuits, and possibly specialized tools to safely work on the airbag system.
9. Is the B1B11 code covered under warranty?
Airbag system issues may be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, depending on your vehicle’s age and mileage. Check with your dealer for specifics.
10. Can a faulty clock spring cause the B1B11 code?
Yes, a damaged clock spring in the steering column can disrupt the airbag circuit and potentially trigger the B1B11 code.
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