AutoCodes – RAM – B1B11 RAM

B1B11 RAM 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 RAM 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.

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Code Popularity 735

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 15, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1B11 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 Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Load Tool Adaptor provides a test point as well as a method for opening the shorting bar connections within the harness connector. The ORC Module 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 B1B11 RAM - Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — B1B11 RAM Code - Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1B11 RAM?

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 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 B1B11 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 B1B11 RAM code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1B11 RAM code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1B11 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 B1B11 RAM Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1B11 RAM titled Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit High?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, failure of the driver's knee airbag to deploy in a collision, and potential loss of communication with the airbag system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1B11 RAM?

- The code may be triggered by a faulty driver knee bolster squib circuit, a malfunctioning airbag control module, loose or damaged wiring connections, or a blown fuse related to the airbag system.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B1B11 RAM?

- Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the specific fault code, conducting a visual inspection of the airbag system components, checking wiring connections for damage or looseness, and testing the driver knee bolster squib circuit for continuity.

4. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1B11 RAM active?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an active airbag fault code like B1B11 RAM, as it indicates a potential issue with the driver's knee airbag system, which may compromise safety in the event of a collision.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B1B11 RAM?

- Repairing this code usually involves addressing the specific cause, which may include replacing a faulty driver knee bolster squib circuit, repairing damaged wiring, resetting the airbag control module, or replacing any defective components within the airbag system.

6. Can I reset OBDII code B1B11 RAM without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you may be able to clear the fault code temporarily with an OBDII scanner, resetting the code without addressing the root cause will not fix the underlying problem and may lead to the code reappearing in the future.

7. Are there any safety precautions to take when working on OBDII code B1B11 RAM?

- It is critical to disconnect the vehicle's battery before working on the airbag system to prevent accidental deployment, and it is recommended to consult a professional or refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific safety procedures.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code B1B11 RAM, or should I seek professional help?

- While some simple repairs like checking and securing wiring connections can be done by a DIY enthusiast, diagnosing and repairing more complex issues related to the airbag system, especially with code B1B11 RAM, is best left to certified professionals due to safety concerns.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1B11 RAM at a repair shop?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the specific cause, but it may include diagnostic fees, replacement parts, labor costs, and any additional services needed to rectify the issue. It is advisable to obtain a detailed estimate from a reputable repair shop.

10. Can OBDII code B1B11 RAM be triggered by a temporary issue, or does it indicate a persistent problem?

- OBDII code B1B11 RAM typically indicates a persistent problem within the driver knee bolster squib circuit or airbag system. While intermittent faults can occur, it is crucial to address the code promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the airbag system.