B1B13 Code - Driver Knee Bolster Squib 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 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
- B1B13 indicates Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Shorted Together.
- 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 B1B13 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1B13?
- 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 B1B13?
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 B1B13 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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Information for Specific Makes
- B1B13 Chrysler — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Shorted Together
- B1B13 Dodge — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Shorted Together
- B1B13 Jeep — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Shorted Together
- B1B13 Mitsubishi — Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Shorted Together
- B1B13 RAM — Driver Knee Bolster Squib 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about B1B13 Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1B13 mean?
The B1B13 code indicates a problem with the driver's knee bolster squib circuit, specifically that it is shorted together.
2. What are the symptoms of code B1B13?
Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential deactivation of the driver’s knee airbag.
3. What causes the B1B13 code to appear?
Typical causes include damaged wiring, a short circuit in the knee bolster squib circuit, a faulty airbag control module, or a defective driver's knee airbag.
4. Is it safe to drive with the B1B13 code?
It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it may indicate that the airbags won’t deploy properly in an accident.
5. How can I diagnose the B1B13 code?
Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, testing the resistance of the driver's knee bolster squib, and checking for faults in the airbag control module.
6. Can a blown fuse cause the B1B13 code?
Yes, a blown airbag system fuse can contribute to this issue, as it may interrupt proper circuit operation.
7. What repairs are needed to fix the B1B13 code?
Repairs may include replacing damaged wiring, repairing or replacing connectors, replacing the driver’s knee airbag, or replacing the airbag control module.
8. How much does it cost to fix the B1B13 code?
The cost can vary widely depending on the exact repair but typically ranges from $100 for minor wiring fixes to over $1,000 if the airbag or control module needs replacement.
9. Can I reset the B1B13 code without repairs?
While you can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, it will likely return unless the underlying issue is fixed.
10. Who should repair the B1B13 code issue?
Airbag system repairs should be performed by a qualified mechanic or dealership technician due to the safety-critical nature of the components involved.
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