B1B13 RAM 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 RAM 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 RAM Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1B13 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 B1B13 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 B1B13 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 B1B13 RAM code?
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Need Help with the Code?
Get the B1B13 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about B1B13 RAM Code
What does the OBDII code B1B13 RAM mean?
The code B1B13 indicates a problem with the Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit, specifically that the circuit is shorted together.
What are the common symptoms of code B1B13?
Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential disabling of the driver knee airbag system.
What causes the B1B13 code to appear?
This code is typically caused by damaged wiring, a short circuit, defective connectors, or a malfunctioning driver knee bolster squib.
Is it safe to drive with code B1B13 active?
It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as the airbag system may fail to deploy properly in the event of an accident.
How can I diagnose the B1B13 code?
Diagnosis involves inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the resistance of the driver knee bolster squib, and using a scan tool to confirm the code.
What tools are needed to repair code B1B13?
You’ll need a diagnostic scan tool, a multimeter, and possibly replacement wiring or a new driver knee bolster squib.
Can I fix code B1B13 myself?
If you have the necessary tools and expertise in automotive electrical systems, you may be able to repair it. Otherwise, it's best to seek professional help.
What is a driver knee bolster squib?
The driver knee bolster squib is a component in the airbag system that helps trigger the deployment of the knee airbag.
How much does it cost to repair code B1B13?
Repair costs vary based on the extent of damage but can range from $100 to $500, depending on parts and labor.
Will resetting the code fix the problem?
Resetting the code may clear the warning temporarily, but the underlying issue must be repaired to prevent the code from reappearing.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B1B13 RAM OBDII Code
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