AutoCodes – Generic – B1B1A

B1B1A Code - Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open

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 Left Side Curtain Squib 1, Left Side Curtain Squib 1 harness is open or shorted, Left Side Curtain 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: B1B1A indicates Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Left Side Curtain Squib 1, Left Side Curtain Squib 1 harness is open or shorted, Left Side Curtain 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 3,680

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 B1B1A 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 Adapter Tool provides a test point as well as a method for opening the shorting bar connections within the harness connector. 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 B1B1A - Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open - AutoCodes.com — B1B1A Code - Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1B1A?

Faulty Left Side Curtain Squib 1
Left Side Curtain Squib 1 harness is open or shorted
Left Side Curtain Squib 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Left Side Curtain Airbag
Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)

How to Fix the DTC B1B1A?

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 B1B1A 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 B1B1A code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1B1A code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1B1A code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1B1A Chrysler — Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open
B1B1A Dodge — Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open
B1B1A Jeep — Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open
B1B1A Mitsubishi — Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open
B1B1A RAM — Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open

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 B1B1A Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1B1A (Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Open)?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, non-deployment of the left side curtain airbag during an accident, and potentially a diagnostic trouble code stored in the vehicle's computer system.

2. What causes the OBDII code B1B1A to appear?

- This code typically indicates an open circuit in the wiring or connector for the left side curtain airbag squib 1, which could be caused by wiring damage, a loose connection, or a faulty squib.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to code B1B1A?

- Diagnosis involves inspecting the wiring and connector for damage, checking the connection to the squib, and testing the squib itself for continuity using a multimeter. Professional diagnostic tools may be required for a thorough diagnosis.

4. What are the potential dangers of ignoring OBDII code B1B1A?

- Ignoring this code can lead to the left side curtain airbag not deploying properly in the event of an accident, which can compromise occupant safety and increase the risk of injury.

5. Can I repair OBDII code B1B1A on my own?

- While some enthusiasts may attempt to address this issue themselves, it is recommended to have a professional technician diagnose and repair the problem to ensure proper airbag system functionality and safety.

6. Are there any temporary fixes for OBDII code B1B1A?

- Temporary fixes are not recommended for safety-critical systems like airbags. It is best to address the underlying issue promptly to ensure the airbag system functions correctly in an emergency.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1B1A?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the underlying issue, the labor rates of the repair shop, and the cost of any replacement parts needed. It's advisable to obtain estimates from different shops.

8. Can I drive my vehicle with OBDII code B1B1A?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an unresolved airbag system issue like code B1B1A, as it can compromise occupant safety in the event of a collision.

9. How long does it usually take to repair OBDII code B1B1A?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the accessibility of the components. Some repairs may be relatively quick, while others may require more extensive troubleshooting.

10. Will resetting the OBDII system clear code B1B1A?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but it will likely reappear if the underlying issue causing the fault is not addressed. It's important to diagnose and fix the problem to ensure proper airbag system functionality.