AutoCodesGeneric – B1B1B

B1B1B Code - Left Side Curtain Squib 1 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 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
B1B1B indicates Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,376
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 15, 2019
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Code B1B1B 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 B1B1B - Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together - AutoCodes.com
B1B1B Code - Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit Shorted Together

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1B1B?

  • 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 B1B1B?

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 B1B1B 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 B1B1B code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1B1B code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1B1B code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

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 B1B1B Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1B1B mean?

The B1B1B code indicates a problem with the Left Side Curtain Squib 1 Circuit, specifically that it is shorted together, affecting the airbag deployment system.

2. What are the symptoms of the B1B1B code?

Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and the potential for the left side curtain airbag to malfunction or not deploy during a collision.

3. What causes the B1B1B code to appear?

The code can be triggered by damaged wiring, corroded connectors, a short circuit in the airbag system, or a faulty left side curtain airbag squib.

4. Is it safe to drive with a B1B1B code?

It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it indicates a problem with the airbag system, which may not function correctly in an accident.

5. How do I diagnose the B1B1B code?

Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, visually inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and testing the squib circuit for proper resistance.

6. Can I fix the B1B1B code myself?

Repairs to the airbag system can be dangerous and should only be attempted by those with proper training, as accidental airbag deployment can cause injury.

7. How much does it cost to fix the B1B1B code?

Repair costs vary but may range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on whether wiring repairs, squib replacement, or professional diagnostics are needed.

8. What tools are needed to repair the B1B1B code?

Tools commonly used include an OBDII scanner, a multimeter to test electrical circuits, and safety equipment to handle airbag systems safely.

9. Can a dead battery cause the B1B1B code?

A dead or weak battery typically doesn’t cause this code, but improper voltage during start-up might trigger related issues in the airbag system.

10. Will clearing the B1B1B code fix the issue?

Simply clearing the code won’t resolve the underlying problem; the faulty component or wiring must be repaired to prevent the code from returning.

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