AutoCodes – Generic – B1C11

B1C11 Code - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The Driver Active Headrest signal circuit is driven by a solenoid that also uses a diode in parallel. Common causes include Faulty Driver Active Headrest, Driver Active Headrest harness is open or shorted, Driver Active Headrest 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: B1C11 indicates Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Driver Active Headrest, Driver Active Headrest harness is open or shorted, Driver Active Headrest 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 5,999

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 24, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1C11 Description

The Driver Active Headrest signal circuit is driven by a solenoid that also uses a diode in parallel. The single electrical component of the Active Headrest (AHR) unit is the latch-release solenoid. The solenoid is connected by a 2 way pigtail wire and harness connector. The pigtail wire and 2 way connector are routed through the center of one of the headrest support posts and down through the guide sleeve to the interior of the seat back, where it connects to the seat wire harness. The solenoid is grounded at an independent dedicated ground. The AHR components itself cannot be repaired. If damaged or ineffective, the AHR must be replaced as a new assembly. If upon inspection the AHR has deployed it can be reset following the proper reset method. Also if the already deployed Driver or Passenger AHR are latched in the locked position please see the scan tool miscellaneous functions to set the latch in the unlock or deployed position. The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) monitors the Driver Active Headrest during the start up phase of the ORC module. The Driver Active Headrest communication and on board diagnostics are powered by the ORC signal.

OBDII Code B1C11 - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B1C11 Code - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C11?

Faulty Driver Active Headrest
Driver Active Headrest harness is open or shorted
Driver Active Headrest circuit poor electrical connection
Fault Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)

How to Fix the DTC B1C11?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B1C11-11 DRIVER ACTIVE HEADREST CONTROL CIRCUIT SHORT TO GROUND
B1C11-12 DRIVER ACTIVE HEADREST CONTROL CIRCUIT SHORT TO BATTERY
B1C11-13 DRIVER ACTIVE HEADREST CONTROL CIRCUIT OPEN

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1C11 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 B1C11 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C11 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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Get the B1C11 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1C11 Chrysler — Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit
B1C11 Dodge — Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit
B1C11 Ford — Passenger Left/Right Mirror Motor Circuit Short To Ground
B1C11 Jeep — Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit
B1C11 Lincoln — Passenger Left/Right Mirror Motor Circuit Short To Ground
B1C11 Mercury — Passenger Left/Right Mirror Motor Circuit Short To Ground
B1C11 RAM — Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit

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 B1C11 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1C11 (Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- Common symptoms of this code include the active headrest system not functioning properly, the headrest not moving when activated, or a warning light illuminated on the dashboard.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1C11?

- The code B1C11 can be triggered by issues such as a faulty driver active headrest control module, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunctioning headrest motor.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code B1C11 related to the driver active headrest control circuit?

- To diagnose this code, you may need to perform a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors, test the headrest motor, and use an OBDII scanner to retrieve specific diagnostic trouble codes.

4. Can I reset OBDII code B1C11 without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it is recommended to address the root cause of the problem to prevent the issue from reoccurring and ensure the proper functioning of the active headrest system.

5. How do I repair OBDII code B1C11 affecting the driver active headrest control circuit?

- Repairing this code may involve replacing the driver active headrest control module, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, ensuring proper connections, or replacing the headrest motor if necessary.

6. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1C11 present?

- It is generally safe to drive with this code, but it is important to address the issue promptly to ensure the active headrest system can function correctly in the event of a rear-end collision.

7. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code B1C11 at home?

- DIY tips may include checking the fuses related to the active headrest system, inspecting the wiring for any visible damage, and ensuring all connectors are securely fastened.

8. What should I do if I encounter OBDII code B1C11 intermittently?

- If the code appears intermittently, it is still important to diagnose and repair the issue to prevent potential failures of the driver active headrest system in the future.

9. Can a professional mechanic help with diagnosing and repairing OBDII code B1C11?

- Yes, a certified mechanic with experience in automotive diagnostics can assist in accurately diagnosing and repairing the driver active headrest control circuit related to code B1C11.

10. Is the repair for OBDII code B1C11 covered under warranty?

- Depending on the vehicle's warranty coverage and the specific circumstances, the repair for code B1C11 may be covered if the issue falls under the warranty terms and conditions.