AutoCodes – RAM – B1C12 RAM

B1C12 RAM Code - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit Low

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: B1C12 RAM indicates Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit Low.
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 676

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
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1C12 RAM 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. 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 B1C12 RAM - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — B1C12 RAM Code - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C12 RAM?

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 B1C12 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 B1C12 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 B1C12 RAM code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C12 RAM code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1C12 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.

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 B1C12 RAM Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1C12 RAM related to the Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit Low?

- Common symptoms include the driver's active headrest not deploying properly or failing to move as intended.

2. What are some potential causes of OBDII code B1C12 RAM indicating a low driver active headrest control circuit?

- Possible causes may include damaged wiring or connectors in the headrest control circuit, a faulty headrest control module, or a malfunctioning headrest motor.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code B1C12 RAM for the driver active headrest control circuit?

- Diagnosis typically involves inspecting the wiring and connectors for any visible damage, testing the headrest control module, and checking the headrest motor for proper operation.

4. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1C12 RAM triggered by a low driver active headrest control circuit?

- It is generally not recommended to drive with this issue unresolved, as the active headrest may not function correctly in the event of a collision, potentially compromising safety.

5. Can I repair OBDII code B1C12 RAM myself, or should I seek professional assistance?

- Depending on your automotive repair skills and knowledge, you may attempt to check the wiring and connectors for damage. However, diagnosing and repairing electronic components like the headrest control module are best left to professionals.

6. Are there any specific tools or equipment required to address OBDII code B1C12 RAM regarding the driver active headrest control circuit?

- Diagnostic tools such as a multimeter or OBDII scanner may be helpful in diagnosing the issue, along with basic hand tools for inspecting and repairing wiring and connectors.

7. What are the typical repair options for resolving OBDII code B1C12 RAM related to the driver active headrest control circuit low?

- Repair options may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the headrest control module, or addressing any issues with the headrest motor.

8. How can I prevent OBDII code B1C12 RAM from recurring in the future after repairing the driver active headrest control circuit issue?

- Properly maintaining the active headrest system, ensuring all connections are secure, and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent the code from recurring in the future.

9. Is OBDII code B1C12 RAM related to the driver active headrest control circuit a common issue in certain vehicle makes or models?

- This code may be more prevalent in vehicles equipped with active headrest systems, but the specific occurrence can vary among different makes and models.

10. Can resetting the vehicle's computer system clear OBDII code B1C12 RAM triggered by a low driver active headrest control circuit?

- Resetting the computer system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue with the driver active headrest control circuit is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.