AutoCodes – Generic – B1C13

B1C13 Code - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit High

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: B1C13 indicates Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit High.
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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 4,741

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
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code B1C13 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) continuously communicates with the Driver Active Headrest over the Active Head Restraint 1st Row Driver Signal circuits. The Driver Active Headrest communication and on board diagnostics are powered by the ORC signal.

OBDII Code B1C13 - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — B1C13 Code - Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C13?

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 B1C13?

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 B1C13 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 B1C13 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C13 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1C13 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1C13 Chrysler — Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit High
B1C13 Dodge — Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit High
B1C13 Jeep — Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit High
B1C13 RAM — Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit High

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 B1C13 Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1C13 mean?

The B1C13 code indicates a high voltage issue in the Driver Active Headrest Control Circuit, which is part of the vehicle's safety system designed to reduce whiplash injuries.

2. What are the common symptoms of the B1C13 code?

Symptoms may include an illuminated airbag warning light, the active headrest not functioning properly, or no noticeable headrest movement during activation.

3. What causes the B1C13 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty active headrest actuator, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunctioning control module.

4. Is it safe to drive with the B1C13 code?

Driving may still be possible, but the active headrest safety feature may be compromised, increasing the risk of injury in a collision.

5. How can I diagnose the B1C13 code?

Start by using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, then inspect the wiring, connectors, and the active headrest actuator for damage or loose connections.

6. Can a weak battery cause the B1C13 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can sometimes cause electrical issues, including triggering this code, due to voltage irregularities.

7. What is the typical repair for the B1C13 code?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty headrest actuator, repairing damaged wiring, or reprogramming or replacing the control module.

8. How much does it cost to fix a B1C13 code?

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause, but replacing an active headrest actuator can range from $200 to $500, excluding labor.

9. Can I reset the B1C13 code without making repairs?

You can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, but if the underlying issue isnâ€™t resolved, the code will likely return.

10. What should I do if I canâ€™t fix the B1C13 code myself?

If youâ€™re unable to diagnose or repair the issue, itâ€™s best to consult a qualified mechanic or dealership with experience in vehicle safety systems.