AutoCodes – Generic – B1C17

B1C17 Code - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit

Quick Answer

The Passenger Active Headrest signal circuit is driven by a solenoid that also uses a diode in parallel. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Active Headrest, Passenger Active Headrest harness is open or shorted, Passenger 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: B1C17 indicates Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger Active Headrest, Passenger Active Headrest harness is open or shorted, Passenger 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 6,728

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 B1C17 Description

The Passenger 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 Passenger Active Headrest during the start up phase of the ORC module. The Passenger Active Headrest communication and on board diagnostics are powered by the ORC signal.

OBDII Code B1C17 - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B1C17 Code - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C17?

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

How to Fix the DTC B1C17?

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

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1C17 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 B1C17 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C17 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1C17 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1C17 Chrysler — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit
B1C17 Dodge — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit
B1C17 Jeep — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit
B1C17 RAM — Passenger 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 B1C17 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- The common symptoms include a warning light on the dashboard, inactive or malfunctioning active headrests, and potential issues with the headrest control system.

2. What are the potential causes of OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- The code B1C17 can be triggered by wiring problems, a faulty headrest control module, damaged connectors, or issues with the headrest motor or sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the headrest control module, and checking the functionality of the headrest motor and sensor.

4. Can I drive my vehicle with OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- It is generally safe to drive the vehicle with this code, but it's recommended to have the issue diagnosed and repaired promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the active headrest system.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- Repair options may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, connectors, the headrest control module, motor, or sensor, depending on the specific cause of the issue.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit) without repairs?

- Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the warning light, but the problem will likely reoccur until the root cause is fixed.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- Depending on the specific cause, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address the issue by following repair guides, but complex electrical problems may require professional diagnosis and repair.

8. Are there any safety concerns associated with OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- Malfunctioning active headrests can impact occupant safety during a collision, as they are designed to reduce the risk of whiplash injuries. It's important to address this code promptly.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit)?

- The cost of repair can vary widely depending on the specific cause of the issue, parts needed, labor rates, and whether the repair is done at a dealership or an independent repair shop.

10. Can OBDII code B1C17 (Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit) affect the overall performance of the vehicle?

- While the code itself may not affect the performance of the vehicle, addressing the underlying issue promptly is important to ensure the proper operation of the active headrest system and overall vehicle safety.