AutoCodes – Generic – B1C18

B1C18 Code - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Low

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: B1C18 indicates Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Low.
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 2,694

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 B1C18 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.

OBDII Code B1C18 - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — B1C18 Code - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C18?

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 B1C18?

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 B1C18 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 B1C18 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C18 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1C18 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1C18 Chrysler — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Low
B1C18 Dodge — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Low
B1C18 Jeep — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Low
B1C18 RAM — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Low

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 B1C18 Code

1. What does OBDII code B1C18 mean?

Code B1C18 indicates a problem with the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit, specifically that the circuit voltage is lower than expected.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B1C18?

Typical symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light, failure of the active headrest system to deploy properly, and potential passenger safety risks in a collision.

3. What causes the B1C18 code?

The most common causes are damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, a malfunctioning active headrest control module, or a faulty passenger headrest actuator.

4. Can I drive with the B1C18 code?

While the vehicle may be drivable, the active headrest system may not function correctly in an accident, compromising passenger safety. Itâ€™s important to address the issue promptly.

5. How do I diagnose the B1C18 code?

Begin by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, then test the voltage and continuity in the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit. A scan tool can also help pinpoint the fault.

6. How can I fix the B1C18 code?

Repairs may involve replacing damaged wires, cleaning corroded connectors, repairing or replacing the active headrest control module, or replacing the passenger headrest actuator.

7. Is a faulty active headrest actuator a common issue with B1C18?

Yes, a malfunctioning or stuck passenger headrest actuator is a frequent cause of this code and should be tested during diagnosis.

8. How much does it cost to fix the B1C18 code?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue, ranging from $50 to $300 for wiring repairs, and up to $1,000 if the headrest actuator or control module needs replacement.

9. Can a low battery cause the B1C18 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can lead to low voltage in the circuit, potentially triggering the B1C18 code. Ensure the battery and charging system are in good condition.

10. Do I need a professional mechanic to fix the B1C18 code?

While basic inspections can be done at home, diagnosing and repairing electrical or module-related issues often requires specialized tools and expertise, so consulting a professional is recommended.