AutoCodes – Generic – B1C1A

B1C1A Code - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open

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: B1C1A indicates Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open.
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 1,523

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 B1C1A 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 B1C1A - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open - AutoCodes.com — B1C1A Code - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C1A?

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 B1C1A?

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 B1C1A 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 B1C1A code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C1A code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1C1A code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1C1A Chrysler — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open
B1C1A Dodge — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open
B1C1A Jeep — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open
B1C1A RAM — Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open

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 B1C1A Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1C1A mean?

The code B1C1A indicates an open circuit in the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit, which is part of the vehicle's safety system designed to reduce whiplash injuries in a collision.

2. What are the symptoms of code B1C1A?

Common symptoms include an illuminated airbag or SRS warning light, the passenger active headrest not deploying in a crash, or diagnostic trouble codes stored in the control module.

3. What causes the B1C1A code?

This code is typically caused by a damaged or disconnected wiring harness, a faulty active headrest actuator, or issues with the control module.

4. Can I drive with the B1C1A code active?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, the safety system may not function properly in a crash, so it is recommended to address the issue as soon as possible.

5. How is the B1C1A code diagnosed?

A technician will use a scan tool to read the code, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage or disconnection, and test the active headrest actuator for proper operation.

6. How can I fix the B1C1A code?

Repairs may include reconnecting or repairing damaged wiring, replacing a faulty active headrest actuator, or in rare cases, replacing the control module.

7. Can I reset the B1C1A code without repairing it?

You can clear the code with a scan tool, but it will likely return if the underlying issue is not resolved.

8. How much does it cost to fix the B1C1A code?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue but may range from $100 to $500, with actuator replacement being on the higher end.

9. Is the B1C1A code related to airbag deployment?

Yes, this code is part of the SRS system, and an unresolved issue could impact the proper deployment of safety features during a collision.

10. Can a low battery cause the B1C1A code?

While unlikely, low voltage can sometimes affect electronic systems. Itâ€™s recommended to check the battery and charging system if no other faults are found.