AutoCodes – RAM – B1C1A RAM

B1C1A RAM 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 RAM 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 735

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 26, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1C1A RAM 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 RAM - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open - AutoCodes.com — B1C1A RAM Code - Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C1A RAM?

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 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 B1C1A 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.

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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 RAM Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1C1A RAM related to the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open?

- Common symptoms include the passenger headrest not deploying properly during a collision, the airbag warning light being illuminated on the dashboard, and potential loss of active headrest safety feature.

2. What are the possible causes of the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open fault code B1C1A RAM?

- The code may be triggered by a damaged wiring harness, a faulty headrest control module, a disconnected electrical connector, or a blown fuse related to the active headrest system.

3. How can I diagnose the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open issue associated with OBDII code B1C1A RAM?

- Diagnosis typically involves visually inspecting the wiring harness and connectors for any visible damage, testing the continuity of the wiring, and using a scan tool to retrieve specific trouble codes from the headrest control module.

4. Can I drive my vehicle with the B1C1A RAM code indicating a Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open problem?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it may compromise the effectiveness of the active headrest system and pose a safety risk in the event of a collision.

5. How can I repair the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open issue causing OBDII code B1C1A RAM?

- Repairs may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring, reconnecting any disconnected connectors, replacing a faulty headrest control module, or resetting the system after addressing the root cause of the circuit open fault.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code B1C1A RAM related to the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open without fixing the underlying issue?

- While clearing the code with a scan tool may temporarily turn off the warning light, the issue will likely reoccur until the root cause of the circuit open fault is properly addressed.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open problem associated with OBDII code B1C1A RAM?

- Depending on the individual's skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and repair simpler causes such as loose connectors or blown fuses. However, more complex issues may require professional assistance.

8. How does the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open fault impact the overall safety of the vehicle?

- The active headrest system plays a crucial role in preventing whiplash injuries during rear-end collisions. A circuit open fault can disable this safety feature, potentially compromising the vehicle's occupant protection in certain crash scenarios.

9. Is the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open issue covered under any vehicle warranties or recalls?

- It is advisable to check with your vehicle manufacturer or authorized dealer to determine if the active headrest control circuit open fault is covered under any existing warranties or recalls, especially if the vehicle is relatively new.

10. Are there any preventive maintenance measures I can take to minimize the risk of encountering the B1C1A RAM code related to the Passenger Active Headrest Control Circuit Open?

- Regularly inspecting the active headrest system components, ensuring proper wiring connections, and promptly addressing any warning lights or unusual symptoms can help prevent the occurrence of this fault code.