AutoCodes – Generic – B1C38

B1C38 Code - 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low

Quick Answer

When powered, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) sends a test current to the squibs to verify the integrity of the squib and wiring. Common causes include Faulty 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner, 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner harness is open or shorted, 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner 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: B1C38 indicates 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner, 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner harness is open or shorted, 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner 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 1,898

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
Add Comment

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

Code B1C38 Description

When powered, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) sends a test current to the squibs to verify the integrity of the squib and wiring. These circuits are maintained in a floating configuration at the module (connected to neither power nor ground) as protection against inadvertent deployment. The use of the Supplemental Restraints System (SRS) Load Tool Jumpers and the SRS Load Tool Adapter provides a test point as well as a method for opening the shorting bar connections within the harness connector. The ORC sends out a 40 mA diagnostic current on each squib voltage supply circuit at power up and every 500 ms thereafter while the ignition is in on. The module then monitors the return wire to determine the state of the circuit.

OBDII Code B1C38 - 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — B1C38 Code - 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C38?

Faulty 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner
1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner harness is open or shorted
1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)

How to Fix the DTC B1C38?

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 B1C38 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 B1C38 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C38 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1C38 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1C38 Chrysler — 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low
B1C38 Dodge — 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low
B1C38 Ford — Master Unlock Switch
B1C38 Jeep — 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low
B1C38 Lincoln — Master Unlock Switch
B1C38 Mercury — Master Unlock Switch
B1C38 Mitsubishi — 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low
B1C38 RAM — 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner 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 B1C38 Code

What does OBDII code B1C38 mean?

OBDII code B1C38 refers to a problem with the first-row driver's seat belt retractor tensioner circuit being low, indicating a potential electrical issue or malfunction in the seat belt system.

What are the common symptoms associated with code B1C38?

Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illumination, a malfunctioning seat belt retractor, and potentially a lack of proper seat belt tension during a crash.

What could cause OBDII code B1C38 to trigger?

Potential causes include a faulty seat belt retractor, damaged wiring or connectors in the tensioner circuit, a blown fuse, or issues with the airbag control module.

How can I diagnose the issue related to code B1C38?

To diagnose the issue, check for any visible wiring damage, test the seat belt retractor for proper function, and use a multimeter to check the voltage and resistance in the circuit.

Is it safe to drive with code B1C38 active?

It is not recommended to drive with code B1C38 active, as it may indicate a problem with the seat belt system that could compromise safety in the event of an accident.

What repairs might be needed to fix code B1C38?

Repairs may include replacing the seat belt retractor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a faulty airbag control module.

Can resetting the check engine light fix code B1C38?

Resetting the check engine light will not fix the underlying issue; it is essential to diagnose and repair the issue before clearing the code.

Will code B1C38 affect my vehicle's ability to pass a safety inspection?

Yes, code B1C38 may prevent your vehicle from passing a safety inspection since it relates to critical safety systems like the seat belt and airbag functions.

How much does it typically cost to repair the issue associated with code B1C38?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific issue, but they may range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on whether parts need to be replaced or extensive diagnostics are required.