AutoCodes – Dodge – B1C38 Dodge

B1C38 Dodge 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 Dodge 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.

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Code Popularity 875

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C38 Dodge?

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 Dodge?

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 Dodge 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 Dodge code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

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

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 Dodge Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1C38 in a Dodge related to the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential non-deployment of the driver's side airbag during a crash.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1C38 in a Dodge indicating 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

Common causes include damaged wiring or connectors in the driver's seatbelt retractor tensioner circuit, a faulty tensioner assembly, or a malfunctioning airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B1C38 in a Dodge linked to the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

Diagnosis involves using a compatible OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the wiring and connectors in the driver's seatbelt retractor tensioner circuit, and testing the tensioner assembly and airbag control module for proper functionality.

4. Can I continue driving my Dodge with the OBDII code B1C38 indicating 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code active, as it may compromise the effectiveness of the driver's side airbag in the event of a collision.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B1C38 in a Dodge related to the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

Repair typically involves addressing the specific cause of the code, such as repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the faulty tensioner assembly, or reprogramming or replacing the airbag control module if necessary.

6. Are there any safety precautions to consider when working on the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit in a Dodge?

When working on the airbag system, it is crucial to disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait at least 10 minutes before starting any repairs to prevent accidental airbag deployment.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code B1C38 in a Dodge indicating 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low without repairs?

Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the warning light, but the problem will persist and could potentially pose a safety risk. It is recommended to diagnose and repair the root cause of the code.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive skills fix OBDII code B1C38 in a Dodge related to the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

While some aspects of the repair, such as checking for loose connections, may be within reach for a DIY enthusiast, working on the airbag system requires specialized knowledge and tools. It is advisable to consult a professional technician for proper diagnosis and repair.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code B1C38 in a Dodge linked to the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

The repair time can vary based on the specific cause of the code and the extent of the issue. It is advisable to consult a qualified technician for an accurate assessment of the repair timeline.

10. Are there any recalls or service bulletins related to OBDII code B1C38 in Dodge vehicles concerning the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

It is recommended to check with the nearest Dodge dealership or the manufacturer's website for any relevant recalls or service bulletins related to this specific OBDII code to address potential known issues.