B1C38 Mitsubishi 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 Mitsubishi 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.
Code B1C38 Mitsubishi Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C38 Mitsubishi?
- 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 Mitsubishi?
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 Mitsubishi 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 Mitsubishi code?
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Need Help with the Code?
Get the B1C38 Mitsubishi 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about B1C38 Mitsubishi Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1C38 indicate on a Mitsubishi vehicle?
- Code B1C38 indicates a fault in the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit, specifically signaling a low voltage situation in the seatbelt retractor pretensioner system.
2. What are the common symptoms of code B1C38 in a Mitsubishi?
- Symptoms can include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potentially the seatbelt pretensioner not deploying during a crash.
3. What could cause the B1C38 code to appear on my Mitsubishi?
- Possible causes include damaged wiring, a faulty seatbelt pretensioner, low battery voltage, or a malfunctioning Airbag Control Unit (ACU).
4. How can I fix the B1C38 fault code on my Mitsubishi?
- Repairs might involve inspecting and repairing any damaged wiring, replacing the faulty seatbelt pretensioner, ensuring proper battery voltage, or replacing the Airbag Control Unit if needed.
5. Is it safe to drive with the B1C38 code active on my Mitsubishi?
- It is not recommended to drive with this code active because it involves the safety restraint system, which may not operate correctly in the event of an accident.
6. How urgent is it to address the B1C38 code on a Mitsubishi?
- It is quite urgent to address this issue as it pertains to the vehicle’s safety features. Immediate attention is recommended to ensure occupant safety.
7. What tools are required to diagnose the B1C38 code on a Mitsubishi?
- Diagnosing this code typically requires a professional scan tool capable of interfacing with the vehicle’s airbag system, a multimeter, and possibly an oscilloscope for detailed electrical testing.
8. Can a low battery cause the B1C38 code on a Mitsubishi?
- Yes, a low battery can lead to insufficient voltage supply to the seatbelt pretensioner circuit, potentially triggering this code.
9. What is the role of the driver retractor tensioner in a Mitsubishi?
- The driver retractor tensioner is part of the seatbelt system, designed to tighten the seatbelt against the driver’s body in the event of a collision, helping to prevent movement and reduce injury risks.
10. After repairing the B1C38 code, how can I ensure the issue has been resolved?
- After repairs, the fault code should be cleared using an OBDII scan tool. Then, perform a system test or a test drive to ensure the airbag system functions correctly and the code does not reappear.
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