AutoCodes – RAM – B1C38 RAM

B1C38 RAM 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 RAM 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 581

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C38 RAM?

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 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 B1C38 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.

Need more information about the B1C38 RAM code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1C38 RAM 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 RAM Code

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

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, potential non-deployment of the driver's side airbag during a collision, and diagnostic trouble codes related to the restraint system.

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

Possible causes may include damaged wiring or connectors in the driver's seatbelt retractor tensioner circuit, a faulty seatbelt retractor assembly, or issues with the airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B1C38 RAM for the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to read the fault codes, checking the wiring and connectors for any visible damage, and performing circuit testing to identify the exact cause of the low circuit condition.

4. Is it safe to continue driving with the OBDII code B1C38 related to the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

It is not recommended to continue driving with this fault code present, as it may indicate a potential safety issue with the driver's side airbag system. It is advised to address the problem promptly.

5. Can I reset the OBDII code B1C38 RAM for the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low by disconnecting the battery?

While disconnecting the battery may clear the code temporarily, it is not a recommended solution as the underlying issue causing the fault code will still remain unresolved. Proper diagnosis and repairs are necessary.

6. Are there any DIY repair tips for addressing the OBDII code B1C38 indicating a 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

DIY repairs for this code may include visually inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, checking the seatbelt retractor assembly for proper operation, and consulting the vehicle's service manual for specific troubleshooting steps.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1C38 related to the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue. It may involve replacing damaged wiring, connectors, or components in the retractor tensioner circuit, which could range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars at a dealership or repair shop.

8. Can a mechanic easily fix the OBDII code B1C38 RAM for the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

A qualified mechanic with experience in airbag systems and electrical diagnostics should be able to diagnose and repair the issue related to this code effectively. It is recommended to seek professional help for accurate and safe repairs.

9. Will the OBDII code B1C38 cause my vehicle to fail inspection?

In many regions, a fault code related to the airbag system, such as B1C38 indicating a 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low, can cause a vehicle to fail inspection due to safety concerns. It is important to address the issue promptly to pass inspection.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code B1C38 RAM for the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit Low?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the code and the extent of the necessary repairs. It may take a few hours to a day or more to diagnose and fix the issue, so it's advisable to plan accordingly when scheduling repairs.