B1C39 RAM Code - 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit High
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
- B1C39 RAM indicates 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit High.
- 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 B1C39 RAM Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C39 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 B1C39 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 B1C39 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about B1C39 RAM Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1C39 mean?
The B1C39 code indicates a problem with the 1st Row Driver Retractor Tensioner Circuit, specifically that the circuit is reporting a high voltage condition.
2. What are the common symptoms of the B1C39 code?
Symptoms may include an illuminated airbag warning light, disabled airbag system, and possibly a fault stored in the vehicle’s computer.
3. What causes the B1C39 code to appear?
Common causes include a damaged or corroded wiring harness, a faulty driver seatbelt retractor tensioner, poor electrical connections, or a malfunctioning control module.
4. Is it safe to drive with the B1C39 code?
Driving with this code is not recommended, as the airbag system may not function correctly in the event of an accident, posing a safety risk.
5. How can I diagnose the B1C39 code?
You can diagnose the code by using an OBDII scanner to read the fault, visually inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the seatbelt retractor tensioner with a multimeter.
6. How do you fix the B1C39 code?
Repairs may include replacing the driver seatbelt retractor tensioner, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming the control module if necessary.
7. Can a weak battery cause the B1C39 code?
While unlikely, a weak or failing battery can sometimes cause electrical issues, so it’s worth checking the battery voltage as part of the diagnosis.
8. Does the B1C39 code mean the seatbelt retractor tensioner is bad?
Not necessarily. The issue could be with the wiring, connectors, or control module, so proper diagnosis is essential before replacing any parts.
9. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the B1C39 code?
You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing electrical components, and possibly wiring diagrams specific to your vehicle.
10. Can clearing the B1C39 code fix the problem?
Clearing the code without addressing the root cause will not fix the issue, as the fault will reappear if the underlying problem persists.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B1C39 RAM OBDII Code
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