AutoCodesRAM – B1C4A RAM

B1C4A RAM Code - 1st Row Passenger Retractor Tensioner Circuit Shorted Together

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 Passenger Retractor Tensioner, 1st Row Passenger Retractor Tensioner harness is open or shorted, 1st Row Passenger 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
B1C4A RAM indicates 1st Row Passenger Retractor Tensioner Circuit Shorted Together.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty 1st Row Passenger Retractor Tensioner, 1st Row Passenger Retractor Tensioner harness is open or shorted, 1st Row Passenger 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 562
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 26, 2019
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Code B1C4A 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 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 data return wire to determine the state of the circuit.
OBDII Code B1C4A RAM - 1st Row Passenger Retractor Tensioner Circuit Shorted Together - AutoCodes.com
B1C4A RAM Code - 1st Row Passenger Retractor Tensioner Circuit Shorted Together

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C4A RAM?

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

How to Fix the DTC B1C4A 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 B1C4A 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 B1C4A RAM code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C4A RAM code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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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.

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 B1C4A RAM Code

What are common symptoms of OBDII code B1C4A?

Common symptoms of OBDII code B1C4A may include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard, an inoperative or malfunctioning passenger seat belt retractor, and potential deployment issues with the passenger-side airbag.

What are possible causes of OBDII code B1C4A?

Possible causes of OBDII code B1C4A include a short circuit in the 1st row passenger retractor tensioner circuit, damaged wiring or connectors related to the passenger seat belt system, or a faulty passenger retractor tensioner.

How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code B1C4A?

Diagnosing the issue related to OBDII code B1C4A typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the wiring and connectors associated with the passenger seat belt system, and testing the passenger retractor tensioner for proper functionality.

Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B1C4A present?

It is not recommended to drive with OBDII code B1C4A present, as it indicates a potential safety issue with the passenger seat belt system and airbag deployment. It is advisable to address the problem promptly to ensure the proper functioning of these critical safety components.

What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code B1C4A?

Repair tips for resolving OBDII code B1C4A may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors in the 1st row passenger retractor tensioner circuit, replacing a faulty passenger retractor tensioner, and clearing the fault code with an OBDII scanner after completing the repairs.

Can I reset OBDII code B1C4A without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the OBDII code B1C4A temporarily without fixing the underlying issue, the problem will likely reoccur if the root cause is not addressed. It is important to diagnose and repair the issue to ensure the proper functioning of the passenger seat belt system and airbag.

Are there any safety precautions to consider when working on OBDII code B1C4A?

When working on OBDII code B1C4A, it is essential to disconnect the vehicle's battery before performing any repairs to avoid accidental airbag deployment. Additionally, following manufacturer's safety guidelines and using proper tools and techniques are crucial for a safe repair process.

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