AutoCodes – RAM – B1C4E RAM

B1C4E RAM Code - 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open

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 Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner, 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner harness is open or shorted, 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle 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: B1C4E RAM indicates 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner, 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner harness is open or shorted, 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle 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 793

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 B1C4E 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 B1C4E RAM - 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open - AutoCodes.com — B1C4E RAM Code - 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C4E RAM?

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

How to Fix the DTC B1C4E 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 B1C4E 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 B1C4E RAM code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1C4E RAM code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1C4E 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 B1C4E RAM Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1C4E related to the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- The common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and potential failure of the passenger seat belt tensioner system.

2. What can cause the OBDII code B1C4E to trigger for the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- The code is usually triggered by a fault in the wiring, connectors, or the seat belt buckle tensioner itself, leading to an open circuit in the passenger seat belt system.

3. How serious is the OBDII code B1C4E related to the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- This code indicates a potential safety issue as it involves the seat belt tensioner system, which is crucial for passenger safety in case of a collision. It should be addressed promptly.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with the OBDII code B1C4E for the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code active, as it may compromise the effectiveness of the passenger seat belt tensioner system in the event of an accident.

5. How can I diagnose and repair the OBDII code B1C4E for the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- Diagnosis involves inspecting the wiring, connectors, and the seat belt buckle tensioner for any visible damage or loose connections. Repair may involve repairing or replacing the faulty components.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code B1C4E related to the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will likely result in the code reappearing. It is important to diagnose and repair the problem first.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code B1C4E for the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- While some enthusiasts may have the skills to diagnose and repair wiring issues, dealing with safety-critical systems like seat belt tensioners is best left to professionals for proper repair and testing.

8. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to the OBDII code B1C4E and the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- It's advisable to check with the vehicle manufacturer or authorized service centers for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to this specific OBDII code to ensure all necessary repairs are covered.

9. How much can I expect to pay to fix the OBDII code B1C4E regarding the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the extent of the issue and the specific components that need to be repaired or replaced. It's recommended to get a professional diagnosis for an accurate estimate.

10. Is it safe to ignore the OBDII code B1C4E for the 1st Row Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Tensioner Circuit Open?

- Ignoring this code can compromise the safety of the passenger in case of an accident. It's important to address the underlying issue promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the seat belt tensioner system.