B220B Code - Occupant Restraint Controller Firing Stored Energy
Quick Answer
When powered, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) performs an internal self test. Common causes include Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) harness is open or shorted, Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) 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
- B220B indicates Occupant Restraint Controller Firing Stored Energy.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) harness is open or shorted, Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) 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 B220B Description
The ORC checks the status of firing stored energy circuit at power up during the initialization process, and continuously through the ignition cycle.
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when a fault is detected internal to ORC firing stored energy circuit. Once set, this DTC is latched permanently and the ORC must be replaced.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B220B?
- Faulty Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
- Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) harness is open or shorted
- Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC B220B?
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 B220B 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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Information for Specific Makes
- B220B Chrysler — Occupant Restraint Controller Firing Stored Energy
- B220B Dodge — Occupant Restraint Controller Firing Stored Energy
- B220B Jeep — Occupant Restraint Controller Firing Stored Energy
- B220B RAM — Occupant Restraint Controller Firing Stored Energy
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 B220B Code
1. What does the OBDII code B220B mean?
The B220B code indicates that the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) has detected an issue with the firing stored energy circuit, which is critical for deploying airbags during a collision.
2. What are the common symptoms of the B220B code?
Symptoms may include the airbag warning light staying illuminated, stored diagnostic trouble codes in the ORC, and potential malfunction of the airbag system during a crash.
3. What causes the B220B code to appear?
Common causes include a depleted or faulty backup power supply for the ORC, damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, or a malfunctioning Occupant Restraint Controller.
4. Is it safe to drive with the B220B code present?
No, it is not safe to drive with this code because the airbag system may not function properly in the event of a collision, increasing the risk of injury.
5. How is the B220B code diagnosed?
A technician will use a diagnostic scanner to confirm the code, inspect the ORC and related wiring for damage, and test the stored energy circuit for proper voltage and continuity.
6. Can a dead car battery cause the B220B code?
Yes, a dead or weak car battery can deplete the backup power supply for the ORC, potentially triggering the B220B code.
7. What repairs are needed to fix the B220B code?
Repairs may include replacing the Occupant Restraint Controller, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or recharging/replacing the backup power supply.
8. Can I clear the B220B code without making repairs?
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue is not recommended, as the problem will likely persist and compromise airbag safety.
9. How much does it cost to fix the B220B code?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause but typically range from $200 to $800, including parts and labor.
10. Can the B220B code be caused by an accident?
Yes, previous collisions can damage the ORC, wiring, or airbag components, leading to the B220B code.
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