B2985 Mercury Code - Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery
Quick Answer
As part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), the vehicle is equipped with a deployable steering column. Common causes include Faulty Steering Column, Steering Column harness is open or shorted, Steering Column 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
- B2985 Mercury indicates Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Steering Column, Steering Column harness is open or shorted, Steering Column 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 B2985 Mercury Description
The RCM checks the deployable steering column circuits for faults. If the RCM detects a short to voltage, it will store the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B2985 in memory and illuminate the air bag indicator.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B2985 Mercury?
- Faulty Steering Column
- Steering Column harness is open or shorted
- Steering Column circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)
How to Fix the DTC B2985 Mercury?
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 B2985 Mercury 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 B2985 Mercury code?
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Need Help with the Code?
Get the B2985 Mercury 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about B2985 Mercury Code
1. What does the OBDII code B2985 mean on a Mercury vehicle?
B2985 indicates a "Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery," meaning there is an electrical short in the system controlling the deployable steering column.
2. What are the symptoms of code B2985 in a Mercury?
Common symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light, issues with steering column adjustment, and potential failure of the deployable steering column system.
3. What causes the B2985 code on a Mercury?
The code is typically caused by damaged wiring, a short to the battery in the steering column circuit, a faulty deployable steering column module, or a defective airbag control module.
4. Is it safe to drive a Mercury with the B2985 code?
It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it may indicate a malfunction in the safety systems, potentially affecting airbag deployment or steering column operation during a collision.
5. How is the B2985 code diagnosed on a Mercury?
A technician will use a scan tool to confirm the code, then inspect the wiring, connectors, and modules associated with the deployable steering column circuit for shorts, damage, or corrosion.
6. Can I fix the B2985 code on my Mercury myself?
If you have experience with electrical systems, you can check for damaged wiring or corroded connectors. However, more complex repairs, like module replacement, should be done by a professional.
7. How much does it cost to repair the B2985 code in a Mercury?
Repair costs vary depending on the issue, with wiring repairs typically costing $100–$300, while module replacement can range from $500–$1,000.
8. Can clearing the B2985 code solve the problem?
Clearing the code may turn off the warning light temporarily, but the underlying problem must be fixed to prevent the code from returning.
9. Does the B2985 code affect airbag functionality in a Mercury?
Yes, this code may impact the airbag system, as the deployable steering column is part of the vehicle's safety features.
10. What tools are needed to diagnose the B2985 code?
A scan tool capable of reading Mercury-specific codes, a multimeter for checking electrical circuits, and basic hand tools for inspecting wiring and connectors are typically required.
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