B2986 Lincoln Code - Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Ground
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
- B2986 Lincoln indicates Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Ground.
- 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 B2986 Lincoln Description
The RCM checks the deployable steering column circuits for faults. If the RCM detects a short to ground on either circuit, it will store the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B2986 in memory and illuminate the air bag indicator.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B2986 Lincoln?
- 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 B2986 Lincoln?
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 B2986 Lincoln 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 B2986 Lincoln Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B2986 Lincoln (Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Ground)?
- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential loss of functionality of the deployable steering column in the vehicle.
2. What can cause the OBDII code B2986 Lincoln to trigger?
- The code B2986 can be triggered by a short to ground in the deployable steering column circuit, which may be caused by damaged wiring, a faulty deployable steering column module, or a malfunctioning sensor.
3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code B2986 Lincoln?
- Diagnosing the issue requires a thorough inspection of the deployable steering column circuit, checking for damaged wiring, loose connections, or faulty components using a diagnostic scanner capable of reading airbag system codes.
4. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B2986 Lincoln active?
- It is not recommended to drive with the B2986 code active, as it indicates a potential issue with the deployable steering column, which is a critical safety component in the vehicle.
5. What are the repair options for OBDII code B2986 Lincoln?
- Repair options may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, replacing the deployable steering column module, or addressing any other component causing the short to ground in the circuit.
6. Can I reset the OBDII code B2986 Lincoln without fixing the underlying issue?
- Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will likely result in the code reappearing once the problem is still present in the vehicle's system.
7. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B2986 Lincoln?
- Repair costs can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific components that need to be replaced. It is recommended to consult a professional technician for an accurate diagnosis and cost estimate.
8. Are there any safety precautions to take when working on the deployable steering column circuit?
- When working on the deployable steering column circuit, it is crucial to disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait for at least 10 minutes before starting any repairs to avoid accidental deployment of the airbag system.
9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B2986 Lincoln at home?
- While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to diagnose and repair wiring issues, dealing with airbag system components can be dangerous. It is recommended to seek professional help to ensure the repair is done correctly and safely.
10. How often does OBDII code B2986 Lincoln occur in Lincoln vehicles?
- The occurrence of OBDII code B2986 in Lincoln vehicles can vary, but it is not a common code compared to other more frequently encountered issues in the airbag system.
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