B2986 Mercury 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 Mercury 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 Mercury 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 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 B2986 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 B2986 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 B2986 Mercury code?
Need more information on how to fix the B2986 Mercury code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the B2986 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 B2986 Mercury Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B2986 on a Mercury vehicle?
- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying on, the horn not working, and issues with the steering column functions.
2. What does the OBDII code B2986 Mercury indicate?
- The code B2986 indicates a deployable steering column circuit short to ground on a Mercury vehicle.
3. What are the possible causes of the deployable steering column circuit short to ground issue?
- Possible causes include damaged wiring, a faulty steering column control module, or a short circuit in the steering column circuit.
4. How can I diagnose the deployable steering column circuit short to ground problem on my Mercury?
- Use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the OBDII code B2986, inspect the wiring for any visible damage, and test the steering column control module for proper functionality.
5. Can I still drive my Mercury with the B2986 code present?
- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the B2986 code present, as it indicates a potential safety issue with the deployable steering column circuit.
6. Is it safe to attempt repairs for the deployable steering column circuit short to ground issue myself?
- It is recommended to have this issue diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic to ensure proper and safe repairs.
7. How much does it typically cost to repair the deployable steering column circuit short to ground problem on a Mercury?
- The cost of repairs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from $200 to $500 or more, including parts and labor.
8. Can resetting the OBDII code B2986 clear the issue temporarily?
- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but the underlying issue causing the deployable steering column circuit short to ground will need to be addressed for a permanent fix.
9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid the deployable steering column circuit short to ground problem?
- Regularly inspecting the wiring harness and connectors in the steering column area for any signs of wear or damage can help prevent issues like a circuit short to ground.
10. Will driving with the B2986 code damage other components in my Mercury vehicle?
- Continuing to drive with the B2986 code may potentially cause further damage to the steering column control module or other related components, so it's best to address the issue promptly.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B2986 Mercury OBDII Code
Code B2986 Mercury comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
