B1018 Code - Occupant Sensor
Quick Answer
The Occupant Sensor suppresses the deployment of passenger air bag when the condition of the passenger seat is empty or child and child-seat. Common causes include Faulty Occupant Sensor, Occupant Sensor harness is open or shorted, Occupant Sensor 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
- B1018 indicates Occupant Sensor.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Occupant Sensor, Occupant Sensor harness is open or shorted, Occupant Sensor 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 B1018 Description
The Occupant Sensor unit classifies occupant in the passenger seat and transmits it to Occupant Classification System (OCS) control unit.
Plural Occupant Sensors are installed in the sensor mat to prevent incorrect sensing induced by the sitting position.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1018?
- Faulty Occupant Sensor
- Occupant Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Occupant Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC B1018?
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 B1018 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 B1018 code?
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Need Help with the Code?
Get the B1018 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- B1018 Infiniti — Occupant Sensor
- B1018 Nissan — Occupant Sensor
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 B1018 Code
1. What is OBDII code B1018 for the Occupant Sensor?
The B1018 code refers to a fault in the occupant sensor system, which is responsible for detecting passengers in the vehicle for proper airbag deployment.
2. What are common symptoms of a B1018 code?
Common symptoms include the airbag warning light being illuminated on the dashboard, the airbag system being disabled, and potential issues with airbag deployment in the event of an accident.
3. What are possible causes of a B1018 code?
Causes can include a faulty occupant sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the occupant detection system, or a malfunction in the airbag control module.
4. How can I diagnose a B1018 code?
Diagnosing a B1018 code typically involves using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code and then conducting further testing of the occupant sensor system components.
5. Can I repair a B1018 code myself?
While some DIY enthusiasts may attempt to repair a B1018 code themselves by replacing the occupant sensor or fixing wiring issues, it is recommended to have this repair done by a qualified mechanic to ensure proper functionality and safety.
6. How much does it cost to fix a B1018 code?
The cost of fixing a B1018 code can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.
7. Is it safe to drive with a B1018 code present?
It is not recommended to drive with a B1018 code present, as it indicates a potential problem with the airbag system, which is a critical safety feature in the event of a collision.
8. Can a B1018 code be reset without repairs?
While you can clear the B1018 code using an OBDII scanner, the underlying issue causing the code will persist unless properly diagnosed and repaired.
9. How often does a B1018 code occur in vehicles?
B1018 codes are relatively uncommon compared to other OBDII codes, but they can still occur in vehicles with advanced airbag systems and occupant detection technology.
10. Are there any recalls related to the B1018 code?
Recalls related to the B1018 code are specific to certain vehicle models and manufacturers. It is advisable to check with your vehicle manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for any related recalls.
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