AutoCodes – Nissan – B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan

B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Driver Air Bag Module Open

Quick Answer

The driver air bag module is dual stage and wired to the air bag diagnosis sensor unit through the spiral cable. Common causes include Faulty Driver Air Bag, Faulty Spiral Cable, Driver Air Bag harness is open. 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: B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan indicates Driver Air Bag Module Open.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Driver Air Bag, Faulty Spiral Cable, Driver Air Bag harness is open.
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.

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Code Popularity 10,709

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 18, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan Description

The driver air bag module is dual stage and wired to the air bag diagnosis sensor unit through the spiral cable. The air bag diagnosis sensor unit will monitor for opens and shorts in detected lines to the driver air bag module including the spiral cable. In case of frontal collision whose acceleration exceeds the specified level, the ignition materials are ignited by the electric ignition system. The system burns and introduces the chemical reaction of gas generating materials to generate hot gases that flow into the air bag through a filter and expand the bag.

OBDII Code B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan - Driver Air Bag Module Open - AutoCodes.com — B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Driver Air Bag Module Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Faulty Driver Air Bag
Faulty Spiral Cable
Driver Air Bag harness is open
Driver Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Factory Service Manual Repair Order:

1. Visually check the wiring harness connection.
2. Replace the harness if it has visible damage.
3. Replace the driver air bag module.
4. Replace the spiral cable.
5. Replace the air bag diagnosis sensor unit.
6. Replace the related harness.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan 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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Need more information on how to fix the B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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.

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B1049 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What does the OBDII code B1049 indicate on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The code B1049 indicates a problem within the driver airbag module, specifically pointing to an "open" condition in the circuit, which means there is a break in the electrical circuit that prevents normal operation.

2. What are common symptoms of the B1049 code in a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard, and potentially the driver's airbag not deploying in the event of an accident.

3. What can cause the B1049 code to appear on my 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Causes may include a disconnected or damaged airbag connector, broken wiring in the airbag circuit, or a faulty airbag module.

4. Is it safe to drive my 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan with the B1049 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it involves the safety system of the vehicle. The driver's airbag may not deploy in a collision, which increases the risk of injury.

5. How can I troubleshoot and fix the B1049 code in a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Troubleshooting should start with checking the airbag module connector for proper connection and inspecting the wiring for breaks or shorts. If no issues are found there, the airbag module itself might need to be tested or replaced.

6. What tools are required to diagnose the B1049 code on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

A professional scan tool that can read body codes, a digital multimeter, and a wiring diagram are essential tools for diagnosing and repairing this issue.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the B1049 code in a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Costs can vary widely depending on the exact issue, but expect costs to range from $100 for minor electrical repairs to over $1000 if the airbag module needs replacement.

8. Can I fix the B1049 code myself or should I take it to a mechanic?

If you have experience with automotive electrical systems, you may be able to address simple wiring issues. However, due to the complexities and safety concerns of working with airbag systems, it is generally recommended to seek professional assistance.

9. What are the risks of ignoring the B1049 code on a 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Ignoring this code can lead to the driver's airbag not deploying in an accident, significantly increasing the risk of severe injury in a crash. It's important to address this issue promptly.

10. After repairing the B1049 issue, how can I ensure the system is working correctly?

After repairs, the airbag system should be thoroughly tested using a diagnostic scanner to ensure the code does not return and the system is functioning correctly. The airbag warning light on the dashboard should no longer be illuminated.