B1050 Code - Driver Air Bag Module Short
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 shorted. 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
- B1050 indicates Driver Air Bag Module Short.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Driver Air Bag, Faulty Spiral Cable, Driver Air Bag harness is shorted.
- 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 B1050 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1050?
- Faulty Driver Air Bag
- Faulty Spiral Cable
- Driver Air Bag harness is shorted
- Driver Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC B1050?
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 B1050 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 B1050 code?
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Need Help with the Code?
Get the B1050 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- B1050 Acura — Relay Control Module
- B1050 Honda — Relay Control Module
- B1050 Infiniti — Driver Air Bag Module Short
- B1050 Nissan — Driver Air Bag Module Short
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 B1050 Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1050 mean?
The B1050 code indicates a short circuit in the driver airbag module, which can prevent the airbag from deploying properly in an accident.
2. What are the common symptoms of the B1050 code?
The most common symptoms are the airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard and possible malfunction of the driver airbag system.
3. What causes the B1050 code to appear?
This code is often caused by damaged or shorted wiring, a faulty driver airbag module, or a defect in the airbag control unit.
4. Is it safe to drive with the B1050 code active?
It is not safe to drive with this code because it may indicate that the driver airbag will not deploy during an accident, compromising safety.
5. How can I diagnose the B1050 code?
Diagnose the code by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion and using a scan tool to test the airbag module and related circuits.
6. Can I fix the B1050 code myself?
If you have experience with automotive electrical systems, you can check and repair wiring issues, but replacing the airbag module or control unit typically requires professional expertise.
7. How much does it cost to repair the B1050 code?
Repair costs vary depending on the issue, but replacing an airbag module or control unit can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 or more, plus labor.
8. Can a blown fuse cause the B1050 code?
While unlikely, a blown fuse can sometimes contribute to airbag system issues, but the B1050 code specifically points to a short in the driver airbag module.
9. Will clearing the code fix the issue?
Clearing the code will not fix the underlying problem; the short circuit or damaged component must be repaired or replaced first.
10. Do I need to replace the airbag module for the B1050 code?
Not always. The issue could be with the wiring or connectors, so the module should only be replaced after thorough diagnostics confirm it is faulty.
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