B1159 Code - Front Airbag Sensor LH Malfunction
Quick Answer
The Front Airbag Sensor (Left Side) circuit consists of the Airbag Sensor Assembly and Front Airbag Sensor LH. Common causes include Faulty Front Airbag Sensor (Left Side), Front Airbag Sensor harness is open or shorted, Front Airbag 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
- B1159 indicates Front Airbag Sensor LH Malfunction.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Front Airbag Sensor (Left Side), Front Airbag Sensor harness is open or shorted, Front Airbag 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 B1159 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1159?
- Faulty Front Airbag Sensor (Left Side)
- Front Airbag Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Front Airbag Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Airbag Sensor Assembly
How to Fix the DTC B1159?
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 B1159 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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Information for Specific Makes
- B1159 Acura — Gauge Control Module Lost Communication With Multiplex Integrated Control Unit
- B1159 Buick — SDM Calibration Mismatch
- B1159 Cadillac — SDM Calibration Mismatch
- B1159 Chevrolet — SDM Calibration Mismatch
- B1159 GMC — SDM Calibration Mismatch
- B1159 Honda — Gauge Control Module Lost Communication With Multiplex Integrated Control Unit
- B1159 Lexus — Front Airbag Sensor LH Malfunction
- B1159 Scion — Front Airbag Sensor LH Malfunction
- B1159 Toyota — Front Airbag Sensor LH Malfunction
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 B1159 Code
1. What does OBDII code B1159 mean?
Code B1159 indicates a malfunction in the left-hand (LH) front airbag sensor, which is part of the vehicle's Supplemental Restraint System (SRS).
2. What are the common symptoms of code B1159?
Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying on, possible deactivation of the airbag system, and no other noticeable driving issues.
3. What causes code B1159 to trigger?
Causes include a faulty front airbag sensor (LH), damaged wiring or connectors, water or corrosion in the sensor area, or a failure in the SRS control module.
4. Can I still drive my car with code B1159?
While the car may still be drivable, the airbag system may not function properly in an accident, posing a significant safety risk.
5. How do I diagnose code B1159?
Use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, visually inspect the left-hand front airbag sensor and related wiring, and test the sensor with a multimeter if necessary.
6. How can I fix code B1159?
Repairs may include replacing the faulty sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the SRS control module.
7. How much does it cost to fix code B1159?
The repair cost varies but typically ranges from $150 to $500, depending on whether the sensor, wiring, or module needs replacement.
8. Can I reset code B1159 without fixing the issue?
Resetting the code without addressing the underlying problem will likely cause the code to return and compromise airbag system safety.
9. What tools are needed to repair code B1159?
Basic tools include an OBDII scanner, a multimeter, and possibly a socket set for sensor replacement. Advanced diagnostics may require specialized SRS tools.
10. Is code B1159 a common issue?
This code is not extremely common but may occur in vehicles with aging airbag systems or after exposure to water or physical damage.
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