B1879 Code - Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner Circuit Short To Ground
Quick Answer
The Restraints Control Module (RCM) checks all of the safety Seat Belt Pretensioners for faults. Common causes include Faulty Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner, Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner harness is open or shorted, Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner 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
- B1879 indicates Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner Circuit Short To Ground.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner, Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner harness is open or shorted, Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner 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 B1879 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1879?
- Faulty Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner
- Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner harness is open or shorted
- Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)
How to Fix the DTC B1879?
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 B1879 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
- B1879 Ford — Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner Circuit Short To Ground
- B1879 Lincoln — Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner Circuit Short To Ground
- B1879 Mazda — Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner Circuit Short To Ground
- B1879 Mercury — Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner Circuit Short To Ground
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 B1879 Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1879 - Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner Circuit Short To Ground?
- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and the seat belt pretensioner system not operating properly in the event of a collision.
2. What are possible causes of OBDII code B1879?
- Possible causes include a short circuit in the wiring harness related to the driver's seat belt pretensioner, a faulty seat belt pretensioner, or a malfunctioning airbag control module.
3. How can I diagnose OBDII code B1879?
- Diagnosing this code typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the specific trouble code, inspecting the wiring harness for any visible damage or shorts, and testing the seat belt pretensioner and related components for proper functionality.
4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code B1879 present?
- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as the seat belt pretensioner system may not deploy properly in the event of an accident, potentially compromising your safety.
5. How can I repair OBDII code B1879 - Seat Belt Driver Pretensioner Circuit Short To Ground?
- Repairing this code may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring in the circuit, replacing the faulty seat belt pretensioner, or addressing any issues with the airbag control module. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
6. Are there any safety precautions I should take when working on OBDII code B1879?
- When working on this code, it is important to disconnect the vehicle's battery to prevent accidental airbag deployment and follow proper safety procedures outlined in the vehicle's service manual.
7. Can resetting the OBDII code B1879 fix the issue?
- Simply resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will not permanently fix the problem. It is important to diagnose the root cause of the code and perform the necessary repairs to ensure proper operation of the seat belt pretensioner system.
8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1879?
- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, the labor rates in your area, and the cost of any replacement parts needed. It is recommended to obtain quotes from reputable repair shops for an accurate estimate.
9. Is OBDII code B1879 a common issue in certain vehicle makes and models?
- This code can be more common in vehicles with advanced safety systems that include seat belt pretensioners. It is advisable to check for any manufacturer-specific technical service bulletins related to this code for your particular vehicle make and model.
10. Can I use a DIY approach to repair OBDII code B1879, or should I seek professional help?
- While some basic troubleshooting steps can be taken by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing OBDII code B1879 often requires specialized tools and expertise. For safety reasons and to ensure proper repair, it is recommended to seek help from a qualified mechanic or automotive technician.
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