AutoCodes – Generic – B1993

B1993 Code - Driver Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Ground

Quick Answer

The Restraints Control Module (RCM) monitors the Driver Side Side Mount Airbag. Common causes include Faulty Driver Side Side Mount Airbag, Driver Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted, Driver Side Side Mount Airbag 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: B1993 indicates Driver Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Driver Side Side Mount Airbag, Driver Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted, Driver Side Side Mount Airbag 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.

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Code Popularity 5,110

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 Aug 03, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1993 Description

The Restraints Control Module (RCM) monitors the Driver Side Side Mount Airbag. The RCM sets the OBDII code when the Driver Side Side Mount Airbag is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code B1993 - Driver Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Ground - AutoCodes.com — B1993 Code - Driver Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1993?

Faulty Driver Side Side Mount Airbag
Driver Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted
Driver Side Side Mount Airbag circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)

How to Fix the DTC B1993?

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 B1993 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 B1993 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1993 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1993 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B1993 Ford — Driver Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Ground
B1993 Lincoln — Driver Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Short To Ground
B1993 Mercury — Driver Side Side Mount Airbag 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.

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 B1993 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B1993?

The common symptoms of OBDII code B1993 include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard, non-functioning airbag system, and potential loss of driver side airbag deployment in the event of a collision.

2. What does the OBDII code B1993 indicate?

OBDII code B1993 indicates a driver side side mount airbag circuit short to ground. This means there is an electrical issue in the circuit that controls the deployment of the driver side airbag.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1993?

Possible causes of OBDII code B1993 include damaged wiring in the driver side airbag circuit, a faulty airbag module, a short circuit to ground in the circuit, or a malfunctioning airbag sensor.

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code B1993?

Diagnosing OBDII code B1993 involves using a scan tool to retrieve the code, inspecting the driver side airbag circuit for any visible damage or shorts, testing the airbag module and sensor for functionality, and performing electrical tests to identify the source of the short to ground.

5. Can I drive my vehicle with OBDII code B1993?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with OBDII code B1993 present, as it indicates a potential issue with the driver side airbag system, which is a critical safety component. Driving with a faulty airbag system can put you at risk in the event of a collision.

6. How can I repair OBDII code B1993?

Repairing OBDII code B1993 may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring in the driver side airbag circuit, replacing the airbag module or sensor if faulty, and clearing the code from the vehicle's computer using a scan tool once the issue is resolved.

7. Is it safe to attempt to repair OBDII code B1993 myself?

Repairing OBDII code B1993 involves working with the vehicle's airbag system, which can be dangerous if not done correctly. It is recommended to have this issue diagnosed and repaired by a qualified automotive technician to ensure proper repairs and safety.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1993?

The cost to repair OBDII code B1993 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, the labor rates in your area, and the cost of any necessary parts. It is recommended to get a diagnosis from a professional to get an accurate estimate for the repair.

9. Can OBDII code B1993 be intermittent?

Yes, OBDII code B1993 can be intermittent if the short to ground in the driver side airbag circuit comes and goes. It is important to address this issue promptly, even if the code clears on its own, to ensure the airbag system functions properly when needed.

10. Will OBDII code B1993 cause my vehicle to fail an inspection?

Yes, OBDII code B1993 can cause your vehicle to fail a safety inspection, as it indicates a fault in the driver side airbag system. It is important to address this issue promptly to ensure your vehicle meets safety standards.