B1998 Ford Code - Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Open
Quick Answer
The Restraints Control Module (RCM) monitors the Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag, Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted, Passenger 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
- B1998 Ford indicates Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag Circuit Open.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag, Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted, Passenger 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.
Code B1998 Ford Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1998 Ford?
- Faulty Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag
- Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag harness is open or shorted
- Passenger Side Side Mount Airbag circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)
How to Fix the DTC B1998 Ford?
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 B1998 Ford 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 B1998 Ford code?
Need more information on how to fix the B1998 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the B1998 Ford code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
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 B1998 Ford Code
1. What does the OBDII code B1998 mean on a Ford vehicle?
The code B1998 indicates an open circuit in the passenger side side mount airbag, meaning the airbag system has detected a fault in the wiring or connections.
2. What are the common symptoms of the B1998 code?
Symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and the passenger side side mount airbag being disabled.
3. What causes the B1998 code to appear?
The most common causes are damaged or disconnected wiring, a faulty airbag module, or a loose or corroded connector in the airbag circuit.
4. Can I drive my Ford vehicle with the B1998 code?
While the vehicle may still be drivable, the passenger side side airbag will not deploy in an accident, posing a safety risk.
5. How can I diagnose the B1998 code?
Start by visually inspecting the wiring and connectors for the passenger side side mount airbag, then use a diagnostic scan tool to confirm the fault and pinpoint the issue.
6. What tools do I need to repair the B1998 code?
You will need a diagnostic scan tool, a multimeter for testing circuits, and potentially replacement wiring or connectors if damage is found.
7. How much does it cost to fix the B1998 code?
Repair costs vary depending on the issue but can range from $50 for minor wiring repairs to several hundred dollars if the airbag module needs replacement.
8. Can a bad clock spring cause the B1998 code?
No, the clock spring is associated with steering wheel airbag issues, not the passenger side side mount airbag circuit.
9. Do I need to reset the airbag system after fixing the B1998 code?
Yes, after repairs are completed, you’ll need to clear the code using a diagnostic tool and verify the system is functioning properly.
10. Is it safe to attempt repairs for the B1998 code on my own?
Airbag repairs should be handled with caution as improper handling can cause accidental deployment. If unsure, consult a professional mechanic.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B1998 Ford OBDII Code
Code B1998 Ford comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
