AutoCodes – Generic – B2985

B2985 Code - Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery

Quick Answer

As part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), the vehicle is equipped with a deployable steering column. Common causes include Faulty Steering Column, Steering Column harness is open or shorted, Steering Column 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: B2985 indicates Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Steering Column, Steering Column harness is open or shorted, Steering Column 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 969

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 Feb 25, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B2985 Description

As part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), the vehicle is equipped with a deployable steering column. The Restraints Control Module (RCM) will deploy (collapse) the steering column during a frontal collision when seat position information and other parameters reach predetermined limits.
The RCM checks the deployable steering column circuits for faults. If the RCM detects a short to voltage, it will store the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B2985 in memory and illuminate the air bag indicator.

OBDII Code B2985 - Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery - AutoCodes.com — B2985 Code - Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B2985?

Faulty Steering Column
Steering Column harness is open or shorted
Steering Column circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)

How to Fix the DTC B2985?

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 B2985 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 B2985 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B2985 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B2985 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B2985 Ford — Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery
B2985 Lincoln — Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery
B2985 Mercury — Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery

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 B2985 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery?

The common symptoms of this code may include illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard, inoperative steering column deployment system, and potential loss of communication with the steering column module.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery?

Possible causes of this OBDII code include a short circuit in the steering column wiring, faulty steering column module, damaged wiring harness, or a malfunctioning steering column deployment mechanism.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery?

Diagnosing this code typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the steering column wiring and connectors for any signs of damage, and testing the steering column module for proper functionality.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it may indicate a potential safety issue with the steering column deployment system. It is advisable to address the problem promptly to ensure safe operation of the vehicle.

5. How do I repair OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery?

Repairing this code may involve repairing or replacing the damaged wiring in the steering column, replacing the faulty steering column module, or addressing any other underlying issues causing the short circuit to the battery.

6. Is OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery a serious issue?

Yes, this code should be taken seriously as it pertains to the safety systems of the vehicle. A malfunction in the steering column deployment system can compromise occupant safety in the event of a collision.

7. Can I reset OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery on my own?

Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it is important to address the underlying issue causing the fault code to prevent it from reoccurring. A professional diagnosis and repair are recommended.

8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery?

The cost of fixing this code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, the extent of the repair needed, and the labor rates of the repair shop. It is advisable to obtain a diagnosis and repair estimate from a qualified technician.

9. Can extreme weather conditions cause OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery?

Extreme weather conditions can potentially contribute to electrical issues in the vehicle, including shorts in the steering column circuit. It is important to keep the vehicle well-maintained and protected from harsh weather to prevent such problems.

10. How often should I have my vehicle's steering column system inspected to prevent OBDII code B2985 Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Battery?

Regular maintenance and inspections of the steering column system, including checking for any signs of wiring damage or malfunctions, can help prevent issues like OBDII code B2985. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule for optimal safety and performance.