B2986 Code - Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Ground
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
- B2986 indicates Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Ground.
- 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.
Code B2986 Description
The RCM checks the deployable steering column circuits for faults. If the RCM detects a short to ground on either circuit, it will store the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B2986 in memory and illuminate the air bag indicator.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B2986?
- 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 B2986?
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 B2986 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
- B2986 Acura — Recirculation Control Motor Circuit Open
- B2986 Ford — Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Ground
- B2986 Honda — Recirculation Control Motor Circuit Open
- B2986 Lincoln — Deployable Steering Column Circuit Short To Ground
- B2986 Mercury — Deployable Steering Column 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 B2986 Code
1. What does the OBDII code B2986 mean?
Code B2986 indicates a short to ground in the deployable steering column circuit, which is part of the vehicle's safety system designed to minimize injury during a collision.
2. What are the common symptoms of a B2986 code?
Symptoms may include an illuminated airbag or SRS warning light, failure of the steering column to deploy properly during a crash, or stored crash-related fault codes.
3. What causes the B2986 code to trigger?
Common causes include damaged wiring, a faulty deployable steering column module, corroded or loose electrical connections, or an impact-related failure.
4. How do I diagnose the B2986 code?
Diagnosis involves inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, testing the deployable steering column module, and checking for other related fault codes.
5. Can I drive with a B2986 code active?
While the vehicle may still operate, driving with this code is not recommended as it indicates a potential safety system failure.
6. How is the B2986 code repaired?
Repairs typically include fixing or replacing damaged wiring, reconnecting or cleaning corroded connectors, or replacing the deployable steering column module if necessary.
7. How much does it cost to fix a B2986 code?
Repair costs vary depending on the issue but can range from $100 for wiring repairs to over $1,000 if the deployable steering column module needs replacement.
8. Can I clear the B2986 code without fixing it?
Clearing the code without addressing the root cause will not resolve the issue and may cause it to return, potentially compromising the vehicle's safety.
9. Is the B2986 code related to the airbag system?
Yes, it is directly related to the airbag and Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), specifically the deployable steering column component.
10. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the B2986 code?
Tools required may include an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing electrical circuits, and wiring diagrams for your specific vehicle.
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