B1914 – Air Bag Crash Sensors #1 / #2 Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1914 indicates a short circuit to ground in the airbag crash sensors #1 or #2, which can affect the airbag system’s functionality and safety.

The severity of ODBII code B1914 is typically considered moderate to high.

Common Causes For: B1913 Air Bag Driver/Passenger Circuit Short To Ground

• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Shorted circuit due to insulation wear
• Faulty airbag crash sensor
• Corroded connectors
• Poor ground connection
• Water intrusion in the sensor area
• Improper installation or repair work
• Faulty airbag control module

Common misdiagnosis for B1914 Air Bag Crash Sensors #1 / #2 Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty airbag control module
• Defective crash sensors
• Wiring issues unrelated to the sensors
• Faulty seat belt pretensioners
• Incorrectly installed or damaged connectors
• Issues with the vehicle’s body control module
• Problems with the vehicle’s power supply or ground connections

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with OBD-II code B1914, which indicates a problem with the airbag crash sensors #1 and #2 circuit short to ground, it’s important to follow a systematic approach to troubleshoot the issue. Here are common troubleshooting steps:

• Scan Tool Verification: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the B1914 code and check for any other related codes that may provide additional context.
• Visual Inspection: Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the airbag crash sensors. Look for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Check the sensor mounting points to ensure they are secure and not damaged.
• Check for Shorts to Ground: Use a multimeter to test the wiring harness for continuity. Disconnect the battery and the airbag module before testing.
• Check the resistance of the sensor circuits to ground. A low resistance reading may indicate a short to ground.
• Inspect the Crash Sensors: If the wiring appears intact, inspect the crash sensors themselves. Look for physical damage or signs of malfunction.
• If possible, test the sensors according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Check the Airbag Module: Inspect the airbag control module for any signs of damage or corrosion. Ensure that all connections are secure.
• If the module is suspected to be faulty, it may need to be tested or replaced.
• Repair or Replace Faulty Components: If any damaged wiring, connectors, or sensors are found, repair or replace them as necessary.
• Ensure that all connections are clean and secure.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: After repairs, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner.
• Reconnect the battery and perform a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Check for any TSBs related to the airbag system for your specific vehicle make and model. There may be known issues or recalls that could be relevant.
• Professional Diagnosis: If the issue persists after following the above steps, consider seeking help from a professional technician who specializes in automotive electrical systems or airbag systems.Safety Precautions – Always take necessary precautions when working with airbag systems, as they can deploy unexpectedly. Disconnect the battery and wait for a period (usually 10-15 minutes) before working on the system to ensure safety. By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue related to the B1914 code.