B1915 – Air Bag Driver Circuit Failure

The ODBII code B1915 indicates a failure in the airbag driver circuit, which may prevent the airbag from deploying properly in the event of a collision.

The severity of ODBII code B1915 is high.

Common Causes For: B1914 Air Bag Crash Sensors #1 / #2 Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty airbag module
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Short circuit in the airbag circuit
• Open circuit in the airbag circuit
• Corroded connectors
• Faulty clock spring
• Malfunctioning airbag sensor
• Issues with the vehicle’s body control module (BCM)

Common misdiagnosis for B1915 Air Bag Driver Circuit Failure

• Faulty airbag module
• Wiring issues or shorts in the airbag circuit
• Defective seat belt pretensioner
• Malfunctioning airbag sensor
• Issues with the vehicle’s body control module (BCM)
• Faulty connectors or terminals in the airbag system
• Low battery voltage or electrical system issues
• Incorrectly installed or damaged airbag components

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1915, which indicates an “Air Bag Driver Circuit Failure,” 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 B1915 code. Check for any other related codes that may provide additional context.
• Visual Inspection:
• Inspect the airbag system wiring and connectors, especially those related to the driver airbag. Look for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Check the condition of the airbag module and ensure that it is securely mounted.
• Check the Airbag Module:
• Ensure that the airbag module is functioning properly. If the module is damaged or has internal faults, it may need to be replaced.
• Test the Driver Airbag:
• If possible, perform a resistance test on the driver airbag. Consult the vehicle’s service manual for the correct resistance specifications. A reading outside the specified range may indicate a faulty airbag.
• Inspect the Clock Spring:
• The clock spring allows for the connection of the airbag and steering wheel controls while allowing for steering wheel rotation. A faulty clock spring can cause airbag circuit issues. Inspect and test the clock spring for continuity and proper operation.
• Check for Short Circuits:
• Use a multimeter to check for short circuits in the wiring harness leading to the airbag. Look for any exposed wires that may be grounding out.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive:
• After performing any repairs or adjustments, clear the trouble codes using the OBD-II scanner. Take the vehicle for 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 provide additional guidance.
• Professional Diagnosis:
• If the issue persists after performing the above steps, consider seeking help from a professional technician or an automotive electrician who specializes in airbag systems.
• Safety Precautions:
• Always take necessary safety precautions when working with airbag systems. Disconnect the vehicle’s battery and wait for a minimum of 10 minutes before working on the airbag components to avoid accidental deployment. By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the B1915 code related to the airbag driver circuit failure.