B1938 Mercury Code - Air Bag Passenger Circuit Short To Ground Fault
Quick Answer
The B1938 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for Mercury vehicles indicates an issue with the airbag passenger circuit, specifically a short to ground fault. Common causes include Damaged wiring in the airbag circuit, Faulty passenger airbag sensor, Malfunctioning airbag control module. 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
- B1938 Mercury indicates Air Bag Passenger Circuit Short To Ground Fault.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Damaged wiring in the airbag circuit, Faulty passenger airbag sensor, Malfunctioning airbag control module.
- 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 B1938 Mercury Description
The B1938 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for Mercury vehicles indicates an issue with the airbag passenger circuit, specifically a short to ground fault. This means that there is an unintended connection between the passenger airbag circuit and the vehicle's ground, which can potentially compromise the proper deployment of the airbag system in the event of a collision.
Common Causes of B1938 Mercury
- Damaged wiring in the airbag circuit
- Faulty passenger airbag sensor
- Malfunctioning airbag control module
- Corrosion or poor connections in the airbag system
- Impact or collision that damaged the airbag system components
Symptoms of B1938 Mercury
- Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard
- Inoperative passenger airbag
- Intermittent airbag deployment
- Fault code stored in the vehicle's computer system
How to Fix B1938 Mercury
- Diagnose the issue using a scan tool to retrieve the specific fault code and pinpoint the location of the short to ground fault.
- Inspect the wiring harness and connectors in the airbag passenger circuit for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace any faulty components as needed.
- Test the passenger airbag sensor and the airbag control module to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace any defective parts.
- Clear the fault code from the vehicle's computer system and perform a test to verify that the airbag system is operating properly.
- Reset the airbag warning light on the dashboard to ensure that it does not illuminate again.
Cost to Fix B1938 Mercury
The cost of repairing a B1938 airbag passenger circuit short to ground fault can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific components that need to be replaced. On average, the repair costs for this issue can range from $200 to $500, including parts and labor. However, it is important to note that labor rates at auto repair shops can vary, with hourly rates typically ranging from $80 to $150. Additionally, the cost of parts for the airbag system can be expensive, so it is advisable to consult with a professional technician to get an accurate estimate for the repair.
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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 B1938 Mercury Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B1938 in a Mercury related to the airbag passenger circuit short to ground fault?
- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and potential non-deployment of the passenger side airbag during a collision.
2. What can cause the OBDII code B1938 in a Mercury indicating a short to ground fault in the airbag passenger circuit?
- Possible causes can include damaged wiring, a faulty airbag module, a defective passenger airbag, or a problem with the passenger seat sensor.
3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B1938 in my Mercury to confirm a short to ground fault in the airbag passenger circuit?
- Diagnosis typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the fault code, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the components in the passenger airbag system.
4. Is it safe to drive my Mercury with the OBDII code B1938 indicating a short to ground fault in the airbag passenger circuit?
- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this fault present, as it may compromise the functionality of the passenger airbag system in the event of a collision.
5. Can I reset the OBDII code B1938 in my Mercury related to the airbag passenger circuit short to ground fault?
- While clearing the fault code may temporarily turn off the warning light, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the fault to ensure the safety of the airbag system.
6. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code B1938 in a Mercury for the airbag passenger circuit short to ground fault?
- Repair costs can vary depending on the specific cause of the fault, but they may involve replacing damaged wiring, repairing or replacing components in the airbag system, and conducting system testing.
7. Are there any DIY repair tips for addressing the OBDII code B1938 in a Mercury indicating a short to ground fault in the airbag passenger circuit?
- DIY repair for this fault is not recommended due to the safety implications of working on the airbag system. It is best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired by a qualified automotive technician.
8. How long does it take to repair the OBDII code B1938 in a Mercury for the airbag passenger circuit short to ground fault?
- Repair times can vary depending on the exact cause of the fault and the extent of the repairs needed. It is best to consult with a professional technician for an accurate estimate of repair time.
9. Can the OBDII code B1938 in a Mercury be triggered by factors other than a short to ground fault in the airbag passenger circuit?
- While the code typically points to a short to ground fault in the airbag passenger circuit, other factors such as a faulty sensor or module could potentially trigger the code. A thorough diagnosis is needed.
10. Is it necessary to have the OBDII code B1938 in a Mercury related to the airbag passenger circuit short to ground fault repaired immediately?
- Yes, it is crucial to address this fault promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the airbag system and maintain the safety of the vehicle occupants in the event of an accident.
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