Engine-CodesFord – B1939 Ford

B1939 Ford Code - Air Bag Passenger Pressure Switch Circuit Short To Ground Fault

Quick Answer

The B1939 Ford diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates an issue with the Air Bag Passenger Pressure Switch Circuit Short To Ground Fault. Common causes include Wiring or harness damage leading to a short to ground, Faulty passenger pressure switch, Corrosion or poor connection in the airbag system circuit. 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
B1939 Ford indicates Air Bag Passenger Pressure Switch Circuit Short To Ground Fault.
Common causes
Common causes include Wiring or harness damage leading to a short to ground, Faulty passenger pressure switch, Corrosion or poor connection in the airbag system circuit.
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.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 18, 2024
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Code B1939 Ford Description

The B1939 Ford diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates an issue with the Air Bag Passenger Pressure Switch Circuit Short To Ground Fault. In vehicles equipped with airbag systems, the passenger pressure switch is a crucial component that detects the presence of a passenger in the front passenger seat. This information is used to determine whether to deploy the airbag in the event of a collision.

OBDII Code B1939 Ford - Air Bag Passenger Pressure Switch Circuit Short To Ground Fault
B1939 Ford Code - Air Bag Passenger Pressure Switch Circuit Short To Ground Fault

Common Causes of B1939 Ford

  1. Wiring or harness damage leading to a short to ground.
  2. Faulty passenger pressure switch.
  3. Corrosion or poor connection in the airbag system circuit.
  4. Electrical issues in the airbag control module.
  5. Impact or damage to the passenger seat affecting the pressure switch.

Symptoms of B1939 Ford

  1. Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard.
  2. Airbag system failure message displayed on the instrument cluster.
  3. Inability to turn off the passenger airbag when needed.
  4. Intermittent or non-deployment of the passenger airbag during a collision.

How to Fix B1939 Ford

  1. Begin by diagnosing the specific cause of the short to ground fault in the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit using a diagnostic scan tool.
  2. Inspect the wiring and harness connected to the passenger pressure switch for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace as necessary.
  3. Test the passenger pressure switch for proper functionality and replace if found to be faulty.
  4. Check the airbag control module for any electrical issues or faults and address them accordingly.
  5. Clear the DTC from the vehicle's memory using the diagnostic scan tool and perform a test to ensure that the airbag system functions correctly.

Cost to Fix B1939 Ford

The typical repair costs for addressing a B1939 Ford code related to the Air Bag Passenger Pressure Switch Circuit Short To Ground Fault can range from $200 to $500, including parts and labor. However, it's important to note that the actual cost may vary depending on the specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops. Rates can vary based on factors such as the location of the repair shop, the make and model of the vehicle, and the type of engine. It's advisable to inquire about local rates to get a more accurate estimate for this 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.

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 B1939 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1939 Ford?

The common symptoms of OBDII code B1939 Ford include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, potential loss of airbag functionality, and the possibility of related warning messages displayed on the instrument cluster.

2. What does the OBDII code B1939 Ford indicate?

The OBDII code B1939 for Ford vehicles indicates a fault in the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit due to a short to ground fault.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1939 Ford?

Possible causes of OBDII code B1939 Ford include a short to ground in the passenger pressure switch circuit, damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, or a faulty passenger pressure switch.

4. How serious is OBDII code B1939 Ford?

OBDII code B1939 Ford is a serious issue as it involves the airbag system, which is crucial for occupant safety in the event of a collision. It is recommended to address this issue promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the airbag system.

5. Can I drive my vehicle with OBDII code B1939 Ford?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with OBDII code B1939 Ford present, as the airbag system may not function correctly in the event of an accident. It is advised to have the issue diagnosed and repaired by a qualified technician before driving the vehicle.

6. How can OBDII code B1939 Ford be diagnosed?

Diagnosing OBDII code B1939 Ford typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the code, followed by inspecting the airbag system components, wiring, and connectors for any visible damage or shorts to ground.

7. How is OBDII code B1939 Ford repaired?

Repairing OBDII code B1939 Ford may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring, connectors, or components in the airbag system. It is recommended to follow manufacturer-specific repair procedures outlined in the service manual.

8. Can OBDII code B1939 Ford be reset without repairs?

While clearing the fault code may temporarily turn off the warning light, it is not recommended to reset OBDII code B1939 Ford without addressing the underlying issue. The fault code will likely reappear if the root cause is not fixed.

9. Are there any DIY repair tips for OBDII code B1939 Ford?

DIY repair of OBDII code B1939 Ford is not recommended due to the critical nature of the airbag system. It is best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired by a qualified automotive technician to ensure proper resolution.

10. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B1939 Ford?

The cost of repairing OBDII code B1939 Ford can vary depending on the cause of the fault, labor rates, and parts needed for the repair. It is advisable to obtain a diagnosis and repair estimate from a reputable automotive service provider.

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