Engine-CodesLincoln – B1939 Lincoln

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

Quick Answer

The B1939 diagnostic trouble code for Lincoln vehicles indicates a fault in the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit, specifically a short to ground. Common causes include Damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit, Faulty airbag passenger pressure switch, Corrosion or moisture intrusion in the 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 Lincoln indicates Air Bag Passenger Pressure Switch Circuit Short To Ground Fault.
Common causes
Common causes include Damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit, Faulty airbag passenger pressure switch, Corrosion or moisture intrusion in the 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 14, 2024
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Code B1939 Lincoln Description

The B1939 diagnostic trouble code for Lincoln vehicles indicates a fault in the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit, specifically a short to ground. The airbag passenger pressure switch is a crucial component of the vehicle's supplemental restraint system (SRS), responsible for detecting the presence of a passenger in the front passenger seat and adjusting the deployment of the airbag accordingly. A short to ground fault in this circuit can disrupt the proper functioning of the airbag system, potentially leading to the airbag not deploying in the event of a collision or deploying unexpectedly.

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

Common Causes of B1939 Lincoln

  1. Damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit.
  2. Faulty airbag passenger pressure switch.
  3. Corrosion or moisture intrusion in the circuit.
  4. Short to ground in the wiring harness.
  5. Issues with the passenger seat occupancy sensor.

Symptoms of B1939 Lincoln

  1. Illumination of the airbag warning light on the instrument panel.
  2. Inability to turn off the airbag warning light even after resetting it.
  3. Intermittent or non-deployment of the passenger airbag.
  4. Diagnostic trouble codes related to the airbag system stored in the vehicle's computer.
  5. Loss of communication with the passenger pressure switch module.

How to Fix B1939 Lincoln

  1. Begin by conducting a thorough visual inspection of the wiring harness, connectors, and components in the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit to identify any visible damage or corrosion.
  2. Use a multimeter to test the continuity and resistance of the wiring to pinpoint the location of the short to ground fault.
  3. Replace any damaged wiring, connectors, or components in the circuit as necessary.
  4. Test the airbag passenger pressure switch to ensure it is functioning correctly and replace it if found to be faulty.
  5. Clear the diagnostic trouble codes from the vehicle's computer and perform a test to verify that the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix B1939 Lincoln

The typical repair costs for addressing a B1939 code related to the airbag passenger pressure switch circuit short to ground fault can range from $200 to $500, including parts and labor. However, it is important to note that the actual cost may vary depending on the specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops, which can be influenced by factors such as the vehicle's make and model, location, and engine type. It is advisable to check with local auto repair shops for a more accurate estimate based on the individual circumstances.

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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 Lincoln Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B1939 in a Lincoln related to the air bag passenger pressure switch circuit short to ground fault?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light being illuminated on the dashboard, potential non-deployment of the passenger side airbag, and diagnostic trouble code B1939 being stored in the vehicle's computer.

2. What are potential causes of the B1939 fault code in a Lincoln's airbag system?

- The B1939 fault code can be caused by issues such as a short to ground in the passenger pressure switch circuit, damaged wiring or connectors, a faulty passenger pressure switch, or a malfunctioning airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the B1939 fault code in my Lincoln's airbag system?

- Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code B1939, conducting a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors in the passenger pressure switch circuit, and performing component testing to identify the root cause of the short to ground fault.

4. What are the potential risks of driving with the B1939 fault code unresolved in a Lincoln?

- Driving with the B1939 fault code unresolved can pose a safety risk as the passenger side airbag may not deploy in the event of a collision, potentially increasing the risk of injury to the passenger in the front seat.

5. Can I repair the B1939 fault code in my Lincoln's airbag system myself?

- While diagnosing the issue may be possible for some DIY enthusiasts, repairing the B1939 fault code usually requires specialized knowledge and tools. It is recommended to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician for proper diagnosis and repair.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair the B1939 fault code in a Lincoln's airbag system?

- The cost of repairing the B1939 fault code can vary depending on the root cause of the issue. Costs may include parts replacement, labor charges, and diagnostic fees. It is advisable to obtain quotes from different repair shops for an accurate estimate.

7. Are there any preventive maintenance steps to avoid the B1939 fault code in a Lincoln's airbag system?

- Regularly inspecting the airbag system components, ensuring proper wiring connections, and addressing any warning lights or unusual behavior promptly can help prevent issues like the B1939 fault code from occurring.

8. Can the B1939 fault code be intermittent, causing the airbag warning light to come on and off in a Lincoln?

- Yes, the B1939 fault code can sometimes be intermittent, leading to sporadic illumination of the airbag warning light. It is important to address intermittent issues promptly to prevent potential safety risks.

9. Is it safe to reset the airbag system to clear the B1939 fault code in a Lincoln without fixing the underlying issue?

- It is not recommended to reset the airbag system to clear the fault code without addressing the root cause of the issue. Resetting the system without proper repair may lead to the fault code recurring and potentially compromising the airbag system's functionality.

10. How long does it typically take to repair the B1939 fault code in a Lincoln's airbag system?

- The repair time for the B1939 fault code can vary depending on the complexity of the issue and the availability of parts. It is advisable to consult with a professional technician to get an accurate estimate of the repair duration.

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