Engine-CodesGeneric – B1942

B1942 Code - Short to Ground in Selectable Force Limiter Squib Right Circuit

Quick Answer

The diagnostic trouble code B1942 indicates a short to ground in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit. Common causes include Damaged wiring or connectors in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit, Faulty squib or airbag module, Corrosion in the electrical connections. 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
B1942 indicates Short to Ground in Selectable Force Limiter Squib Right Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Damaged wiring or connectors in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit, Faulty squib or airbag module, Corrosion in the electrical connections.
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 10, 2024
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Code B1942 Description

The diagnostic trouble code B1942 indicates a short to ground in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit. In simpler terms, this code suggests that there is an issue with the right side airbag squib circuit in the vehicle. The squib is an electrical component that initiates the deployment of the airbag in the event of a collision. A short to ground means that there is an unintended connection between the circuit and the ground, which can result in a malfunction in the airbag system.

OBDII Code B1942 - Short to Ground in Selectable Force Limiter Squib Right Circuit
B1942 Code - Short to Ground in Selectable Force Limiter Squib Right Circuit

Common Causes of B1942

  1. Damaged wiring or connectors in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit
  2. Faulty squib or airbag module
  3. Corrosion in the electrical connections
  4. Impact damage to the airbag system components
  5. Manufacturing defects in the airbag system components

Symptoms of B1942

  1. Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  2. Inability to turn off the airbag warning light
  3. Non-deployment of the airbag in a collision
  4. Fault codes related to the airbag system stored in the vehicle's computer
  5. Intermittent issues with the airbag system

How to Fix B1942

  1. Diagnose the issue with a professional automotive scanner to confirm the specific cause of the short to ground in the squib circuit.
  2. Inspect the wiring and connectors in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit for any damage or corrosion.
  3. Test the squib and airbag module for proper functionality and replace if necessary.
  4. Clear the fault codes from the vehicle's computer and reset the airbag system.
  5. Conduct a thorough test of the airbag system to ensure proper deployment in a controlled environment.

Cost to Fix B1942

The cost of repairing a short to ground in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the extent of the damage. In general, the repair may range from $200 to $500, including parts and labor. However, it is important to note that diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary significantly. It is recommended to consult with a professional technician to get an accurate estimate for the repair.

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Code B1942 Information for Specific Makes

  • B1942 Ford — Left Front Impact Sensor Fee/Return Circuit Open
  • B1942 Lexus — Short to Ground in Selectable Force Limiter Squib Right Circuit
  • B1942 Lincoln — Left Front Impact Sensor Fee/Return Circuit Open
  • B1942 Mercury — Left Front Impact Sensor Fee/Return Circuit Open
  • B1942 Scion — Short to Ground in Selectable Force Limiter Squib Right Circuit
  • B1942 Toyota — Short to Ground in Selectable Force Limiter Squib Right Circuit

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 B1942 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B1942 (Short to Ground in Selectable Force Limiter Squib Right Circuit)?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, non-deployment of the airbag, and potential issues with the right side airbag system.

2. What are possible causes of OBDII code B1942?

- Possible causes include damaged wiring, a short to ground in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit, a faulty squib (airbag) module, or a poor electrical connection.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code B1942?

- Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the fault code, inspecting the wiring and connectors in the selectable force limiter squib right circuit, and performing continuity and resistance tests.

4. What are the repair options for OBDII code B1942?

- Repair options may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, addressing any short to ground issues, replacing the squib module if necessary, and ensuring all connections are secure.

5. Can I drive my vehicle with OBDII code B1942?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an unresolved airbag system issue indicated by OBDII code B1942. Safety systems like airbags are crucial for protecting occupants in the event of a collision.

6. How serious is OBDII code B1942?

- OBDII code B1942 is a serious issue as it indicates a fault in the airbag system, which could result in non-deployment of the airbag in the event of a crash, potentially increasing the risk of injury.

7. Can I reset OBDII code B1942 without fixing the underlying issue?

- Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will only temporarily clear the fault code. The issue causing the code will persist, and the airbag system may still be compromised.

8. How long does it take to repair OBDII code B1942?

- The repair time for OBDII code B1942 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue. Simple fixes like repairing a damaged wire may take less time compared to replacing a faulty squib module.

9. Is OBDII code B1942 a common problem in vehicles?

- While OBDII code B1942 specifically may not be extremely common, airbag system issues related to shorts to ground or wiring faults can occur in vehicles and should be taken seriously.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B1942 at home?

- DIY enthusiasts with knowledge of automotive electrical systems may be able to diagnose and repair OBDII code B1942 at home. However, working on airbag systems can be complex and dangerous, so caution is advised.

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