Engine-CodesGeneric – B1B10

B1B10 Code - Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The B1B10 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a problem with the driver knee bolster squib circuit being lower than the expected voltage range. Common causes include Faulty driver knee bolster squib, Wiring issues such as short circuits or open circuits in the squib circuit, Poor electrical connections 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
B1B10 indicates Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Low.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty driver knee bolster squib, Wiring issues such as short circuits or open circuits in the squib circuit, Poor electrical connections 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 13, 2024
💬 Need more help? Ask Auto Expert for instant answers — it's free!
AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play

Code B1B10 Description

The B1B10 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a problem with the driver knee bolster squib circuit being lower than the expected voltage range. The driver knee bolster squib is part of the supplemental restraint system (SRS) in a vehicle, specifically designed to deploy the airbag located in the driver's knee area in the event of a collision. When this circuit is detected as having low voltage, it means that there may be an issue with the deployment of the airbag in case of an accident, potentially compromising the safety of the driver.

OBDII Code B1B10 - Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Low
B1B10 Code - Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Low

Common Causes of B1B10

  1. Faulty driver knee bolster squib.
  2. Wiring issues such as short circuits or open circuits in the squib circuit.
  3. Poor electrical connections in the circuit.
  4. Issues with the SRS control module.
  5. Impact or damage to the driver knee area causing a malfunction in the squib circuit.

Symptoms of B1B10

  1. Illuminated SRS warning light on the dashboard.
  2. Inability to reset the SRS warning light after clearing the code.
  3. Loss of functionality of the driver knee airbag.
  4. Diagnostic trouble code B1B10 stored in the vehicle's computer system.

How to Fix B1B10

  1. Begin by conducting a thorough inspection of the driver knee bolster squib circuit, checking for any visible damage or loose connections.
  2. Test the driver knee bolster squib using a multimeter to determine if it is functioning correctly.
  3. Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage, corrosion, or poor connections, repairing or replacing as necessary.
  4. Clear the DTC from the vehicle's computer system using a diagnostic scan tool.
  5. Test the SRS system to ensure that the driver knee airbag deploys as intended after the repair.

Cost to Fix B1B10

The cost of repairing a B1B10 code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. In general, replacing a faulty driver knee bolster squib can cost between $200 and $500, including parts and labor. However, if the issue is related to wiring or the SRS control module, the cost may increase. Additionally, diagnostic time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary, typically ranging from $80 to $150 per hour. It is recommended to consult with a professional mechanic to get an accurate estimate based on the specific circumstances of your vehicle.

When is the Code Detected?

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the ORC detects a short to ground on the driver knee bolster squib circuit for more than 2.5 seconds. This DTC transitions from active to stored when the ORC sees a recovery from a short to ground condition for greater than 2.5 seconds.

Need more information about the B1B10 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1B10 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1B10 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Code B1B10 Information for Specific Makes

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 B1B10 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B1B10 - Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Low?

- Common symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard and potential non-deployment of the driver's knee airbag during a collision.

2. What could cause OBDII code B1B10 to trigger?

- The code B1B10 may be triggered by a faulty driver knee bolster squib circuit, which could be caused by wiring issues, a defective squib, or a faulty airbag control module.

3. How serious is OBDII code B1B10 - Driver Knee Bolster Squib Circuit Low?

- This code indicates a potential issue with the driver's knee airbag system, which could compromise occupant safety in the event of a collision. It is important to address this issue promptly.

4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code B1B10 present?

- It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it could mean that the driver's knee airbag system is not functioning correctly. It is best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

5. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B1B10?

- Diagnosing the cause of this code typically requires a professional scan tool to access the airbag system's codes and data. A thorough inspection of the wiring and components related to the driver knee bolster squib circuit is also necessary.

6. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code B1B10?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring, replacing a faulty driver knee bolster squib, or reprogramming the airbag control module. It is recommended to follow manufacturer repair procedures.

7. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B1B10?

- The cost of repairing OBDII code B1B10 can vary depending on the underlying cause of the issue, the extent of the repairs needed, and labor rates. It is advisable to obtain estimates from qualified automotive service providers.

8. Can I reset OBDII code B1B10 without fixing the underlying issue?

- While it is possible to clear the code with a scan tool, resetting the code without addressing the underlying problem will not resolve the issue with the driver knee bolster squib circuit. The code is likely to reappear until the problem is fixed.

9. Are there any safety precautions I should take when working on OBDII code B1B10?

- When working on the airbag system related to code B1B10, it is crucial to follow proper safety procedures to avoid accidental deployment of the airbags. It is recommended to disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait for a specified time before servicing the airbag system.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code B1B10 at home?

- Due to the complexity and safety implications of working on the airbag system, it is generally recommended to have OBDII code B1B10 diagnosed and repaired by a qualified automotive technician or service center with the necessary tools and expertise.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B1B10 OBDII Code

Code B1B10 comments

No comments found for this page.