Code Definition

B1996 — Passenger Side, Side mount Airbag Circuit Short to Vbatt

System: Body  |  Type: Manufacturer-Specific  |  Make: Generic

About B1996

B1996 is a manufacturer-specific body diagnostic trouble code. It belongs to the B-prefix family of codes, which covers body, interior, airbag, or comfort-electronics faults.

When B1996 is stored, the module has detected a short-circuit (voltage pulled to ground or to supply) in the monitored circuit.

Scanning & clearing: Body (B) codes are often stored in the body control module, airbag module, or climate module. A basic OBD-II tool usually will not read body codes — an enhanced or OEM-level scan tool is typically required.

B1996 is a manufacturer-specific code. The same code string on a different make may have a different meaning. Always confirm the code's definition against the vehicle's service information for the specific make and model under test.

Code Information

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) control module continuously monitors the integrity of all airbag deployment circuits, including the passenger side mount (side impact) airbag circuit. Code B1996 sets when the SRS module detects that the passenger side mount airbag circuit is shorted to battery voltage, meaning the circuit is reading a positive voltage when it should be at a controlled reference potential. This fault can be caused by chafed wiring in the door jamb or seat harness contacting a power source, a damaged airbag squib connector, water intrusion, or an internal short within the...

Join TaT to view the complete code information and diagnostic details.

Quick Facts