OBD Guide

B1938

Air Bag Passenger Circuit Short To Ground Fault

B1938 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Air Bag Passenger Circuit Short To Ground Fault. Common causes: damage to the airbag wiring harness, airbag squib short circuit. Estimated repair cost: $56–167.

Severity
🔴 High
Can you drive?
Do not drive — repair immediately
Approx. repair cost
$56–167 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Restraint warning light is on
  • Front passenger airbag disabled
  • Error message on the on-board computer display

Causes

  • Damage to the airbag wiring harness
  • Airbag squib short circuit
  • Corrosion or oxidation of contacts
  • Airbag module malfunction
  • Mechanical damage to wiring

How to Fix

  1. Diagnose the passive safety system using a scanner
  2. Check the continuity and resistance of the airbag circuit
  3. Inspect the wiring harness for damage
  4. Check contacts and connectors for oxidation
  5. Replace damaged components if necessary
  6. Clear the memory of the control unit and check the operation of the system

Related codes

FAQ

What does the B1938 code mean?

B1938 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Air Bag Passenger Circuit Short To Ground Fault

What causes a B1938 error code?

The most common causes of B1938 include: Damage to the airbag wiring harness; Airbag squib short circuit; Corrosion or oxidation of contacts; Airbag module malfunction.

How do I fix a B1938 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix B1938: Diagnose the passive safety system using a scanner. Check the continuity and resistance of the airbag circuit. Inspect the wiring harness for damage. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with B1938?

Do not drive — repair immediately

How much does it cost to fix B1938?

The estimated repair cost for B1938 is $56–167. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat