Quick Answer
B1390 means: B1390 indicates an airbag system malfunction, primarily affecting the driver's side airbag.
Can I drive with B1390? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure airbag functionality.
Common Questions
What does B1390 mean and how does it affect my car?
B1390 indicates an airbag malfunction, primarily affecting the driver's side airbag. If this code appears, it means your airbag system may not deploy in an accident, posing significant safety risks. It's crucial to address this immediately.
What are the most common causes of B1390 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of B1390 include faulty airbag modules or sensors and damaged wiring. Repair costs can range from $150 for wiring repairs to $800 for module replacements, depending on the specific issue.
Can I drive my car with B1390 or should I stop immediately?
It's not safe to drive your vehicle if the B1390 code is present. The airbag system may not function correctly in a crash, so it's best to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose B1390 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve the B1390 code, review freeze frame data for context, and check for any related codes that can provide further insight into the problem.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B1390?
The B1390 code is frequently reported in vehicles like the 2010-2015 Honda Accord and 2012-2016 Toyota Camry. Always check for specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to airbag systems in these models.
How can I prevent B1390 from happening again?
To prevent B1390 from recurring, ensure regular vehicle maintenance, avoid DIY modifications near airbag components, and have any airbag-related repairs performed by certified technicians.
What is B1390?
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B1390 indicates a malfunction in the airbag system, specifically related to the driver's side airbag or its related components. This code is often triggered by issues such as faulty connections, damaged wiring, or problems within the airbag module itself. When the B1390 code is present, you may notice that the airbag warning light remains illuminated on your dashboard, warning you that the airbag system is not functioning correctly. It's crucial to address this issue promptly, as the airbag may not deploy in the event of an accident, increasing the risk of injury. Commonly reported in vehicles like the 2010-2015 Honda Accord and 2012-2016 Toyota Camry, this code reflects a serious safety concern. If you've scanned your vehicle's OBD2 system and encountered this code, it's vital to seek professional assistance or follow a thorough diagnostic process to ensure your vehicle's safety features are operational. Ignoring this code can lead to significant safety hazards, as it directly impacts your airbag system's reliability.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B1390 is present:
- The airbag warning light stays on constantly, indicating a malfunction in the airbag system.
- You may hear unusual beeping or chimes when starting the vehicle, which can indicate an issue with the airbag system.
- In some cases, the vehicle may experience a loss of power to other electrical components as the system tries to reset.
- You might notice that the seatbelt tensioners are not functioning properly, which can diminish safety during a crash.
- Intermittent warnings or alerts on the dashboard related to the airbag system may appear, adding to driver confusion.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B1390 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a faulty airbag module or sensor, accounting for about 60% of cases. These components can wear out over time or suffer damage from moisture.
- Second, damaged wiring or poor connections are often to blame, especially in older vehicles where wires may corrode or get pinched, affecting airbag performance.
- Another cause can be installation errors after repairs or modifications. Always ensure that professionals handle airbag-related work to avoid issues.
- Less common but serious causes include a failed crash sensor or ECU fault, which can lead to system failures.
- Rarely, software glitches in the vehicle’s onboard computer can trigger the B1390 code, requiring a software update to resolve.
B1390 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Airbag Module Replacement
Replacing a faulty airbag module can resolve the B1390 code effectively.
- Total: $300 - $800
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair or Replacement
If damaged wiring is the issue, repairing or replacing the affected wires can fix the problem.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for B1390
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional B1390 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B1390. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components (20-30 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Airbag Module Replacement on 2013 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2013 Honda Accord, 75,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported persistent airbag warning light and received the B1390 code.
Diagnosis: After scanning with GeekOBD APP and a thorough visual inspection, a faulty airbag module was identified as the root cause.
Solution: The airbag module was replaced with an OEM part, and the system was reset.
Cost: $650 (parts: $400 for module, $250 for labor)
Result: The airbag system was restored to full functionality, and the warning light was cleared successfully.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2015 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2015 Toyota Camry, 60,000 miles
Problem: The airbag light was on, and the B1390 code was present after a minor accident.
Diagnosis: A diagnostic scan revealed damaged wiring in the airbag circuit that needed repair.
Solution: The damaged wires were replaced, and connections were secured.
Cost: $250 (parts: $50 for wiring, $200 for labor)
Result: After repairs, the airbag system was tested and confirmed to be operational.