B1491 - Understanding the B1491 Code in 2015-2018 Honda Accord and Other Models

Quick Answer

B1491 means: The B1491 code indicates a malfunction in the airbag system related to the passenger airbag status indicator.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $200 - $400 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B1491? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure passenger safety.

Common Questions

What does B1491 mean and how does it affect my car?

The B1491 code indicates a malfunction in the airbag system related to the passenger airbag status indicator. This can affect your car's safety features, as the airbag may not deploy properly in an accident, increasing the risk of injury.

What are the most common causes of B1491 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include a faulty passenger airbag sensor, damaged wiring, or issues with the airbag control module. Repair costs can range from $150 to $600 depending on the specific issue.

Can I drive my car with B1491 or should I stop immediately?

It is advisable to stop driving immediately if the B1491 code is active. The airbag system's malfunction poses a serious safety risk, and you should have it diagnosed as soon as possible.

How can I diagnose B1491 myself using GeekOBD APP?

You can use the GeekOBD APP to scan for DTCs, review freeze frame data, and monitor airbag system performance. Look for the B1491 code and any related codes to guide your troubleshooting.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B1491?

The B1491 code is frequently seen in 2015-2018 Honda Accord models, but it can also appear in other makes and models with similar airbag systems.

How can I prevent B1491 from happening again?

Regular maintenance, including inspections of the airbag system wiring and connections, can help prevent the B1491 code from reappearing. Keeping your vehicle’s software updated is also beneficial.

What is B1491?

The B1491 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a fault related to the vehicle's airbag system, specifically pointing to an issue with the passenger airbag status indicator. This code is commonly found in various models, including the 2015-2018 Honda Accord, and can signal that the airbag system is not functioning correctly. When this code appears, it means that the airbag module has detected a malfunction within the airbag system, often linked to wiring problems, faulty sensors, or issues with the airbag itself. If you ignore the B1491 code, you risk compromising the safety of your vehicle, especially regarding passenger protection during an accident. The airbag may not deploy as intended, leading to severe consequences. As a car owner, it's crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure your vehicle's safety features are fully operational. Regular maintenance and diagnostics can help prevent such issues. If you see the B1491 code, it’s a prompt to act quickly by taking your vehicle to a qualified technician who can perform a thorough diagnosis and repair the underlying problem.

System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B1491 is present:

  • The airbag warning light on the dashboard remains illuminated, indicating a fault in the airbag system.
  • The passenger airbag status indicator may show that the airbag is off, even when a passenger is seated.
  • A diagnostic scan may reveal the B1491 code along with other related codes, suggesting an issue with the airbag system.
  • In some cases, the airbag may not deploy during a collision, leading to increased risk of injury.
  • The vehicle may experience intermittent issues with the airbag system, creating uncertainty in its reliability.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B1491 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of the B1491 code is a faulty passenger airbag sensor, which is responsible for determining if the airbag should deploy. This issue occurs in about 60% of cases.
  2. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connectors in the airbag system, can lead to this code appearing. This is often due to wear and tear over time.
  3. Another cause can be a malfunction in the airbag control module itself, which can prevent the proper functioning of the airbag system. Regular checks and updates can help prevent these issues.
  4. Less common but serious causes include deployment of the airbag due to an accident, which may cause the system to malfunction and trigger the B1491 code.
  5. Rarely, software faults within the vehicle’s onboard computer can misinterpret sensor readings, leading to the B1491 code.

B1491 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Passenger Airbag Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty passenger airbag sensor to restore proper function.

  • Total: $200 - $400
  • Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring to restore connectivity.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 75%
Airbag Control Module Replacement

Replacing the airbag control module if it is found to be faulty.

  • Total: $300 - $600
  • Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for B1491
  • 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 B1491 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B1491. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Begin with a visual inspection of the airbag system wiring and connectors to identify any obvious damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Use a diagnostic tool, like the GeekOBD APP, to scan for the B1491 code and any additional codes that may provide further insight into the issue (10-15 minutes)
GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Test the passenger airbag sensor using a multimeter to ensure it is functioning correctly (20-30 minutes)
GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: If necessary, check the airbag control module for faults and ensure it is properly communicating with other vehicle systems (10-15 minutes)
GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: After repairs, clear the codes using the diagnostic tool and conduct a road test to verify that the airbag system is functioning properly (15-20 minutes)
GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

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: Passenger Airbag Sensor Replacement in 2016 Honda Accord

Vehicle: 2016 Honda Accord, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported that the airbag warning light was on, and the passenger airbag indicator showed 'off' despite a passenger present.

Diagnosis: A diagnostic scan revealed the B1491 code, indicating a problem with the passenger airbag sensor.

Solution: The technician replaced the faulty passenger airbag sensor, ensuring proper function of the airbag system.

Cost: $350 (sensor cost: $200, labor: $150)

Result: Post-repair, the airbag warning light turned off, and the passenger airbag indicator functioned correctly.

Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2017 Honda Civic

Vehicle: 2017 Honda Civic, 30,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced intermittent airbag warning light, with the B1491 code appearing during diagnostics.

Diagnosis: Inspection revealed damaged wiring in the airbag system due to moisture intrusion.

Solution: The technician repaired the wiring and replaced affected connectors to restore the airbag system functionality.

Cost: $250 (labor: $100, parts: $150)

Result: After the repair, the airbag system functioned normally, and no further codes appeared.

Diagnose B1491

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B1491
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes