What Does B1942 Mean?
This code indicates the airbag control module (ACM/SRS) has detected an open circuit in the feed or return wire path for crash sensor #2. An open circuit means electrical continuity has been lost between the control module and the crash sensor, preventing the module from receiving impact data. This compromises the supplemental restraint system's ability to detect collisions and deploy airbags appropriately.
Safety Warning
NOT safe to continue normal driving. The airbag system is compromised and may not deploy properly in a collision, significantly increasing injury risk to vehicle occupants. Repair immediately before operating the vehicle.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or broken wiring harness to crash sensor #2, often from collision damage, corrosion, or chafing
30%
Loose, corroded, or disconnected electrical connector at crash sensor #2 or control module
15%
Failed crash sensor #2 with internal open circuit
10%
Damaged airbag control module with internal circuit failure
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of crash sensor #2 location (typically front bumper area, side impact zones, or B-pillar depending on sensor designation) for physical damage, corrosion, or disconnected wiring. Check connector for proper seating, bent pins, water intrusion, and corrosion.
2
Step 2: Disconnect crash sensor #2 connector and measure resistance across sensor terminals using a digital multimeter. Typical crash sensors should read 1-10 ohms depending on manufacturer. An infinite reading confirms sensor internal failure.
3
Step 3: With sensor disconnected, check continuity from sensor connector terminals back to the airbag control module connector pins using wiring diagrams to identify proper pin locations. Resistance should be less than 5 ohms per wire. Infinite resistance indicates broken wire or poor connection.
4
Step 4: Inspect wiring harness routing for pinch points, sharp edges, or areas where harness passes through body panels where wire insulation may be damaged. Check for splice points or previous collision repairs that may have damaged circuits.
5
Step 5: If all wiring and connections test good, substitute a known-good crash sensor or measure supply voltage at sensor connector (typically 5V reference) to verify control module output. Clear codes and perform sensor self-test using scan tool active tests.
6
Step 6: After repairs, clear codes, perform airbag system initialization procedure per manufacturer specifications, verify airbag warning lamp extinguishes, and road test to confirm repair is complete with no code recurrence.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the airbag control module (ACM/SRS) has detected an open circuit in the feed or return wire path for crash sensor #2. An open circuit means electrical continuity has been lost between the control module and the crash sensor, preventing the module from receiving impact data. This ...
The most common cause of B1942 (Air Bag Crash Sensor #2 Feed/Return Circuit Open) is: Damaged or broken wiring harness to crash sensor #2, often from collision damage, corrosion, or chafing
Typical repair costs for B1942 range from $150 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
NOT safe to continue normal driving. The airbag system is compromised and may not deploy properly in a collision, significantly increasing injury risk to vehicle occupants. Repair immediately before operating the vehicle.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1942 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS/Airbag)
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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