Airbags

B1015 — Driver Airbag Circuit Fault

Severity: high Drive with care, to a shop

What B1015 means

The SRS control module constantly checks the resistance of the driver airbag squib circuit, which runs from the module through the wiring and clock spring to the airbag in the steering wheel. If resistance is out of range or the circuit is open, B1015 is stored and the SRS light comes on. The exact meaning varies by manufacturer, and on some makes it points to a VIN or configuration mismatch.

Symptoms

  • SRS or airbag warning light on
  • Light came on after steering wheel, airbag or column work
  • Horn or steering wheel buttons not working
  • Cruise or steering wheel controls acting up
  • Other safety systems disabled, depending on the make

Possible causes

  1. Worn or broken clock spring
  2. Airbag connector loose or not seated after repairs
  3. Internal open circuit in the driver airbag module
  4. Damaged or corroded wiring in the column or under the seat
  5. VIN or configuration mismatch in the SRS module, such as after replacement
  6. Failed SRS control module (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan with a tool that reads SRS codes and note freeze-frame data and any other airbag codes
  2. Find out if the steering wheel, airbag or column was recently serviced
  3. Disconnect the battery, wait the time specified by the manufacturer, then inspect and reseat the airbag connector at the wheel
  4. Inspect SRS module and under-seat connectors and wiring for corrosion or damage
  5. Test the horn and steering wheel buttons, since failures there point to the clock spring
  6. Measure circuit resistance per factory specs, never probing the squib directly
  7. Swap in a known good part only per the service procedure, then clear the code and see if it returns

Common fixes

  • Reseat the connector securely and clear the code
  • Replace the clock spring
  • Replace the driver airbag module
  • Repair the wiring or connector
  • Reprogram or configure the SRS module per OEM procedure

Questions and answers

Is it safe to drive with B1015?

The car will run, but the driver airbag may not deploy in a crash. Have the system checked as soon as you can.

Why did the SRS light come on after a steering wheel or airbag job?

Most often the connector isn't fully clicked in or the clock spring was damaged. Check the connection, then clear the code with a scan tool.

Can I test the airbag with a multimeter?

No, the meter's test current could fire the squib. Testing must follow factory procedure with the battery disconnected and the proper equipment.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.