Body and Paint

Pinpoint Test - DTC: P. Diagnosis and Testing

~16min read

B1404:11, B1404:12, B1404:13 and B1404:1A


For circuit and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams Cell 46.

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

The RCM continuously monitors the driver side airbag circuits for the following faults:

  • Resistance Out of Range
  • Unexpected Voltage
  • Short to Ground
  • Driver Side Airbag Fault

When a fault is detected, the RCM stores DTC B1404:11, B1404:12, B1404:13 or B1404:1A in memory and sends a message to the IPC to turn on the airbag warning indicator.

The RCM analyzes the deployment loop resistance to determine if a malfunction is present. The value displayed in the PID is the deployment loop resistance measured by the RCM. If the displayed value is below or above the desired range (see the chart below), the RCM may set a DTC. As the deployment loop resistance drifts further outside the desired range, the likelihood of a DTC setting increases. Small resistance fluctuations may occur due to the effect of road vibrations on the final seat belt connection. Crimps and terminals may be affected by stress and movement of the seat belt and may cause an increase in resistance due to wire tension. These variables may result in an intermittent fault. For this reason, the test requires the PID value to be within the desired range before the malfunction is considered repaired, regardless of whether the module reports the DTC on demand at the time of diagnosis. Following this direction helps ensure that minor resistance changes do not cause repeated concern. This test uses a process of elimination to diagnose each part of the deployment loop circuit, including:

  • Wiring
  • Connections
  • Driver Side Airbag
  • RCM

DTC Fault Trigger Conditions


Trouble Code Description Fault Trigger Conditions
B1404:11 Driver Side Airbag Deployment Control: Short to Ground The fault is set when the RCM detects a short to ground in the driver side airbag circuit for approximately 6 seconds.
B1404:12 Driver Side Airbag Deployment Control: Short to Battery The fault is set when the RCM detects a short to battery voltage in the driver side airbag circuit for approximately 6 seconds.
B1404:13 Driver Side Airbag Deployment Control: Open Circuit The fault is set when the RCM measures more than the desired resistance range between the driver side airbag circuits for approximately 6 seconds.
B1404:1A Driver Side Airbag Deployment Monitoring: Circuit Resistance Below Threshold The fault is set when the RCM measures less than the desired resistance range between the driver side airbag circuits for approximately 6 seconds.

Possible Causes

  • Wiring, Terminals or Connectors
  • Driver Side Airbag
  • RCM

Visual Inspection and Preliminary Diagnosis

  • Inspect the wiring harness for damage.
  • Inspect the connectors for loose or damaged terminals.

PINPOINT TEST A: B1404:11, B1404:12, B1404:13 AND B1404:1A
NOTE: Most concerns are related to connector and/or wiring issues. Perform a thorough inspection and check before proceeding to the Pinpoint Test.
NOTE: Only disconnect or reconnect SRS components when instructed to do so in the Pinpoint Test step. Failure to follow this instruction may result in an incorrect SRS diagnosis.
NOTE: Always verify the correct SRS component is installed. Parts released for other vehicles may be incompatible even if they appear physically similar. Check the part number listed in the Ford parts catalog to confirm the correct component is installed. If an incorrect SRS component is installed, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) may be set.
NOTE: Before returning the vehicle to the customer, the SRS must be fully functional and operating correctly.
A1 REMOVE RCM (RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE) DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS)
  • WARNING: Before starting any service procedure in this section, refer to the Safety Warnings in Section 100-00 General Information. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.
    REFER TO: Pyrotechnic Device Handling Precautions (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).
  • The ignition is on.
  • Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the RCM self-test.

Was DTC B1404:11, B1404:12, B1404:13 or B1404:1A retrieved on demand during the Self-Test?
Yes This fault cannot be resolved until it is repaired and the DTC is no longer retrieved on demand during the Self-Test.
For DTC B1404:13 or B1404:1A, GO to A2.
For DTC B1404:11, GO to A8.
For DTC B1404:12, GO to A10.
No This is an intermittent fault if it is only present as a continuous memory Diagnostic Trouble Code (CMDTC).
For DTC B1404:13 or B1404:1A, GO to A13.
For DTC B1404:11, GO to A14.
For DTC B1404:12, GO to A15.
A2 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT LOOP RESISTANCE (DEPLOY_10_R) PID (PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION)
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool, view the RCM parameter identification (PID) data.
  • Monitor and record the resistance value displayed by the DEPLOY_10_R PID.

Is the PID value between 1.44 and 3.52 Ohms?
Yes GO to A12
No GO to A3
A3 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT LOOP RESISTANCE (DEPLOY_10_R) PID (PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION) DURING A WIRING HARNESS CHECK
  • While monitoring the DEPLOY_10_R PID, perform a wiggle test of the driver side airbag circuit wiring harness and accessible connectors (including any inline connectors) by moving and flexing the harness and connectors. Record the resistance value displayed by the PID.

Is the PID value within the range of 1.44 to 3.52 ohms during the harness check?
Yes DISCONNECT the SRS from power and REPAIR the connector, terminals or harness as necessary.
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
No If the PID value is less than 1.44 ohms, GO to A4.
If the PID value is greater than 3.52 ohms, GO to A6.
A4 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT LOOP DTC (DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE) FOR A FAULT STATE CHANGE (LOW RESISTANCE INDICATED)
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Disconnect: Driver Side Airbag C367.
  • Reset the SRS. Do not check the SRS at this time.
    REFER TO: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disarming and Rearming (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • The ignition is on.
  • Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the RCM self-test.
  • DIAGNOSTIC TIP: When viewing the driver side airbag diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with the driver side airbag disconnected, an open circuit fault is usually found.

Did the on-demand fault code change from B1404:1A to B1404:13?
Yes GO to A11
No GO to A5
A5 CHECK FOR A SHORT BETWEEN THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG CIRCUITS
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Disconnect: RCM C310A and C310B.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C367-1 C367-3

Is the resistance greater than 10000 Ohms?
Yes GO to A12
No REPAIR the circuits.
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
A6 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG CIRCUITS FOR AN OPEN
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Disconnect: Driver Side Airbag C367.
  • Disconnect: RCM C310A and C310B.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C310B-16 C367-3
    C310B-15 C367-1

Is the resistance less than 0.5 Ohms?
Yes GO to A7
No REPAIR the circuit(s).
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
A7 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT LOOP DTC (DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE) FOR A FAULT STATE CHANGE (OPEN INDICATED)
  • Connect: RCM C310A and C310B.
  • Connect a fused jumper wire:
    Click to display connectors
    Lead 1 Measurement/Action Lead 2
    C367-1 C367-3
  • Reset the SRS. Do not check the SRS at this time.
    REFER TO: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disarming and Rearming (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • The ignition is on.
  • Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the RCM self-test.
  • DIAGNOSTIC TIP: When viewing the driver side airbag diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with the driver side airbag circuits shorted together, a low resistance fault is usually recorded.

Did the on-demand fault code change from B1404:13 to B1404:1A?
Yes REMOVE the fusible link and GO to A11.
No REMOVE the fusible link and GO to A12.
A8 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT LOOP DTC (DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE) FOR A FAULT STATE CHANGE (SHORT TO GROUND INDICATED)
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Disconnect: Driver Side Airbag C367.
  • Reset the SRS. Do not check the SRS at this time.
    REFER TO: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disarming and Rearming (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • The ignition is on.
  • Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the RCM self-test.
  • DIAGNOSTIC TIP: When viewing the driver side airbag diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with the driver side airbag disconnected, an open circuit fault is usually found.

Did the on-demand fault code change from B1404:11 to B1404:13?
Yes GO to A11
No GO to A9
A9 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG CIRCUITS FOR A SHORT TO GROUND
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Disconnect: RCM C310A and C310B.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C367-1 Ground
    C367-3 Ground

Is the resistance greater than 10000 ohms?
Yes GO to A12
No REPAIR the circuit(s).
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
A10 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG CIRCUITS FOR A SHORT TO VOLTAGE
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Disconnect: Driver Side Airbag C367.
  • Disconnect: RCM C310A and C310B.
  • Reset the SRS. Do not check the SRS at this time.
    REFER TO: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disarming and Rearming (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • The ignition is on.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C367-1 Ground
    C367-3 Ground

Is there voltage present?
Yes REPAIR the circuit(s).
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
No GO to A12
A11 CONFIRM THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG FAULT
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Before reconnecting any previously disconnected SRS component:
    • inspect the connector(s) (including any integral connectors) for pushed-out, loose or spread terminals, and loose or chafed wire connections at the terminals.
    • inspect the wiring harness for damage, pinching, or cut or pierced wires.
    • check the RCM C310A and C310B connector position assurance (CPA) lever/latch for proper operation.
    • repair any problems found.
      Refer to Wiring Diagrams Cell 5 for schematic and connector information.
  • Connect: Driver Side Airbag C367.
  • Connect: RCM C310A and C310B.
  • Reset the SRS. Do not check the SRS at this time.
    REFER TO: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disarming and Rearming (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • The ignition is on.
  • Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the RCM self-test.

Was the original DTC retrieved on demand during the self-test?
Yes INSTALL a new driver side airbag.
REFER TO: Side Airbag (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, Removal and Installation).
GO to A17.
No During diagnosis, the fault state became intermittent. Do not install any new SRS components at this time. Install SRS components only when directed by the pinpoint test.
For DTC B1404:13 or B1404:1A, GO to A13.
For DTC B1404:11, GO to A14.
For DTC B1404:12, GO to A15.
A12 CONFIRM THE RCM (RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE) FAULT
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Before reconnecting any previously disconnected SRS component:
    • inspect the connector(s) (including any integral connectors) for pushed-out, loose or spread terminals, and loose or chafed wire connections at the terminals.
    • inspect the wiring harness for damage, pinching, or cut or pierced wires.
    • check the RCM C310A and C310B connector position assurance (CPA) lever/latch for proper operation.
    • repair any problems found.
      Refer to Wiring Diagrams Cell 5 for schematic and connector information.
  • Connect: Driver Side Airbag C367.
  • Connect: RCM C310A and C310B.
  • Reset the SRS. Do not check the SRS at this time.
    REFER TO: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disarming and Rearming (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • The ignition is on.
  • Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the RCM self-test.

Was the original DTC retrieved on demand during the self-test?
Yes CHECK OASIS for any applicable Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). If a TSB exists for this concern, STOP this test and FOLLOW the TSB instructions. If no TSB applies to this concern, INSTALL a new RCM.
REFER TO: Restraints Control Module (RCM) (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, Removal and Installation).
GO to A17
No During diagnosis, the fault state became intermittent. Do not install any new SRS components at this time. Install SRS components only when directed by the pinpoint test.
For DTC B1404:13 or B1404:1A, GO to A13.
For DTC B1404:11, GO to A14.
For DTC B1404:12, GO to A15.
A13 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT LOOP RESISTANCE (DEPLOY_10_R) PID (PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION) FOR AN INTERMITTENT LOW RESISTANCE OR OPEN CIRCUIT FAULT
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool, view the RCM parameter identification (PID) data.
  • While monitoring the DEPLOY_10_R PID, attempt to reproduce the fault by moving the connectors (including any inline connectors) and flexing the harness. Record the resistance value displayed by the PID.

Is the PID value between 1.44 and 3.52 Ohms?
Yes The fault is not present and cannot be duplicated at this time. Do not install any new SRS components at this time. Install SRS components only when directed by the pinpoint test. GO to A16
No DISCONNECT the SRS and REPAIR as necessary.
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
A14 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT CONTROL CIRCUITS FOR A CONTINUOUS SHORT TO GROUND
  • Attempt to reproduce the fault by wiggling the connectors (including any inline connectors) and flexing the wiring harness frequently.
  • Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the RCM self-test.

Was DTC B1404:11 retrieved on demand during the self-test?
Yes DISCONNECT the SRS and REPAIR as necessary.
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
No The fault is not present and cannot be duplicated at this time. Do not install any new SRS components at this time. Install SRS components only when directed by the pinpoint test. GO to A16
A15 CHECK THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT CONTROL CIRCUITS FOR AN INTERMITTENT SHORT TO BATTERY
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Disconnect: Driver Side Airbag C367.
  • Reset the SRS. Do not check the SRS at this time.
    REFER TO: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disarming and Rearming (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • The ignition is on.
  • Attempt to reproduce the fault by wiggling the connectors (including any inline connectors) and flexing the wiring harness frequently.
  • Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the RCM self-test.

Was DTC B1404:12 retrieved on demand during the self-test?
Yes DISCONNECT the SRS and REPAIR as necessary.
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
No The fault is not present and cannot be duplicated at this time. Do not install any new SRS components at this time. Install SRS components only when directed by the pinpoint test. GO to A16
A16 CHECK THE HARNESS AND CONNECTORS
  • Ignition OFF.
  • De-power the SRS.
    REFER to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Re-enabling (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • Disconnect: Driver Side Airbag C367.
    • Inspect the connector(s) (including any inline connectors) for corrosion, loose or spread terminals, and loose or worn wire-to-terminal connections.
    • Inspect the wiring harness for damage, pinching, cut or pierced wires.
    • Inspect the RCM C310A and C310B connector position assurance (CPA) lever/latch for proper operation.

Were any concerns found?
Yes REPAIR as necessary.
For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagrams, Cell 5.
GO to A17
No The fault is not present and cannot be duplicated at this time. Do not install any new SRS components at this time. Install SRS components only when directed by the pinpoint test. GO to A17
A17 CHECK THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS)
  • Ignition OFF.
  • Reconnect all SRS components (if previously disconnected).
  • If previously instructed to disable the SRS, re-enable the SRS. Do not check the SRS at this time.
    Refer to: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Disabling and Arming (501-20B Supplemental Restraint System, General Procedures).
  • The ignition is on.
  • NOTE: When Restraints is selected in the Self Test menu, DTCs are retrieved from the RCM and OCSM. Using the diagnostic scanner, perform the Restraints Self Test.

Are any RCM and/or OCSM Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) retrieved on demand during the self-test?
Yes Do not clear any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) until all DTCs have been resolved. DIAGNOSE and REPAIR the RCM and/or OCSM DTCs.
REFER TO: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) (501-20 Supplemental Restraint System).
No CLEAR the Continuous Memory Diagnostic Trouble Codes (CMDTCs) from all modules. CONFIRM the SRS. Repair is complete. RETURN the vehicle to the customer.

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