B1871: Passenger Air Bag Disable Module Fault
What does B1871 mean?
B1871 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating "Passenger Air Bag Disable Module Fault". This code relates to your vehicle's restraint system and should be diagnosed to determine the root cause. The severity level helps indicate how urgently this should be addressed.
Symptoms you may notice
- Check engine light (MIL) illuminated on dashboard
- Noticeable change in engine performance
- Unusual sounds or vibrations
- Possible issues with restraint system operation
- Vehicle may enter reduced power mode (limp mode)
Estimated repair cost
Typical range in Australia (parts + labour)
Common causes
- Faulty restraint system component
- Wiring or connector issue in the related circuit
- Failed sensor providing incorrect readings
- Software/calibration issue requiring ECU update
- Related component causing secondary fault
What should you do?
This code sits in the occupant restraint system. The airbags or pretensioners may not fire in a crash, and on some faults they can fire when they should not. The car will usually drive and feel completely normal, which is exactly why this one gets ignored. Have it diagnosed before you carry passengers, and do not clear the code to make the light go away.
Get a diagnosis for YOUR car
Code B1871 can mean different things depending on your vehicle. TorqueBot gives you a diagnosis specific to your make, model, and year.