B1917 OBD-II Trouble Code: Air Bag Memory Clear Circuit Failure

B1917 code definition

The B1917 diagnostic trouble code is an indication that the air bag memory clear circuit has failed.

What the B1917 code means

The air bag control module is separate from the powertrain control module (PCM). When there is a problem with the air bag system, a fault code is stored in the air bag control module, instead of the powertrain control module (PCM). Once a diagnosis and repair is completed for the stored fault code, this code can be cleared from the air bag control module using the proper scan tool. The air bag memory clear circuit is the component of the air bag system that allows diagnostic trouble codes to be cleared from the air bag control module. Following repair, if the original diagnostic trouble code is unable to be cleared from the air bag control module, this is an indication that there is a problem with the air bag memory clear circuit and it has failed. When this happens, the B1917 diagnostic trouble code will be stored in the air bag control module and the air bag light will come on.

What causes the B1917 code?

• Blown air bag fuse

• Faulty instrument cluster

• Instrument cluster connectors with damage, corrosion, or bent pins

• Air bag control module connectors with damage, corrosion, or bent pins

• Wiring that is frayed, broken, shorted, or corroded

• Faulty air bag control module

What are the symptoms of the B1917 code?

• Air bag light stays on after clearing original diagnostic trouble code

• Air bag system may be disabled

• B1917 diagnostic trouble code stored in the air bag control module

How does a mechanic diagnose the B1917 code?

• Diagnostic trouble codes should be diagnosed in the order that they appear when scanned.
• Use an OBD-II scanner to collect all stored trouble codes as well as freeze frame data.
• Inspect the air bag fuse for failure. If the air bag fuse is blown out, replace the fuse and clear all stored trouble codes from the air bag control module.
• Complete a test drive to see if the B1917 diagnostic trouble code comes back.
• If the B1917 trouble code comes back, inspect wiring for frays, breaks, shorts, and corrosion. Repair and replace as necessary
• Inspect instrument cluster connectors for damage, corrosion, or bent pins. Repair or replace as necessary.
• Inspect air bag control module connectors for damage, corrosion, or bent pins. Repair or replace as necessary.
• Complete a test drive to see if the B1917 diagnostic trouble code comes back.
• If the B1917 trouble code comes back, inspect the instrument cluster for faults.
• Test the voltage signal and ground continuity of the instrument cluster wiring harness.
• If the voltage signal and ground continuity does not fall within the manufacturer’s specifications, the instrument cluster wiring harness may need to be replaced.
• After replacing the instrument cluster wiring harness complete a test drive to see if the B1917 diagnostic trouble code comes back.
• If the B1917 trouble code comes back, test the instrument cluster to see if the voltage signal and ground continuity falls within the manufacturer’s predetermined specifications.
• If the voltage signal and ground continuity does not fall within the manufacturer’s specifications, the instrument cluster may need to be replaced
• After replacing the instrument cluster complete a test to see if the B1917 diagnostic trouble code comes back.
• If the B1917 trouble code comes back, the air bag module may need to be replaced.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the B1917 code

The most commonly made mistake when diagnosing the B1917 diagnostic trouble code is failing to inspect all of the necessary components. It is important to inspect the fuses for the air bag system, the instrument cluster, and the wiring harness. Make sure there are no blown fuses, faults, or damaged wiring.

How serious is the B1917 code?

A diagnostic trouble code is normally considered serious when it causes driveability issues or a change in performance. When there is a problem with the air bag system, it is considered serious because it is possible that the air bag system will be disabled completely. This can prove dangerous if the vehicle is in an accident and the air bags do not deploy. For this reason, the B1917 diagnostic trouble code should be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix the B1914 code?

• Replace blown air bag fuse

• Replace faulty instrument cluster

• Repair or replace instrument cluster connectors that have damage, corrosion, or bent pins

• Repair or replace instrument cluster wiring harness

• Repair or replace air bag control module connectors that have damage, corrosion, or bent pins

• Repair or replace air bag control module wiring harness

• Repair or replace wiring that is frayed, broken, shorted, or corroded

• Replace air bag control module

Additional comments for consideration regarding the B1917 code

When repairing the B1917 diagnostic trouble code, it is important to make sure the air bag system has been properly disabled. Serious bodily injury may occur if the air bags deploy while completing repairs.

Need help with a B1917 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.