B1049
BodyPassenger-Side Pre-Tensioner Seat Belt And Other Air Bag Module Circuits Short
This code appears on Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Jeep and several other makes, with slightly different meanings on each. Most commonly it relates to a fault in the airbag/SRS or seatbelt system, where the supplemental restraint system has detected a circuit it can't validate.
ⓘ Information only. This page provides general educational information about fault code B1049. We do not assess the urgency or safety implications of any specific fault. That requires in-person diagnosis by a qualified mechanic. Full terms.
Recommended next steps
Whether a fault is urgent, drivable, or routine depends entirely on the cause on a specific vehicle, and that can only be determined by a qualified mechanic with diagnostic equipment. If a warning light is illuminated, the most reliable next step is professional diagnosis.
What does B1049 mean?
B1049 is a Body (airbags, seat belts, body electronics) fault code. It indicates: Passenger-Side Pre-Tensioner Seat Belt And Other Air Bag Module Circuits Short.
Symptoms commonly associated with this code
Symptoms that drivers often report alongside this code. Not all may apply to every case:
- • Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard, sometimes flashing in a specific pattern
- • Seatbelt tension control may not function correctly
- • On some models the front passenger seat occupant detection system goes faulty
- • Engine warning light on certain Ford models that share the SRS bus
- • Climate or radio displays may show error messages on integrated systems
Possible causes
Causes commonly associated with B1049, listed in approximate order of typical investigation. The actual cause on a specific vehicle can only be confirmed by professional diagnosis.
- 1. Damaged or disconnected wiring under the front seats, common on Ford Focus and Mondeo where seat connectors corrode or get pulled when seats are moved or removed
- 2. Failed clockspring in the steering column on cars where this code is steering-related
- 3. Airbag module fault after a previous accident, an undeployed airbag module that's been damaged but not replaced
- 4. Connector corrosion at the airbag, common on older cars in salty environments
- 5. Aftermarket steering wheel or seat fitted incorrectly, breaking the SRS circuit
- 6. On Chrysler/Dodge: faulty occupant classification module
How mechanics typically diagnose
A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training.
- 1. Identify which manufacturer's interpretation applies, B1049 means different things on Chrysler vs Ford vs Hyundai. The first move is checking your specific make's workshop manual
- 2. Inspect the seat connectors under both front seats, particularly the driver and passenger weight sensors and seatbelt buckle switches
- 3. Check the steering column connector and clockspring
- 4. Visually inspect the airbag module for damage or moisture
- 5. If wiring looks clean, the airbag module itself may need scan-tool diagnosis with manufacturer-specific equipment
Common questions about B1049
Will my MOT pass with the airbag light on? +
No, an illuminated airbag warning light is an automatic MOT failure for cars from 2018 (when MOT rules tightened). Get it diagnosed and fixed before booking, not after. Some MOT testers will tell you they can't even start the test if the SRS warning is showing.
Is the airbag still going to deploy in a crash? +
If the SRS module has flagged a fault, it may have shut down deployment to prevent unintended deployment, or it may deploy unpredictably. Either way, the system is not in a known safe state. Don't drive on a faulty SRS for any longer than necessary.
I bought a used car with this code already showing, what should I check? +
First, was the car previously in an accident? Cars sold post-accident sometimes have airbag fault codes from undeployed modules or replaced parts that haven't been properly recoded. Check service history, MOT history (which records mileage and major repairs), and ideally an HPI check for accident records.
Manufacturer-specific notes
Some manufacturers publish additional definitions or variations for this code. Always cross-check with your vehicle's own service documentation.
Information only, not professional advice
The information on this page is provided for general guidance and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or repair advice from a qualified mechanic. Always verify any fault before paying for repairs. carfaultcodes.co.uk accepts no liability for decisions made based on this information. Full terms →