2010 Mazda B Series OBD2 Code B1943 Airbag Crash Sensor #1 Short to Ground

B1943 code definition

A B1943 code means that your 2010 Mazda B Series 's onboard diagnostic system has detected a discrepancy in the voltages to two terminals in the airbag circuit, and has registered a trouble code.

What the B1943 code means

Air bag systems are designed to perform self-diagnostics. In the event of a B1943 code, voltages are off spec at certain terminals in the system, registering a trouble code as part of the self-diagnostic process.

What causes the B1943 code?

• Short circuit in #1 crash sensor
• Open circuit in left front impact sensor

What are the symptoms of the B1943 code?

• Flashing or illuminated airbag lamp on dash

How does a mechanic diagnose the B1943 code?

• Using a good quality code reader/scanner, check for any airbag-related trouble codes. B1942. B1941, B1944 and B1945 may accompany this trouble code.
• A factory wiring diagram will also be necessary for this diagnosis and repair.
• With the ignition in ON position and headlamp switch OFF, connect the scanner and check for trouble codes.
• Locate right front impact sensor. Check connectors, wiring and crimps for an intermittent problem. Perform a wiggle test. Check for any dirt, corrosion, damage or other physical problems with sensor, wiring, terminals and connectors.
• Disconnect air bag diagnostic monitor and check resistance on terminals. NOTE: disconnecting the diagnostic monitor disables the entire airbag system.
• If resistance is less than 2 ohms, replace diagnostic monitor.
• If resistance is greater than 2 ohms, disconnect right front impact sensor from harness.
• Measure resistance between the sensor connector's pink/orange and yellow/white wires.
• Resistance should be less than 2 ohms. Locate and repair any open circuits found in #617 or #624.
• If resistance is greater than 2 ohms, replace entire right front impact sensor.
• Clear diagnostic codes and test drive 2010 Mazda B Series to see if codes return.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the B1943 code

As with many codes, technicians often jump ahead on a B1943 code without doing a proper process of elimination and end up replacing parts unnecessarily.

How serious is the B1943 code?

A B1941 code can result in the airbag not deploying in a collision.

What repairs can fix the B1943 code?

• Replacement of left front crash sensor
• Replace/repair of wiring and connectors
• Locating and repairing short in circuit for crash sensor

Additional comments for consideration regarding the B1943 code

On many Ford 2010 Mazda B Series s, the air bag warning light will flash to alert the driver to a problem. The light will flash an indication of the code itself. In this case, it would flash four times, followed by a pause, followed by three flashes to denote 43.

Any airbag-related work is complex and might be best left up to a professional. Accidental deployment of the airbag can result in serious injury.

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