B0185

Code

Generic B — Body

Driver Airbag Squib Circuit Open

Brand: Generic

Type: B — Body

Views: UK: 10 EN: 23 RU: 9

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Page language: EN

Causes

Open or broken wiring in driver airbag squib circuit
Disconnected, loose, corroded or damaged connector(s) at the steering wheel or SRS module
Faulty or damaged clockspring/spiral cable
Failed driver airbag squib (inflator)
Faulty SRS (airbag) control module or internal connector
Recent repair or collision damage not fully restored (cut/shorted wires)

Symptoms

SRS / Airbag warning lamp illuminated on instrument cluster
Driver airbag disabled warning or airbag lamp stays on at key-on
Possible DTCs stored for related SRS circuits (steering wheel sensors)
Inoperative horn or steering wheel controls if integrated into same circuit (depending on vehicle)

What to check

Retrieve and record all SRS codes and freeze-frame data with a capable scan tool
Verify battery voltage and good battery connections before SRS testing
Visually inspect wiring and connectors at steering column, clockspring, steering wheel and SRS module for damage, corrosion or disconnection
Check for history of recent steering/airbag repair or collision work
Observe recommended SRS safety procedures: disable battery, wait manufacturer-specified time to discharge capacitors before touching connectors

Signal parameters

Normal driver squib continuity: low resistance typically around 2–5 ohms (manufacturer-specific). Infinite/high resistance indicates open circuit.
Short to ground/short to voltage typically near 0–1 ohm or low value; open circuit appears as OL or >10 kΩ on meter.
No deployment voltage should be present at squib connector during normal key-on; firing is a controlled high-current pulse from SRS module (do not attempt to energize)

Diagnostic algorithm

Record codes and freeze-frame data with scan tool; note any other SRS codes.
Follow safety procedure: switch ignition off, disconnect negative battery terminal, and wait manufacturer-recommended delay (usually 2–10 minutes) before working on SRS connectors.
Perform visual inspection of steering wheel, clockspring, and wiring harness for damage, worn insulation, chafing, or disconnected plugs.
With battery disconnected and waiting period observed, access driver airbag connector(s) and check pin condition and terminal seating; repair or replace corroded/damaged terminals.
Measure resistance of the driver squib circuit between the SRS module connector and the steering wheel airbag connector (ohmmeter). Compare to manufacturer spec. Infinite or very high resistance = open; very low/near zero may indicate short.
If open in wiring, perform backprobe/continuity checks segment-by-segment (steering wheel hub, clockspring pigtail, steering column harness, under-dash harness) to locate break. Repair wiring with correct splices, crimps, or harness replacement as required.
If continuity is good through the harness but open at squib, replace driver airbag module (do not attempt to repair squib)
If wiring and airbag are good, suspect clockspring: test continuity through clockspring when steering angle changed; replace clockspring if intermittent or open.
After repairs, reconnect connectors, clear codes with scan tool, reconnect battery, and perform SRS system reconnection/initialization per manufacturer procedure. Verify that SRS lamp extinguishes and no reoccurring codes.
If codes persist or repairs are unclear, consult vehicle-specific service manual or escalate to a qualified SRS technician or dealer.