B1BA6 - Internal front impact sensor fault airbag control unit fault

What does error code B1BA6 mean in the airbag control unit?

The error code B1BA6 reports an internal fault in the frontal impact sensor, which is part of the restraint system (SRS) and supplies the data for a frontal impact. The airbag control unit stores this fault and switches on the airbag warning light, so that the defect is visible to the driver.

An internal fault affects the sensor itself, not just its wiring. The fault is stored in the fault memory of the airbag control unit. The frontal impact sensor belongs to the sensor system of the restraint system, whose signals the airbag control unit evaluates.

How do you recognise error code B1BA6?

You recognise error code B1BA6 mainly by the airbag warning light staying on permanently and the code being stored in the fault memory of the airbag control unit. The code cannot be permanently deleted, so the fault memory must be read out with a diagnostic tool before the cause is sought.

The warning light alone shows only that a fault is present. Only reading out with a diagnostic tool makes error code B1BA6 visible in the fault memory.

As long as the code is stored, the airbag warning light stays on permanently.

What causes error code B1BA6?

Error code B1BA6 arises when an internal fault occurs in the frontal impact sensor or in the airbag control unit, that is, a defect within the device itself. The main causes to consider are then crash data after an accident, ageing electronic components, solder joints, moisture and voltage spikes from a weak battery.

• Crash data after an accident
• Ageing electronic components in the sensor or in the airbag control unit
• Solder joints that are no longer fully sound
• Moisture or corrosion on contacts and circuit boards
• Voltage spikes from a weak battery or from a jump start

Connectors and wiring to the sensor are also possible causes, as are the frontal impact sensor itself and the airbag control unit. Which of these is affected only a check will show.

In which vehicles does error code B1BA6 occur?

Error code B1BA6 occurs in vehicles of the brands Chrysler and Lancia, including models such as Chrysler New Yorker LH, Chrysler Vision LH, Lancia Flavia JS and Lancia Thema LD. The meaning of the code is the same for these vehicles, namely an internal fault in the frontal impact sensor.

The list is not complete. On other vehicles the meaning of the code may differ, even where the brand is the same.

How is error code B1BA6 resolved?

Error code B1BA6 is resolved by first having the fault memory read out with a diagnostic tool to narrow down the cause. If the cause lies in the connector, wiring, airbag module or sensor, have these parts checked first at a specialist workshop; if it lies in the control unit, send the device to Airbag24.

If the cause lies in the control unit, disconnect the battery first and then remove the airbag control unit. Create a repair order online and send the device to Airbag24. Checking, repairing and testing usually take 3–4 working days.

The repaired control unit comes back with all vehicle data and is ready for use as soon as it is refitted — no coding or programming is required.

Work on the airbag system belongs in qualified hands.