What does it mean?
B1444 is a Body (airbags, seat belts, body electronics) fault code. It indicates: Curtain air bag module (RH) (squib ignition drive circuit) .
Symptoms
- Airbag warning lamp stays lit after the start up check with the curtain disabled
- Right curtain will not deploy in a side impact or rollover
- Code is stored as current and returns on the next ignition cycle after clearing
- Additional restraint codes may appear together if the control module itself is failing
- The vehicle otherwise starts, drives and stops normally
Likely causes
- Corroded or partly mated connector between the restraint module and the right curtain branch
- High resistance joint from an old repair splice or a fretted terminal in the module connector
- Damaged harness between the module in the tunnel and the A pillar connector
- Water reaching the restraint module after a heater matrix, windscreen or bulkhead leak
- Failure of the firing output driver inside the restraint control module
- Curtain airbag fitted with an initiator resistance outside the accepted range
- Weak battery or unstable supply during the ignition on self test
How to fix it
- Disconnect the battery and wait the specified reserve discharge time before working on the restraint system
- Test the battery and charging voltage first, because low voltage alone can fail the drive circuit self test
- Remove and inspect the restraint module connectors for water, corrosion, fretting and locks that never fully engaged, then refit them properly
- Check the module mounting bolts, as its ground path runs through them
- Inspect the firing pair from the module along the tunnel and up to the A pillar connector for crush damage and old splices
- Fit the approved load tool in place of the curtain airbag and retest to see whether the fault stays with the module
- Replace the restraint control module last, configure it for the vehicle, clear the memory and confirm the lamp completes its self test and goes out