What does it mean?
B1494 is a Body (airbags, seat belts, body electronics) fault code. It indicates: Front Passenger’s Air Bag Module (2nd Squib Ignition Drive Circuit) .
Symptoms
- Airbag warning lamp on with restraint functions disabled
- Code stays stored even after connectors are reseated
- Other second stage or squib circuit codes stored alongside it
- Second stage deployment inhibited in a crash
Likely causes
- Internal failure of the firing driver inside the airbag control module
- Second stage loop resistance out of range, so the driver self-test fails
- Corroded or partially seated main connector at the airbag control module
- Poor module ground or a loose mounting bolt affecting the reference for the drive circuit
- Unstable supply voltage from a weak battery, a faulty charging system or a recent jump start
- Non matching passenger airbag assembly fitted after a repair
- Moisture reaching the module through carpet or a body leak in the tunnel area
How to fix it
- Record all stored restraint codes; a squib circuit code alongside this one points at the loop, not the module
- Reseat the airbag control module main connector and inspect its terminals for corrosion and spreading
- Check the module mounting bolts and its ground path, and retorque them onto clean, undamaged metal
- Verify battery condition and charging voltage before condemning any electronics
- Confirm the passenger airbag fitted matches the correct part number and specification
- Substitute an approved load tool on the second stage loop to see whether the driver fault clears
- Replace and code the airbag control module last, only when the loop and wiring test good