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The code most often is associated with Fords but can be found in other manufacturers like Nissan and Infiniti, where the code has to do with the front door satellite sensor that is tied to the airbag control module. This is the sensor that detects side frontal side impacts and sends the appropriate signal to the airbag control module to deploy the side impact airbags. Other than a few of these outliers, however, the B1342 code will almost always deal with the ECU or some system, like the ABS, that is tied to the ECU.
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What Is the B1342 Code?
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The B1342 OBD code most often refers to a configuration error in the Engine Control Module (ECU). The ECU is in control of vehicle systems like the anti-lock braking system (ABS), airbags, ignition, and electronic power steering, just to name a few. Whenever this code triggers, your on-board computer is telling you that one of the systems that are controlled by the ECU is not working to normal specifications.
For Fords, the B1342 means that the ECU is not performing properly or is malfunctioning. It’s important to note that there are other definitions that word it differently, but the code always refers to the failure of one or more control modules, as opposed to a general failure of the Controller Area Network wiring. What the code is trying to give you a heads up about will vary depending on the manufacturer of your vehicle. The code, in some cases, could refer to as many as 18 different control systems.
Ford B1432 ECU Description
The B1342 Code on Ford vehicles is associated with the ECU failing, but can have other codes tied to the code when triggered. Sometimes the B1342 code is telling you that systems like the ABS or the power steering control unit need to be examined. The ECU operates by way of hundreds of sensors that are all interconnected, and these sensors monitor everything from fuel economy to emissions and from fuel injection to spark plug timing. Your ECU is vital to the operating efficiency of your vehicle because it controls the fuel/oxygen mixture in your engine to ensure that it is precisely timed and operating under those specific measurements. If the ECU becomes defective, it can lead to serious mechanical issues like engine stalling and misfires.
What Are the Symptoms of a B1342 Code?
The symptoms of a B1342 code are often that your check engine or “service engine soon” light is illuminated. The ECU controls an array of vehicle systems and it is possible that you won’t notice any differences in how your vehicle drives, unless there is a catastrophic failure. But, if the issue relates to the ABS module, then you can expect some physical symptoms like poor braking to be present while driving.
What Are Some Causes of a B1342 Code?
The most common cause of a B1342 Code is abnormal system voltages that can damage specific controllers. Damaged, burnt, or corroded wiring is also found to be at the root of the code. Sometimes, the cause is found to be aftermarket accessories like headlight conversion kits or upgraded audio and stereo systems. This is because these systems can have adverse effects on an array of control modules and interrupt normal specification parameters recognized by the ECU.
Another cause of the B1342 code is operating issues with the ABS module. If the ABS module is unable to effectively communicate with the braking system and the brake lamps themselves, it will trigger the B1342 code. For more information on brake repairs, visit KBB’s brake repair guide.
How Serious Is the B1342 Code?
The B1342 code can cause serious drivability issues. Each manufacturer is different, but it is important to note that any of the systems typically affected by the B1342 are serious vehicle components and should not be underestimated. The ABS system is needed for navigating hazardous driving conditions so it is a crucial component should you find yourself in those conditions. This is why the B1342 code is one that should almost always be addressed by a qualified technician.
Can I Still Drive with a B1342 Code?
Since the B1342 code causes moderate to severe driveability issues, it is strongly advised to not drive the vehicle if you are experiencing any physical symptoms. Even if you don’t immediately notice any physical symptoms, it’s possible that further driving can cause systems like the ABS module to cease working and that can create serious driving hazards on the road. This is why we do recommend that you immediately have your vehicle taken to a qualified technician if you experience a B1342 code.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a B1342 Code?
The B1342 is often accompanied by other codes, and because of this, it is very easy to misdiagnose with average OBD scanners. Lower-level scanners that cannot gauge differences between vehicle manufacturers will often mislead you with what needs to be examined. So, it requires professional-grade equipment and should be performed by trained professionals. In examining the code you have to be mindful of how the code affects each system. When referring to the ABS, you have to understand that the ECU could be having issues with communication and that this doesn’t mean that the ABS module itself is defective. This is, again, why this process is best left to qualified technicians with prior experience repairing these sorts of issues.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a B1342 Code?
Like any computer, the ABS module has to have power and ground continuously all the time to work properly. Any interruption in its performance should be immediately addressed by qualified technicians that have experience working on these complex systems. If power is interrupted, then the module will shut down, and restart when power is reapplied. However, if power is again removed during the module’s startup, then the configuration will not have been read properly, and the B1342 code will be set. In this case, it’s not a problem with the module, but rather the problem is caused by short cycling the power to the module. This is why it is not recommended to try and DIY a B1342 code yourself unless you have extensive experience with circuit mechanics and wiring.
In repairing a B1342 issue, you have to record all of the codes present, as well as the available freeze data in the order in which it appears. This can be potentially a big waste of time or you can find yourself fixing a system that was functioning correctly to begin with. The fact that the code could mean lapses in communication between the ECU and that particular body module, is another reason to allow an experienced technician to address the issue.
Need Additional Help with Your B1342 Code?
You can always refer to our library of OBD-II codes to do your research on the B1342 and other codes. Visit KBB’s extensive code library here and start learning more about your vehicle today.
If you’d like to have a professional take a look at your car, check out service centers in your area.
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