B1620 on Kia
Airbag System Control Module (SRSCM) Internal Fault
B1620 on Kia vehicles indicates airbag system control module (srscm) internal fault. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Kia model — most commonly on Forte. The Airbag Control Unit runs a self-diagnostic routine for roughly six seconds after the ignition is turned on. B1620 sets when that self-test reports an internal failure of the module itself. Hyundai has issued two separate remedies over time: Service Campaign TX8 reprograms the ACU because sufficient vibration during the diagnostic window (for example a door being slammed) could cause the module to erroneously detect an internal fault; Warranty Extension TXXQ / TSB 24-BE-014H lists B1620 as a genuine internal-failure code requiring ACU replacement on Accent (HC).
Common Causes of B1620
- •Genuine internal electronic failure of the ACU/SRSCM (remedy: ACU replacement per Warranty Extension TXXQ)
- •Outdated B1620 diagnostic logic — vibration such as a slammed door during the post-ignition self-test falsely sets the code (remedy: ACU reprogramming per Service Campaign TX8)
- •Water intrusion at the module location shorting the board
- •Low or unstable supply voltage to the ACU during the self-test
B1620 on Kia by Model
Kia Forte(1 issue)
- Airbag Control Unit Electrical Fault - Airbags May Not Deploy in a Crash2010-2018
Two Kia safety recalls match this page’s retained year groups. Under 18V363000 (SC165), the airbag control unit in certain 2010-2013 Forte vehicles can suffer electrical overstress during a frontal crash, preventing the frontal airbags and seatbelt pretensioners from deploying. Under 22V031000 (SC226), the ACU cover in certain 2017-2018 Forte vehicles can contact a memory chip, illuminate the airbag warning light with DTC B1620 and deactivate the airbags.
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View B1620 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does B1620 mean on Kia?▼
B1620 stands for "Airbag System Control Module (SRSCM) Internal Fault." The Airbag Control Unit runs a self-diagnostic routine for roughly six seconds after the ignition is turned on. B1620 sets when that self-test reports an internal failure of the module itself. Hyundai has issued two separate remedies over time: Service Campaign TX8 reprograms the ACU because sufficient vibration during the diagnostic window (for example a door being slammed) could cause the module to erroneously detect an internal fault; Warranty Extension TXXQ / TSB 24-BE-014H lists B1620 as a genuine internal-failure code requiring ACU replacement on Accent (HC). On Kia specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes B1620 on Kia vehicles?▼
Common causes on Kia: Genuine internal electronic failure of the ACU/SRSCM (remedy: ACU replacement per Warranty Extension TXXQ), Outdated B1620 diagnostic logic — vibration such as a slammed door during the post-ignition self-test falsely sets the code (remedy: ACU reprogramming per Service Campaign TX8), Water intrusion at the module location shorting the board, Low or unstable supply voltage to the ACU during the self-test. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix B1620 on a Kia?▼
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and specific Kia model.
Which Kia models have B1620 documented?▼
Au7o has documented B1620 on 1 Kia model: Forte.