B1019 on Nissan: How to Diagnose & Fix
SDM System Configuration Error
1 Nissan model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $500-$5,000 repair
B1019 on Nissan by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The passenger seat's Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor mat can fail, causing the 'Passenger Airbag OFF' light to stay illuminated even with an adult in the seat, deactivating the passenger airbag. NHTSA opened (and later closed) an investigation into 2011-2012 Leafs for this defect, and owners set a B1018 seat-sensor DTC. Nissan recalled 2013-2016 Leafs for a related airbag/OCS issue but excluded 2011-2012 because the system differs, leaving those owners to pay out of pocket. The costly part: the OCS mat is integrated into the seat, so the fix often requires replacing the entire passenger seat (owners report $3,000-$5,000).
Common Symptoms
- 'Passenger Airbag OFF' light stays on with an adult in the seat
- Airbag warning light illuminated
- B1018 seat/occupant sensor DTC stored
- Intermittent switching of the passenger airbag status
How to Fix
Scan for B1018/OCS codes. Repair the OCS sensor mat/harness if possible; in many cases Nissan only offers passenger-seat (or seat cushion with integrated sensor) replacement plus recalibration. Some independent specialists can repair or replace just the sensor mat at lower cost. Do not ignore — the passenger airbag will not deploy while the light shows OFF.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan 2011-2012 LEAF front passenger seat cushion with OCS 87300-3NA8A
Confirm VIN, seat trim/options and calibration capability.
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Sources for this issue (3)
B1019 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does B1019 mean on a Nissan?
B1019 stands for "SDM System Configuration Error." General Motors definition. At every ignition cycle the Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM, the airbag control module) compares the restraint configuration stored in its memory against the restraint hardware it actually sees on the SRS circuits — deployment loops, impact sensors, pretensioners and seat/occupant hardware. B1019 sets when the detected configuration does not match the programmed configuration, and the SDM disables the entire restraint system so that nothing can deploy incorrectly. Note: this GM definition does not apply to Nissan, where B1019 is used for the Occupant Classification System (OCS) control unit / sensor mat and its link to the airbag diagnosis sensor unit; scope the code to the correct manufacturer before acting on it. On Nissan it is documented across 1 model: Leaf.
What are the most common causes of B1019?
The most common causes of B1019 are: Airbag control module (SDM) replaced with a unit not programmed/configured to the vehicle's build, A restraint component (seat-mounted airbag, pretensioner, impact sensor, occupant sensing hardware) unplugged, missing or substituted with the wrong part, Damaged or corroded SRS connector under a seat, or a yellow SRS connector not fully latched after seat/interior work, Wrong-VIN or incorrect calibration loaded into the SDM after a repair, Internal SDM fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix B1019 on a Nissan?
Published repair estimates on Nissan range from $500 to $5,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for B1019 on a different make?
View B1019 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.