Ford models 2016 and 2017 have many high-tech features, such as better warning systems. This feature includes a belt monitor system that lets drivers know when passengers aren’t wearing seat belts.
How does a belt monitor system work? What’s wrong with your Ford’s rear belt monitor system fault? This post explains both.
What is a Ford Rear Seat Belt Reminder?
As an extra safety measure, Ford cars have a rear belt monitor feature that goes off if a person in the back seat doesn’t buckle up.
When the system finds that a seatbelt is not buckled, it will sound an alarm and turn on a warning light to remind people to buckle up.
There are different types of rear belt monitors, which use various tools to check if the seatbelts are on. The power of this part is essential for the car’s safety and needs to be serviced regularly.
The Ford Transit displays a rear belt monitor malfunction, service required message, while the Ford F150 is experiencing issues with the seat belt alarm.
Causes of Ford Rear Belt Monitor Faults
Here are some common causes of Ford Rear Belt Monitor faults:
1. Damaged Wire
The Rear Belt Monitor System sensors are wired to the modules that control the system. If the wiring is damaged or faulty, the device might not function properly or cannot tell when a seatbelt is buckled in. In this case, the alert message might be sent.
2. Broken Sensor
That being said, the Rear Belt Monitor System devices could also stop working because they are broken or worn out. If a device isn’t working right and sends the wrong information to the control module, it could cause false alarms, warning messages, or difficulty in determining who is wearing a seatbelt.
3. Control Module Not Working
The control module is the most important part of the Rear Belt Monitor System (RBS). A system failure could cause its failure or the wrong data being sent to the alert lights and sounds.
4. Battery Voltage Too Low
The car’s rearview camera gets its power from the battery. The device might work or break down if the battery charge is higher.
5. Defused Fuse
Blown fuses can also cause the Rear Belt Monitor to stop working because they stop the system from receiving power.
How to Fix a Faulty Rear Belt Monitor?
It’s important to keep your car safe by fixing a broken back seat belt monitor. Here is a guide to help you fix this problem:
1. Check the Wiring
- Check the connections for the back seat belt.
- You should take a close look if there is any damage, like parts that are broken or missing.
- The rear seat belt monitor can’t work properly because the link between it and the car’s hardware is broken.
2. Examine the Sensor
- Inspect the sensor responsible for the Rear Belt Monitor to make sure it works properly.
- Make sure it is not only in a safe spot but also not blocked in any way.
- An error message could be caused by a screen that is cracked or blocked.
3. Check the Module Control
- Ensure that the control module for the belt monitor is working properly.
- Be alert for rust or links that are coming apart, as this could indicate that something is breaking down.
- A faulty control module could make it hard for things to talk to each other, which would cause the warning sign to appear.
4. Confirm Power Source
- Read the battery’s voltage label to make sure it’s within the safe range.
- Inspect for a blown fuse that might damage the back seat monitor.
- The rear belt monitor system might lose power due to low voltage or a blown fuse.
5. Fix Damaged Parts
- If any parts are found to be damaged during the inspection, get new ones.
- A damaged wire, a broken sensor, or a defective control module might all be to blame.
- Damaged parts must be replaced before the rear belt monitor can function correctly.
6. Remove Fault Codes
- Delete any fault codes that could have been stored in the car’s system after the issues have been fixed.
- Use a diagnostic tool or consult an expert to ensure a full reset.
- Setting fault codes to clear will help the system recognize which parts have been replaced or fixed, preventing you from seeing the same error message over.
7. Ask an Expert for Help
- In case you can’t figure out what’s wrong or how to repair it by yourself.
- In case the issue persists despite your efforts.
- A skilled technician can do a more comprehensive diagnostic and repair, making sure that every part of the rear belt monitor system is carefully checked.
By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and fix a faulty rear belt monitor in your vehicle. If the issue continues, consulting a professional is advised for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair.
How Do You Disable and Reset the Belt Minder?
To fix the problem with the Service required notice, you may reset the device to remove the alert and start again.
| Step | Action |
| Turn On the Ignition | Turn the ignition key to the On position without starting the engine. |
| Fasten and Unfasten | Fasten and unfasten your seat belt within 60 seconds, repeating three times. |
| Wait for Seat Belt Light | After the third time, leave the seat belt unfastened. The dashboard light stays on. |
| Fasten Seat Belt Again | Fasten and unfasten the seat belt once more to confirm programming. Light turns off. |
| Turn Off the Ignition | Save changes by turning off the ignition. |
Tips For Preventing Future Rear Belt Monitor Faults
- Regular Check: With regular checks, you can find any problems with your car before they get too bad.
- Check the Seat Belts: Look at the seat belts often to see if they are worn out.
- Get Help: If don’t know how to fix your car, get it fixed by a professional.
Things You Need To Do
- Ensure the lines under the seats are secure, and rust-free, and connections aren’t too tight.
- Listen for strange noises when you put on or remove your seatbelt. These could be signs that something is wrong.
- Make sure everyone is buckled in their car belts again before you leave.
Can You Drive with a Rear Belt Monitor Fault?
You can drive your Ford because this product doesn’t work with the engine, clutch, or other drivetrain parts. You and your passengers must stay safe in your Ford. The rear seat monitor system helps with this.
Conclusion
You can keep your Rear Belt Monitor System working well by understanding how it works, the most common issues, how to fix them, and the best ways to use it.
Have a trained mechanic check out your Ford 2016 or 2017 if you think it might have a rear belt monitor problem. This will ensure your safety while you drive.
