What Does B0016 Mean?
This code indicates the airbag control module has detected a fault in the right front (passenger side) airbag deployment circuit, specifically the first stage deployment loop. The airbag control module continuously monitors resistance and continuity in the deployment circuits, and has identified an open circuit, short circuit, or resistance value outside normal parameters in the passenger frontal airbag's primary deployment path. This fault typically triggers the airbag warning light and may disable the passenger frontal airbag system.
Safety Warning
The passenger frontal airbag will likely not deploy in a collision, significantly increasing injury risk to the front passenger. The vehicle should be repaired immediately before carrying passengers, as this represents a critical safety system failure. Drive only when necessary and avoid carrying front seat passengers until repaired.
Common Causes
35%
Damaged or corroded airbag clock spring or passenger airbag connector under seat
30%
Faulty passenger frontal airbag module or internal squib resistance out of specification
20%
Broken or shorted wiring between airbag control module and passenger airbag
15%
Faulty airbag control module internal circuit or poor ground connection
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of passenger airbag connector under the seat and clock spring connector. Check for corrosion, bent pins, moisture intrusion, or loose connections. Inspect wiring for visible damage, chafing, or repairs.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, disconnect the passenger airbag module and measure the resistance of the squib/inflator terminals (typically 2-3 ohms specification, consult manufacturer data). Verify readings are within specification range.
3
Step 3: With airbag module disconnected and ignition off, measure continuity and resistance from the airbag control module connector pins (passenger airbag circuit) to the airbag connector under seat. Check for opens, shorts to ground, or shorts to power (typically 2-5 ohms total circuit resistance).
4
Step 4: If wiring and airbag module test good, inspect and test the airbag control module ground connections for high resistance (should be less than 1 ohm). Check battery voltage supply to airbag control module (should be 12+ volts).
5
Step 5: After repairs, clear codes, perform airbag system self-test using scan tool, and verify airbag warning light extinguishes. Road test and rescan to confirm fault does not return.
Estimated Repair Cost
$200 - $1,500
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the airbag control module has detected a fault in the right front (passenger side) airbag deployment circuit, specifically the first stage deployment loop. The airbag control module continuously monitors resistance and continuity in the deployment circuits, and has identified an ...
The most common cause of B0016 (Right Front/Passenger Frontal Deployment Loop (Stage 1) Circuit) is: Damaged or corroded airbag clock spring or passenger airbag connector under seat
Typical repair costs for B0016 range from $200 to $1,500, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The passenger frontal airbag will likely not deploy in a collision, significantly increasing injury risk to the front passenger. The vehicle should be repaired immediately before carrying passengers, as this represents a critical safety system failure. Drive only when necessary and avoid carrying front seat passengers until repaired.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B0016 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS/Airbag)
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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