What Does B0048 Mean?
This code indicates the Airbag Control Module (ACM) has detected a malfunction in the deployment circuit or control system for the third row right side airbag. The subfault designation suggests an issue with the electrical circuit, sensor feedback, or communication integrity affecting the airbag's ability to deploy properly. This compromises the supplemental restraint system's functionality for third row right occupants.
Safety Warning
The vehicle should not be driven as the third row right side airbag will not deploy in a collision, leaving occupants unprotected. This is a critical safety system failure requiring immediate professional repair before carrying passengers in the third row.
Common Causes
35%
Faulty or damaged airbag module connector, corroded pins, or loose connection at the third row right side airbag
30%
Open or short circuit in the airbag wiring harness between ACM and third row right airbag
20%
Defective third row right side airbag module or internal squib resistance out of specification
10%
Faulty Airbag Control Module unable to properly monitor or control deployment circuit
5%
Damaged or improperly installed third row seat components affecting airbag circuit integrity
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of third row right side seat area, checking for physical damage, water intrusion, seat modifications, or aftermarket covers that may affect airbag deployment or wiring
2
Step 2: Access and visually inspect the third row right side airbag connector under the seat or in seat back, checking for corrosion, bent pins, moisture, or loose connection; ensure connector is fully seated with locking tab engaged
3
Step 3: Using a multimeter, measure resistance across the airbag squib terminals (with connector disconnected and ACM isolated) to verify resistance is within manufacturer specification, typically 2-4 ohms; out-of-range readings indicate faulty airbag module
4
Step 4: Inspect wiring harness from ACM to third row right airbag for chafing, pinching, or damage, paying special attention to areas where harness routes through seat tracks, hinges, or floor pan penetrations
5
Step 5: Perform continuity test on both airbag circuit wires from ACM connector to airbag connector (with both disconnected) to identify open circuits, and resistance-to-ground test to identify short circuits
6
Step 6: If all wiring and airbag module test within specification, test ACM by substitution if available or have ACM professionally tested; clear codes, perform ACM system self-test, and verify repair by confirming no code return and proper airbag indicator lamp operation
Estimated Repair Cost
$200 - $1,500
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the Airbag Control Module (ACM) has detected a malfunction in the deployment circuit or control system for the third row right side airbag. The subfault designation suggests an issue with the electrical circuit, sensor feedback, or communication integrity affecting the airbag's a...
The most common cause of B0048 (Third Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control (Subfault)) is: Faulty or damaged airbag module connector, corroded pins, or loose connection at the third row right side airbag
Typical repair costs for B0048 range from $200 to $1,500, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The vehicle should not be driven as the third row right side airbag will not deploy in a collision, leaving occupants unprotected. This is a critical safety system failure requiring immediate professional repair before carrying passengers in the third row.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B0048 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
A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.
