AutoCodesGeneric – B0012:0D

B0012:0D Code - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1 High Resistance

Quick Answer

During a frontal crash of sufficient force, the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will allow current to flow through the deployment loop in order to deploy the steering wheel air bag. Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag, Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag Coil, Steering Wheel Air Bag harness is open or shorted. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
B0012:0D indicates Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1 High Resistance.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag, Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag Coil, Steering Wheel Air Bag harness is open or shorted.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 2,073
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 05, 2022
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Code B0012:0D Description

During a frontal crash of sufficient force, the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will allow current to flow through the deployment loop in order to deploy the steering wheel air bag. The SDM performs continuous diagnostic tests on the deployment loops to check for proper circuit continuity and for shorts to ground or voltage. There are two shorting bars used within the steering wheel air bag coil connector which will short together both steering wheel air bag stage 1 high control circuit and steering wheel air bag stage 1 low control circuit and both steering wheel air bag stage 2 high control circuit and steering wheel air bag stage 2 low control circuit when the connector is disconnected. This will help to prevent unwanted deployment of the steering wheel air bag during servicing. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the steering wheel air bag deployment loop resistance is greater than 4.4 Ω for 2 s.
OBDII Code B0012:0D - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1 High Resistance - AutoCodes.com
B0012:0D Code - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1 High Resistance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0012:0D?

  • Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag
  • Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag Coil
  • Steering Wheel Air Bag harness is open or shorted
  • Steering Wheel Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0012:0D?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0012:0D code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the B0012:0D code?

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Precautions for SRS “AIR BAG” and “SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONER” Service

  • Never probe the electrical connectors on air bag, side air curtain modules or seat belts.
  • Never disassemble or tamper with safety belt buckle/retractor pretensioners, adaptive load limiting retractors, safety belt inflators, or probe the electrical connectors.
  • Do not use electrical test equipment to check SRS circuits unless instructed to in this Service Manual.
  • Before servicing the SRS, turn ignition switch OFF, disconnect both battery cables and wait at least 3 minutes. For approximately 3 minutes after the cables are removed, it is still possible for the air bag and seat belt pre-tensioner to deploy. Therefore, do not work on any SRS connectors or wires until at least 3 minutes have passed.

Failure to follow this instruction may result in the accidental deployment of these modules, which increases the risk of serious personal injury or death.

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B0012:0D Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0012:0D?

The most common symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard and a potential loss of functionality in the driver steering wheel airbag.

2. What does the OBDII code B0012:0D indicate?

This code specifically points to a high resistance issue within the driver steering wheel airbag deployment loop stage 1.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0012:0D?

Potential causes may include damaged wiring in the airbag system, a faulty clock spring, loose connections, or a malfunctioning airbag module.

4. How serious is OBDII code B0012:0D?

This code indicates a potential safety issue as it relates to the driver's airbag system. It is important to address this problem promptly to ensure the airbag deploys correctly in the event of a collision.

5. Can I continue driving with OBDII code B0012:0D present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code active, as it may compromise the proper functioning of the driver steering wheel airbag in the event of an accident.

6. How can I diagnose OBDII code B0012:0D?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the code, followed by inspecting the airbag system components, checking wiring for damage, and testing electrical connections.

7. How is OBDII code B0012:0D typically repaired?

Common repair steps include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, addressing any loose connections, replacing the clock spring if faulty, or replacing the airbag module if necessary.

8. Can I reset OBDII code B0012:0D without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the code using a scan tool, it is crucial to address the root cause of the problem to ensure the airbag system functions correctly and maintains safety.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B0012:0D?

The repair cost can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, the extent of the damage, and whether any components need replacement. It is advisable to consult a professional for an accurate estimate.

10. Is OBDII code B0012:0D a common issue in specific vehicle makes or models?

This code may occur in various vehicle makes and models equipped with airbag systems. However, the prevalence can vary, and it is not limited to specific manufacturers.

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