AutoCodes – Generic – B0013:04

B0013:04 Code - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Open

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: B0013:04 indicates Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Open.
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 844

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 05, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0013:04 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 is open for 2 s.

OBDII Code B0013:04 - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Open - AutoCodes.com — B0013:04 Code - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0013:04?

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 B0013:04?

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.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B0013:01 Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Short to Battery
B0013:02 Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Short to Ground
B0013:04 Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Open Circuit
B0013:0D Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 High Resistance
B0013:0E Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Low Resistance

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0013:04 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 B0013:04 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0013:04 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0013:04 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 B0013:04 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0013:04 (Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Open)?

- The most common symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard and a potential non-deployment of the driver's steering wheel airbag in the event of a collision.

2. What could cause the OBDII code B0013:04 to set off?

- This code is typically triggered by a fault in the driver's steering wheel airbag deployment loop, often due to a loose or damaged connection within the airbag system.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B0013:04?

- Diagnosis usually involves inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the driver's steering wheel airbag, checking for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections that could be causing the open circuit fault.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code B0013:04 active?

- It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as the driver's steering wheel airbag may not deploy in the event of a collision, potentially compromising your safety.

5. What are the repair options for OBDII code B0013:04?

- Repair options typically involve fixing the open circuit in the driver's steering wheel airbag deployment loop, which may require repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0013:04?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the extent of the damage and whether any components need to be replaced. It is advisable to consult with a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.

7. Can I reset the OBDII code B0013:04 myself?

- While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, it is crucial to first address the underlying issue causing the fault to prevent the code from reoccurring.

8. Are there any safety precautions I should take when working on the airbag system related to OBDII code B0013:04?

- It is highly recommended to disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait for at least 10 minutes before working on the airbag system to prevent accidental deployment, which could be dangerous.

9. How urgent is it to address OBDII code B0013:04?

- It is essential to address this code promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the driver's steering wheel airbag in the event of an accident and to maintain the overall safety of the vehicle.

10. Can OBDII code B0013:04 be a false alarm?

- While it is possible for a loose connection or momentary fault to trigger this code, it is crucial to investigate and address the issue to prevent any potential safety risks associated with the airbag system.