AutoCodes – GMC – B0020 2018 GMC Sierra

B0020 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2

Quick Answer

During a side or 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 an air bag or pretensioner. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag, Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection. 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: B0020 2018 GMC Sierra indicates Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag, Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection.
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 434

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 06, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0020 2018 GMC Sierra Description

During a side or 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 an air bag or pretensioner. There are 2 shorting bars that will short together control circuits when the connector is disconnected. This will help to prevent unwanted deployment of the air bag or pretensioner during servicing.

OBDII Code B0020 2018 GMC Sierra - Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 - AutoCodes.com — B0020 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0020 2018 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag
Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag harness is open or shorted
Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0020 2018 GMC Sierra?

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

B0020:01 Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Short to Battery
B0020:02 Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Short to Ground
B0020:04 Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Open
B0020:0D Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 High Resistance
B0020:0E Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Low Resistance

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0020 2018 GMC Sierra 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 B0020 2018 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0020 2018 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0020 2018 GMC Sierra 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 B0020 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0020 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the instrument panel and potential non-deployment of the passenger side airbag during a collision.

2. What does the OBDII code B0020 for a 2018 GMC Sierra indicate?

OBDII code B0020 specifically relates to the Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2, signaling a fault in the deployment system on the passenger side.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0020 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty passenger airbag module, damaged wiring in the airbag system, a defective clockspring, or issues with the airbag control module.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0020 in my 2018 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis usually involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code, followed by thorough inspection of the passenger airbag system components for any visible damage or defects.

5. Is it safe to drive my 2018 GMC Sierra with OBDII code B0020?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an active airbag fault code, as it may compromise passenger safety in the event of a collision. Prompt diagnosis and repair are advised.

6. Can I reset the OBDII code B0020 in my 2018 GMC Sierra myself?

While you can clear the fault code with an OBDII scanner, it is crucial to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring and ensure the airbag system's proper functionality.

7. What are the repair options for OBDII code B0020 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Repair options may include replacing the faulty passenger airbag module, repairing damaged wiring, fixing the clockspring, or reprogramming the airbag control module, depending on the root cause.

8. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code B0020 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repairs can vary depending on the specific cause of the fault, but it is advisable to consult a professional technician for an accurate diagnosis and cost estimate.

9. Are there any safety precautions I should take when working on the airbag system related to OBDII code B0020?

Yes, it is crucial to disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait for a specified time before working on the airbag system to prevent accidental deployment, ensuring your safety during repairs.

10. Can OBDII code B0020 in a 2018 GMC Sierra be related to other airbag system issues?

While B0020 specifically points to the Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2, it is advisable to conduct a comprehensive inspection to rule out other potential airbag system faults.