AutoCodesGeneric – B0021:01

B0021:01 Code - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Short to Battery

Quick Answer

A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be stored in non-volatile memory if a malfunction is detected. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seat Side Air Bag, Passenger Seat Side Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seat Side 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
B0021:01 indicates Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Short to Battery.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seat Side Air Bag, Passenger Seat Side Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seat Side 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 367
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 09, 2022
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Code B0021:01 Description

A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be stored in non-volatile memory if a malfunction is detected. 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 the passenger seat side 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. A shorting bar is used within the passenger seat side air bag connector which will short together both high and low circuits when the connector is disconnected. This will help to prevent unwanted deployment of the air bag during servicing. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the air bag control circuit is shorted to voltage for 2 seconds.
OBDII Code B0021:01 - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Short to Battery - AutoCodes.com
B0021:01 Code - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Short to Battery

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0021:01?

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

How to Fix the DTC B0021:01?

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 B0021:01 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 B0021:01 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0021:01 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0021:01 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 B0021:01 Code

What does the OBDII code B0021:01 mean?

The code B0021:01 indicates a short to battery in the passenger seat side airbag deployment loop circuit.

What are the common symptoms of code B0021:01?

Symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light, possible malfunction messages in the dashboard, and the airbag system being disabled.

What causes the B0021:01 code to appear?

This code is typically caused by damaged wiring, a short circuit, a faulty airbag module, or issues with connectors related to the passenger seat side airbag.

Can the airbag system still function if code B0021:01 is present?

No, the airbag system may be disabled when this code is active, posing a safety risk in the event of an accident.

How can I diagnose the root cause of code B0021:01?

Use a scan tool to confirm the code, visually inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, and test the airbag module for proper functionality.

Is it safe to drive with code B0021:01 active?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, the airbag system is compromised, which is a safety concern and should be addressed promptly.

Can a short to battery in the airbag circuit cause other electrical issues?

Yes, a short to battery could potentially affect other electrical components or lead to system malfunctions.

How can I repair code B0021:01?

Repairs may involve replacing damaged wiring, connectors, or the airbag module, and should be performed by a qualified technician due to safety concerns.

Can code B0021:01 be cleared without fixing the underlying issue?

Clearing the code without addressing the cause will result in the code reappearing and the airbag system remaining disabled.

Should I use an aftermarket airbag module to repair code B0021:01?

It is recommended to use OEM components to ensure compatibility and proper functioning of the airbag system.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B0021:01 OBDII Code

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