AutoCodesGeneric – B0021:0E

B0021:0E Code - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Low Resistance

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
B0021:0E indicates Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Low Resistance.
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 588
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 B0021:0E 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 deployment loop resistance is less than 1.4 Ω for 2 seconds.
OBDII Code B0021:0E - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Low Resistance - AutoCodes.com
B0021:0E Code - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Low Resistance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0021:0E?

  • 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 B0021:0E?

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 B0021:0E 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 B0021:0E code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0021:0E code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0021:0E 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 B0021:0E Code

1. What does OBDII code B0021:0E mean?

Code B0021:0E indicates a problem with the passenger seat side airbag deployment loop, specifically that the resistance in the circuit is lower than the manufacturer's specifications.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B0021:0E?

Symptoms may include an illuminated airbag warning light on the dashboard and the potential deactivation of the passenger side airbag system.

3. What causes code B0021:0E to appear?

Common causes include damaged or corroded wiring, loose or faulty connectors, a short circuit, or a defective passenger seat side airbag module.

4. Is it safe to drive with code B0021:0E active?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as the airbag system may not function properly in the event of a collision, increasing the risk of injury.

5. How can I diagnose the cause of code B0021:0E?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, checking the resistance of the airbag circuit with a multimeter, and using a scan tool to clear the code and see if it reappears.

6. Can I fix code B0021:0E myself?

If you have automotive electrical experience, you may be able to repair damaged wiring or connectors. However, due to the complexity and safety concerns of airbag systems, professional repair is often recommended.

7. How much does it cost to repair code B0021:0E?

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause, ranging from $50 to $200 for minor wiring fixes and up to $1,000 or more if the airbag module needs replacement.

8. Do I need to replace the passenger side airbag to fix code B0021:0E?

Not always. The issue may be related to wiring or connectors rather than the airbag itself. Proper diagnosis is essential to determine if replacement is necessary.

9. Can a weak car battery cause code B0021:0E?

A weak or failing battery is unlikely to directly cause this code, but voltage fluctuations could potentially affect the airbag system. Ensure the battery is in good condition during diagnosis.

10. Will clearing the code with a scan tool fix the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will not fix the problem. The code is likely to reappear until the low resistance in the airbag deployment loop is resolved.

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