AutoCodes – Cadillac – B0071 Cadillac

B0071 Cadillac Code - Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit

Quick Answer

The seat belt tension sensor is a sensor mounted on the passenger seat belt retractor and provides input to the Passenger Presence Module. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seat Belt Retractor (Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor), Passenger Seat Belt Retractor harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seat Belt Retractor 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: B0071 Cadillac indicates Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seat Belt Retractor (Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor), Passenger Seat Belt Retractor harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seat Belt Retractor 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 1,615

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 17, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0071 Cadillac Description

The seat belt tension sensor is a sensor mounted on the passenger seat belt retractor and provides input to the Passenger Presence Module. When an infant car seat is properly restrained on the front passenger seat, the seat belt is tightly secured through the car seat. The seat belt pulls on the tension sensor and changes the voltage signal to the Passenger Presence Module. The Passenger Presence Module monitors the belt tension sensor signal circuit and if a fault is detected, the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set. When the Passenger Presence Module detects this DTC, it will send out a serial data message, and the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will notify the customer of the enable/disable status by illuminating the OFF indicator on the PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators. The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will then suppress the deployment of the passenger instrument panel air bag and illuminate the AIR BAG indicator.

OBDII Code B0071 Cadillac - Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B0071 Cadillac Code - Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0071 Cadillac?

Faulty Passenger Seat Belt Retractor (Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor)
Passenger Seat Belt Retractor harness is open or shorted
Passenger Seat Belt Retractor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Passenger Presence Module

How to Fix the DTC B0071 Cadillac?

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

B0071:03 Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit Voltage Below Threshold
B0071:04 Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit Open
B0071:07 Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit Voltage Above Threshold
B0071:08 Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit Voltage Performance Signal Invalid

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0071 Cadillac 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 B0071 Cadillac code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0071 Cadillac code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 B0071 Cadillac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0071 in a Cadillac related to the passenger seat belt tension sensor circuit?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, the passenger airbag system not deploying properly in the event of a collision, and potential issues with the seat belt pretensioner system.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code B0071 in a Cadillac?

Possible causes of this code can include a faulty passenger seat belt tension sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, a malfunctioning airbag control module, or a problem with the passenger seat occupancy sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code B0071 in my Cadillac?

Diagnosing the issue typically involves using a diagnostic scan tool to retrieve the specific fault code, checking the seat belt tension sensor and related components for physical damage or wear, inspecting the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage, and conducting any necessary resistance or continuity tests.

4. Can I continue driving my Cadillac with OBDII code B0071 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it indicates a potential safety issue with the passenger airbag system. It is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to ensure the proper functioning of the airbag system.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B0071 in my Cadillac related to the passenger seat belt tension sensor circuit?

Repairing this code may involve replacing the faulty passenger seat belt tension sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, resetting the airbag control module, or addressing any other underlying issues identified during the diagnostic process.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code B0071 in a Cadillac without fixing the underlying issue?

While you may be able to clear the code temporarily using a diagnostic scan tool, the underlying issue causing the code will likely persist. It is essential to address the root cause of the problem to prevent the code from reoccurring and ensure the proper functioning of the airbag system.

7. Are there any safety precautions I should take when working on the passenger seat belt tension sensor circuit in my Cadillac?

When working on the airbag system or related components, it is crucial to disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait for the specified amount of time to allow the system to discharge completely. Additionally, follow all safety procedures outlined in the vehicle's service manual to prevent accidental deployment of the airbags.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive knowledge repair OBDII code B0071 in a Cadillac?

While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to diagnose and repair simple electrical issues, working on the airbag system, including the passenger seat belt tension sensor circuit, requires a certain level of expertise and specialized tools. It is recommended to consult a qualified mechanic or technician for proper diagnosis and repair.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0071 in a Cadillac at a dealership or repair shop?

The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, the labor rates of the dealership or repair shop, and the cost of any replacement parts needed. It is recommended to obtain a detailed estimate from a qualified technician before proceeding with the repair.

10. Can OBDII code B0071 in a Cadillac be prevented in the future?

While some causes of this code may be unavoidable, regular maintenance and inspections of the airbag system, including the passenger seat belt tension sensor circuit, can help identify potential issues early and prevent more significant problems from occurring.