AutoCodes – Ford – B0072 Ford

B0072 Ford Code - Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control

Quick Answer

The Restraints Control Module (RCM) analyzes the deployment loop resistance to determine if a fault exists. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner, Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 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: B0072 Ford indicates Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner, Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 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 15,300

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 Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0072 Ford Description

The Restraints Control Module (RCM) analyzes the deployment loop resistance to determine if a fault exists. The value displayed in the PID is the deployment loop resistance measured by the RCM. If the value displayed is lower or higher than the desired range, the RCM can set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). As the deployment loop resistance drifts farther outside the desired range, the chance for a DTC increases. Small variations in resistance can occur due to the effect of road vibrations on terminal fit. Crimps and terminals can be affected by stress and harness movement and can cause an increase in resistance due to wire strain. These variables can result in an intermittent fault. For this reason, the test requires the PID value to be within the desired range before the fault is considered repaired, regardless if the module is reporting an on-demand DTC at the time of diagnosis. Following this direction helps make sure that minor changes in resistance do not create a repeat concern. This test uses the process of elimination to diagnose each part of the deployment loop circuit including:
- Wiring
- Connections
- Driver seatbelt anchor pretensioner
- RCM

OBDII Code B0072 Ford - Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control - AutoCodes.com — B0072 Ford Code - Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0072 Ford?

Faulty Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner
Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted
Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Restraints Control Module (RCM)

How to Fix the DTC B0072 Ford?

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

B0072:11 Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control: Circuit Short to Ground
B0072:12 Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control: Circuit Short to Battery
B0072:13 Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control: Circuit Open
B0072:1A Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control: Circuit Resistance Below Threshold

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0072 Ford 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 B0072 Ford code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0072 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0072 Ford 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 B0072 Ford Code

1. What does the OBDII code B0072 for Ford indicate?

The code B0072 indicates a problem with the Passenger Seatbelt Pretensioner 'A' Deployment Control system in a Ford vehicle.

2. What are the common symptoms of a B0072 code in a Ford car?

Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, potential non-deployment of the passenger seatbelt pretensioner during an accident, and diagnostic trouble codes being stored in the vehicle's system.

3. What are the possible causes of the B0072 Ford trouble code?

Possible causes include a faulty seatbelt pretensioner, damaged wiring or connectors in the pretensioner circuit, a blown fuse, or a problem with the airbag control module.

4. How can I diagnose a B0072 code in my Ford vehicle?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code, inspecting the seatbelt pretensioner system for physical damage, checking the wiring and connectors for continuity, and testing the components for proper functionality.

5. Can I drive my Ford with a B0072 code?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an active B0072 code, as it indicates a potential safety issue with the passenger seatbelt pretensioner system. It is advisable to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

6. How can I repair a B0072 trouble code in my Ford car?

Repairing a B0072 code may involve replacing the faulty seatbelt pretensioner, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, resetting the airbag control module, or addressing any other underlying issues identified during diagnosis.

7. Is it safe to reset the B0072 code without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the underlying problem may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it will not fix the root cause of the issue. It is essential to diagnose and repair the problem to ensure the proper functioning of the seatbelt pretensioner system.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix a B0072 trouble code in a Ford vehicle?

While some simple checks like inspecting wiring and connectors can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing a B0072 code often requires specialized tools and expertise. It is recommended to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.

9. How much does it cost to repair a B0072 code in a Ford car?

The cost of repairing a B0072 code can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, the labor rates in your area, and the cost of parts needed for the repair. It is best to obtain a quote from a mechanic or dealership for an accurate estimate.

10. How long does it take to fix a B0072 code in a Ford vehicle?

The time required to fix a B0072 code can vary based on the complexity of the issue and the availability of parts. Simple repairs may be completed in a few hours, while more involved repairs could take longer. It is advisable to consult with a mechanic for a more precise timeframe.