AutoCodes – Saturn – B0078 Saturn

B0078 Saturn Code - Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance

Quick Answer

The Inflatable Restraint Side Impact Sensor (SIS) utilizes a unidirectional 2-wire circuit. Common causes include Faulty Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS), Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) harness is open or shorted, Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) 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: B0078 Saturn indicates Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS), Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) harness is open or shorted, Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) 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 1,114

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 Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0078 Saturn Description

The Inflatable Restraint Side Impact Sensor (SIS) utilizes a unidirectional 2-wire circuit. The SIS modulates current on the interface to send ID, State of Health, and deployment commands to the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). The SDM serves as a power source and a ground for the SIS. When the ignition is turned on and input power from the SDM is first detected, the SIS responds by performing internal diagnostics and sending an ID to the SDM. The SDM considers the ID to be valid if the response time is less than 5 seconds. The SIS continually communicates status messages to the SDM, which determines if a fault is present in the SIS circuit. When a fault is detected, the SDM resets the SIS twice by removing and reapplying power. If the fault is still present, the SDM will set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code B0078 Saturn - Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance - AutoCodes.com — B0078 Saturn Code - Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0078 Saturn?

Faulty Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS)
Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) harness is open or shorted
Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0078 Saturn?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0078 Saturn 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 B0078 Saturn code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0078 Saturn code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0078 Saturn 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 B0078 Saturn Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0078 Saturn related to the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance?

- The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential issues with the passenger side airbag deployment.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0078 Saturn indicating Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance issues?

- Possible causes may include a faulty impact sensor, wiring harness issues, sensor misalignment, or a problem with the airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0078 Saturn related to the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance?

- Diagnosis involves using a scan tool to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the impact sensor and related wiring for damage, and performing a system test to determine the exact issue.

4. Can I continue driving my Saturn with OBDII code B0078 indicating Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance?

- It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code present, as it may compromise the effectiveness of the passenger side airbag in the event of a collision.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B0078 Saturn for Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance problems?

- Repair typically involves replacing the faulty impact sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring proper sensor alignment, and clearing the fault code with a scan tool.

6. Are there any safety precautions I should take when working on the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor related to OBDII code B0078 Saturn?

- It is essential to disconnect the vehicle's battery before working on the airbag system to prevent accidental deployment and follow proper safety procedures outlined in the vehicle's service manual.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B0078 Saturn indicating Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance issues?

- While some basic diagnostics can be performed by a DIY enthusiast, repair or replacement of the impact sensor and related components should be carried out by a qualified technician due to the sensitive nature of the airbag system.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0078 Saturn for Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance problems?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue, but it may range from $200 to $500 for parts and labor, including sensor replacement and wiring repairs.

9. What is the function of the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor in a Saturn vehicle?

- The impact sensor is responsible for detecting a collision on the passenger side of the vehicle and triggering the deployment of the airbag to protect the occupant in the event of an impact.

10. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code B0078 Saturn for Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance?

- It is advisable to check with the manufacturer or authorized dealerships for any recalls or technical service bulletins addressing issues with the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor on your specific Saturn model.