AutoCodesBuick – B0079 Buick

B0079 Buick Code - Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit

Quick Answer

The seat position sensor is used to determine the proximity of the front driver or passenger seat position with respect to the front air bag. Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Position Sensor, Driver Seat Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Driver Seat Position Sensor 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
B0079 Buick indicates Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Position Sensor, Driver Seat Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Driver Seat Position Sensor 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 1,112
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 17, 2022
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Code B0079 Buick Description

The seat position sensor is used to determine the proximity of the front driver or passenger seat position with respect to the front air bag. There are two states of seat position, forward and rearward. The seat position sensor interfaces with the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) and allows the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module to disable stage 2 of the air bag for a front seat that is forward of the forward/rearward point in seat track. The seat position sensor provides two current ranges, one range for the forward seat position and one for the rearward seat position. When the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module receives input from a seat position sensor that the seat is rearward, and the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module will not disable stage 2 deployment. When the seat is forward, the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will disable stage 2 deployment. The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module monitors the seat position sensor circuit and if a fault is detected, the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will set Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B0079 and disable stage 2 frontal deployment.
OBDII Code B0079 Buick - Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit - AutoCodes.com
B0079 Buick Code - Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0079 Buick?

  • Faulty Driver Seat Position Sensor
  • Driver Seat Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Driver Seat Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0079 Buick?

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 B0079 Buick 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 B0079 Buick code?

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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 B0079 Buick Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0079 in a Buick related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

- Common symptoms include issues with the power seat functionality, such as the seat not moving properly or the seat position not adjusting correctly.

2. What typically causes the OBDII code B0079 related to the driver seat position sensor circuit in a Buick?

- The most common cause is a malfunctioning driver seat position sensor, which may be due to wiring issues, sensor damage, or sensor calibration problems.

3. How can I diagnose the driver seat position sensor circuit issue causing the OBDII code B0079 in my Buick?

- Diagnosis usually involves checking the wiring connections, inspecting the sensor for damage, and using a diagnostic tool to verify sensor readings and calibrations.

4. Can I repair the driver seat position sensor circuit problem causing the OBDII code B0079 in my Buick on my own?

- Depending on your experience with automotive repairs, you may be able to address the issue by inspecting and repairing wiring connections, replacing the sensor, or recalibrating the sensor.

5. Is it safe to drive my Buick if the OBDII code B0079 related to the driver seat position sensor circuit is present?

- It is generally safe to drive, but you may experience issues with the power seat functionality, so it is recommended to address the problem promptly to avoid any inconvenience.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair the driver seat position sensor circuit issue causing the OBDII code B0079 in a Buick?

- The cost can vary depending on the specific problem and whether you perform the repair yourself or take it to a mechanic. It may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code B0079 related to the driver seat position sensor circuit in my Buick make the problem go away?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue with the driver seat position sensor circuit. The problem should be diagnosed and repaired to prevent further issues.

8. Are there any common recalls or technical service bulletins related to the OBDII code B0079 in Buick vehicles?

- It is recommended to check with Buick dealership or online resources for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to the driver seat position sensor circuit issue causing the B0079 code.

9. How long does it typically take to repair the driver seat position sensor circuit problem causing the OBDII code B0079 in a Buick?

- The repair time can vary depending on the extent of the issue and your experience with automotive repairs. It may take a few hours to a full day to diagnose and fix the problem.

10. Can I prevent the OBDII code B0079 related to the driver seat position sensor circuit from occurring in my Buick in the future?

- Regular maintenance and inspections of the driver seat position sensor and related wiring can help prevent the occurrence of the B0079 code. Ensuring proper seating adjustments and avoiding excessive force on the power seat can also help prevent sensor damage.

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