AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B0079 Chevrolet

B0079 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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 7,409

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 B0079 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet - Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B0079 Chevrolet Code - Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0079 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet?

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

B0079:01 Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit Short to Battery
B0079:02 Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit Short to Ground
B0079:04 Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit Open
B0079:05 Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit High Voltage or Open
B0079:06 Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit Low Voltage or Open
B0079:08 Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit Performance-Signal Invalid
B0079:0C Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit Low Current

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0079 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0079 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0079 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

B0079 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit
B0079 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit
B0079 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit
B0079 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit
B0079 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit

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 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet (Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit)?

- The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential issues with the deployment of the airbags in the event of a crash.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet?

- The code B0079 typically indicates a fault in the driver seat position sensor circuit, which can be caused by damaged wiring, a faulty sensor, or a poor connection.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet?

- To diagnose the problem, you can use a diagnostic scanner to read the fault codes, inspect the wiring and connectors of the driver seat position sensor, and perform a sensor test if necessary.

4. Can I still drive my Chevrolet vehicle with OBDII code B0079 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the B0079 code active, as it may affect the proper functioning of the airbag system in case of an accident. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet?

- Repairing the B0079 code involves identifying and fixing the underlying issue with the driver seat position sensor circuit, which may require repairing or replacing damaged wiring, sensor, or connectors.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet without fixing the underlying problem?

- While you can clear the code using a diagnostic scanner, it will likely reappear if the root cause of the issue is not addressed. It's important to fix the problem to ensure the safety features work correctly.

7. Are there any safety concerns associated with OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet?

- Yes, there are safety concerns as the code relates to the driver seat position sensor, which is crucial for the proper deployment of airbags during a collision. It's essential to address the issue promptly.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet at home?

- Depending on your skill level and access to the necessary tools, you may be able to diagnose and repair the B0079 code at home. However, if you're unsure, it's best to seek professional help.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet at a dealership or repair shop?

- The cost of repairing the B0079 code can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the labor rates of the dealership or repair shop. It's advisable to get a quote for the specific repair needed.

10. Will fixing OBDII code B0079 Chevrolet require reprogramming or calibration?

- In some cases, fixing the B0079 code may require reprogramming or recalibration of the sensor or related components. It's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper repair.