AutoCodesChevrolet – B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction

Quick Answer

When the ignition is turned ON, the Passenger Presence Module and the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module perform tests to diagnose critical malfunctions within itself. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Presence Module, Passenger Presence Module harness is open or shorted, Passenger Presence Module 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
B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Passenger Presence Module Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Passenger Presence Module, Passenger Presence Module harness is open or shorted, Passenger Presence Module 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 634
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 18, 2022
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Code B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Description

When the ignition is turned ON, the Passenger Presence Module and the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module perform tests to diagnose critical malfunctions within itself. When the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module has completed the power-up mode, the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will establish communication with the Passenger Presence Module. The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will also request the instrument panel cluster to illuminate both of the PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators for 5 seconds. If the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module detect that the Passenger Presence Module has set a current Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will then disable the passenger instrument panel air bag deployment loop, set DTC B0081, and illuminate the AIR BAG indicator. The DTC will be set when the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module has a general fault present.
OBDII Code B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • Faulty Passenger Presence Module
  • Passenger Presence Module harness is open or shorted
  • Passenger Presence Module circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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 B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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 B0081 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of a Passenger Presence Module Malfunction (OBDII code B0081) in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying on, failure of the passenger airbag to deploy in a collision, and a warning message on the dashboard.

2. What can cause the OBDII code B0081 in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The most common cause of the B0081 code is a malfunction in the Passenger Presence Module (PPM), which is responsible for detecting the presence of a passenger in the front seat.

3. How serious is a Passenger Presence Module Malfunction in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

- A malfunctioning Passenger Presence Module can compromise the effectiveness of the passenger airbag system, potentially leading to serious safety risks in the event of a collision.

4. Can I continue driving my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado with the B0081 code present?

- It's not recommended to drive the vehicle with the B0081 code present, as the passenger airbag may not deploy correctly in the event of an accident, putting the occupant at risk.

5. How can I diagnose and repair a Passenger Presence Module Malfunction in my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Diagnosing and repairing a B0081 code typically requires specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise. It's recommended to take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic or dealership for proper diagnosis and repair.

6. Is it possible to reset the B0081 code in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado without fixing the underlying issue?

- While it's possible to clear the B0081 code using an OBDII scanner, it's crucial to address the root cause of the problem to ensure the safety of the vehicle's occupants.

7. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting a B0081 code in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

- DIY troubleshooting for the B0081 code is not recommended due to the complexity of the passenger presence system. It's best to seek professional help for accurate diagnosis and repair.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair a Passenger Presence Module Malfunction in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The cost of repairing a B0081 code can vary depending on the extent of the issue and the labor rates in your area. It's advisable to get a diagnosis from a mechanic to determine the exact cost.

9. Can a faulty seatbelt sensor trigger the B0081 code in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

- While a faulty seatbelt sensor may not directly trigger the B0081 code, it can affect the overall performance of the passenger presence system, leading to related issues.

10. How often should the Passenger Presence Module be inspected in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

- It's recommended to have the Passenger Presence Module inspected during routine maintenance checks or whenever you notice any issues with the airbag system to ensure it is functioning properly.

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