AutoCodes – GMC – B0081 2015 GMC Sierra

B0081 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra 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 340

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 18, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0081 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — B0081 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0081 2015 GMC Sierra?

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 2015 GMC Sierra?

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

B0081:00 Passenger Presence Module Malfunction (sets in the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module)
B0081:11 Passenger Presence Module Above Threshold (Build Check Failure) (sets in the Passenger Presence Module)
B0081:3A Passenger Presence Module Incorrect Component Installed (sets in the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module)
B0081:4B Passenger Presence Module Calibration Not Learned (sets in the Passenger Presence Module)
B0081:5A Passenger Presence Module Plausibility Failure (sets in the Passenger Presence Module)
B0081:71 Passenger Presence Module Invalid Serial Data Received (sets in Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module)

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0081 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0081 2015 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0081 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are common symptoms of the OBDII code B0081 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The common symptoms of the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and possible issues with the passenger airbag system.

2. What does the OBDII code B0081 indicate in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The B0081 code indicates a malfunction in the Passenger Presence Module (PPM) of the airbag system in a 2015 GMC Sierra.

3. What are possible causes of the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes of the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra include a faulty Passenger Presence Module, wiring issues, or a poor connection in the airbag system.

4. How can I diagnose the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosing the B0081 code involves using a scan tool to retrieve the specific error codes, checking the wiring and connections related to the Passenger Presence Module, and performing any necessary component tests.

5. Can I drive my 2015 GMC Sierra with the B0081 code?

It is not recommended to drive your 2015 GMC Sierra with the B0081 code present, as it indicates a malfunction in the passenger airbag system, which could affect the overall safety of the vehicle.

6. How can I repair the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairing the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra may involve replacing the faulty Passenger Presence Module, repairing any damaged wiring or connections, and clearing the error codes with a scan tool.

7. Is it safe to reset the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the B0081 code without fixing the underlying issue is not recommended, as it may lead to the airbag system not functioning properly in the event of a collision.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

While some basic diagnostics and repairs can be done by a DIY enthusiast, fixing the B0081 code may require specialized tools and knowledge of airbag systems. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for this issue.

9. How much does it cost to repair the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repairing the B0081 code in a 2015 GMC Sierra can vary depending on the specific underlying issue, the labor rates of the repair shop, and the cost of any replacement parts needed.

10. How often does the B0081 code occur in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The B0081 code can occur sporadically in a 2015 GMC Sierra due to various factors, but it is generally not a common recurring issue once it has been properly diagnosed and repaired.