AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B0081 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

B0081 2018 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 2018 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 642

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 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — B0081 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0081 2018 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 2018 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.

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 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0081 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0081 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0081 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The common symptoms of code B0081 include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and a message indicating a "Passenger Presence Module Malfunction."

2. What does the OBDII code B0081 indicate in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The OBDII code B0081 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado points to a malfunction in the Passenger Presence Module, which is a crucial component of the vehicle's airbag system.

3. What are the possible causes of the Passenger Presence Module malfunction in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Potential causes of the Passenger Presence Module malfunction (code B0081) include a faulty Passenger Presence Sensor, wiring issues, or a problem with the module itself.

4. How can I diagnose the Passenger Presence Module issue in my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosing the Passenger Presence Module problem typically involves using a diagnostic scan tool to retrieve the specific trouble code (B0081) and inspecting the sensor and related wiring for any visible damage or issues.

5. Can I continue driving my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado with the B0081 code?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the B0081 code present, as it indicates a potential problem with the airbag system, which is crucial for occupant safety in the event of a collision.

6. How can I repair the Passenger Presence Module malfunction in my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairing the B0081 code typically involves replacing the faulty Passenger Presence Module, sensor, or addressing any wiring issues identified during diagnosis. It is recommended to consult a qualified mechanic for this repair.

7. Are there any safety implications of ignoring the B0081 code in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Ignoring the B0081 code can pose a safety risk, as the airbag system may not deploy correctly in the event of an accident, potentially increasing the risk of injury to occupants.

8. Is the repair for the Passenger Presence Module malfunction covered under warranty for a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Depending on the vehicle's warranty status and coverage, the repair for the Passenger Presence Module malfunction may be covered under the manufacturer's warranty. It is advisable to check with a Chevrolet dealership for specific warranty information.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the B0081 code issue in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

While diagnosing the issue may be possible for a DIY enthusiast with the right tools, repairing the Passenger Presence Module malfunction (code B0081) may require specialized knowledge and equipment, making it advisable to seek professional help.

10. How can I prevent the recurrence of the B0081 code in my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

To help prevent the recurrence of the B0081 code, it is essential to ensure regular maintenance of the airbag system, including inspecting and addressing any issues promptly to maintain the system's optimal functionality.