AutoCodesGeneric – B0085:3A

B0085:3A Code - Left Front Side Impact Sensor Incorrect Component Installed

Quick Answer

The impact sensors are equipped on vehicles to supplement the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system performance. Common causes include Faulty Left Front Side Impact Sensor, Left Front Side Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted, Left Front Side Impact 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
B0085:3A indicates Left Front Side Impact Sensor Incorrect Component Installed.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Left Front Side Impact Sensor, Left Front Side Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted, Left Front Side Impact 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 719
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 24, 2022
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Code B0085:3A Description

The impact sensors are equipped on vehicles to supplement the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system performance. The impact sensors are electronic and are not part of the deployment loops, but instead provide inputs to the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). The impact sensors can assist in determining the severity of some frontal and side collisions. The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module use the input from the impact sensors to assist in determining the severity of a collision, further supporting air bag deployment. If the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module determines a deployment is warranted, the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will cause current to flow through the deployment loops deploying the air bags. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module has received identification message from the sensor, which does not match the identification stored in the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module memory.
OBDII Code B0085:3A - Left Front Side Impact Sensor Incorrect Component Installed - AutoCodes.com
B0085:3A Code - Left Front Side Impact Sensor Incorrect Component Installed

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0085:3A?

  • Faulty Left Front Side Impact Sensor
  • Left Front Side Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Left Front Side Impact Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0085:3A?

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 B0085:3A 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 B0085:3A code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0085:3A code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0085:3A 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 B0085:3A Code

1. What does the OBDII code B0085:3A mean?

The code B0085:3A indicates that the left front side impact sensor is either the incorrect component or not properly matched to the vehicle's specifications.

2. What are the common symptoms of the B0085:3A code?

Symptoms may include an illuminated airbag warning light, malfunctioning airbag system, or a failure of airbags to deploy during a collision.

3. What causes the B0085:3A code to be triggered?

The code is typically caused by the installation of an incompatible side impact sensor, a sensor with incorrect part numbers, or a sensor that is not calibrated for the vehicle.

4. Can I drive with the B0085:3A code active?

It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it may indicate a compromised airbag system, which can impact vehicle safety during an accident.

5. How is the B0085:3A code diagnosed?

A technician will use a scan tool to verify the code, inspect the left front side impact sensor, check the part number and compatibility, and test the wiring and connections.

6. What repairs are needed to fix the B0085:3A code?

Repairs may include replacing the incorrect impact sensor with the proper one, checking for software updates, or repairing damaged wiring and connectors.

7. Can the B0085:3A code be cleared without replacing the sensor?

The code can only be cleared if the root issue is resolved, such as installing the correct sensor or repairing faulty wiring. Simply clearing the code without fixing the problem will likely result in it returning.

8. How can I prevent the B0085:3A code from occurring?

Ensure that any replacement sensors are OEM or approved aftermarket parts specifically designed for your vehicle make, model, and year.

9. Is the B0085:3A code covered under warranty?

It depends on your vehicle’s warranty terms. Airbag-related components may be covered under a longer safety warranty, so check with your manufacturer or dealer.

10. Will a faulty side impact sensor affect other systems in my car?

Yes, a faulty or incorrect sensor can affect the airbag system and potentially disable airbags, reducing overall vehicle safety in the event of a collision.

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