AutoCodes – Generic – B0086

B0086 Code - Right Front Side Impact Sensor

Quick Answer

The impact sensors are equipped on vehicles to supplement the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system performance. Common causes include Faulty Right Front Side Impact Sensor, Right Front Side Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted, Right 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: B0086 indicates Right Front Side Impact Sensor.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Front Side Impact Sensor, Right Front Side Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted, Right 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 7,586

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 24, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0086 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.

OBDII Code B0086 - Right Front Side Impact Sensor - AutoCodes.com — B0086 Code - Right Front Side Impact Sensor

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0086?

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

How to Fix the DTC B0086?

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

B0086:02 Right Front Side Impact Sensor Short to Ground
B0086:05 Right Front Side Impact Sensor High Voltage/Open
B0086:0F Right Front Side Impact Sensor Signal Erratic
B0086:39 Right Front Side Impact Sensor Internal Malfunction
B0086:3A Right Front Side Impact Sensor Incorrect Component Installed
B0086:71 Right Front Side Impact Sensor Invalid Data

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0086 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 B0086 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0086 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0086 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B0086 Buick — Right Front Side Impact Sensor
B0086 Cadillac — Right Front Side Impact Sensor
B0086 Chevrolet — Right Front Side Impact Sensor
B0086 GMC — Right Front Side Impact Sensor
B0086 Hummer — Right Front Side Impact Sensor
B0086 Pontiac — Right Front Side Impact Sensor
B0086 Saturn — Right Front Side Impact Sensor

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 B0086 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0086 (Right Front Side Impact Sensor)?

The common symptoms of code B0086 include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and a potential message indicating an issue with the right front side impact sensor.

2. What causes OBDII code B0086 to trigger?

Code B0086 is triggered when there is a malfunction detected in the right front side impact sensor circuit, which can be due to wiring issues, sensor damage, or a faulty sensor itself.

3. How can I diagnose the root cause of OBDII code B0086?

To diagnose the cause of code B0086, you can perform a thorough inspection of the right front side impact sensor wiring, connections, and sensor itself. Testing the sensor with a multimeter and checking for any visible damage can help pinpoint the issue.

4. What are the possible repair options for OBDII code B0086?

Repair options for code B0086 may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, repairing sensor connections, replacing the right front side impact sensor, or resetting the airbag system after addressing the underlying issue.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B0086 present?

It is not recommended to drive with OBDII code B0086 present, as the right front side impact sensor plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the airbag system in the event of a collision.

6. Can I reset OBDII code B0086 myself?

You can attempt to reset OBDII code B0086 yourself using an OBDII scanner, but it is important to address the root cause of the code to prevent it from reoccurring.

7. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B0086?

The cost to repair OBDII code B0086 can vary depending on the underlying issue, the need for parts replacement, and labor costs. It is advisable to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.

8. Will OBDII code B0086 affect the functionality of my airbags?

Yes, OBDII code B0086 can affect the functionality of the airbags, specifically the right front side airbag, as it relies on data from the side impact sensor to deploy in the event of a collision.

9. Can extreme weather conditions trigger OBDII code B0086?

Extreme weather conditions, such as excessive heat or moisture, can potentially cause issues with the right front side impact sensor wiring or connections, leading to the triggering of OBDII code B0086.

10. How often should I check the condition of the right front side impact sensor to prevent OBDII code B0086?

It is recommended to include a visual inspection of the right front side impact sensor during regular vehicle maintenance checks to ensure it is free from damage or corrosion that could lead to the triggering of OBDII code B0086.