AutoCodes – Pontiac – B0086 Pontiac

B0086 Pontiac 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 Pontiac 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 1,426

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0086 Pontiac?

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 Pontiac?

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 Pontiac 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 Pontiac code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0086 Pontiac 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 B0086 Pontiac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of an OBDII code B0086 in a Pontiac related to the Right Front Side Impact Sensor?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and potential non-deployment of the right front airbag during a collision.

2. What are the possible causes of the OBDII code B0086 in a Pontiac?

- The code B0086 typically indicates a fault with the Right Front Side Impact Sensor, which may be caused by wiring issues, sensor damage, or a faulty connection.

3. How can I diagnose the Right Front Side Impact Sensor issue triggering the OBDII code B0086 in my Pontiac?

- Diagnosing the issue involves inspecting the sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, checking connections for corrosion, and using a diagnostic scan tool to retrieve specific error codes.

4. Can I continue driving my Pontiac with the OBDII code B0086 related to the Right Front Side Impact Sensor?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the B0086 code present, as it indicates a potential problem with the airbag system, which could compromise safety in the event of a collision.

5. How can I repair the Right Front Side Impact Sensor issue causing the OBDII code B0086 in my Pontiac?

- Repairing the issue may involve replacing the Right Front Side Impact Sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connections, and resetting the airbag system using a diagnostic tool.

6. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting the OBDII code B0086 in a Pontiac at home?

- While basic inspections like checking for loose connections or visible damage can be done at home, diagnosing and repairing the Right Front Side Impact Sensor issue may require specialized tools and expertise.

7. Are there any safety precautions to consider when working on the Right Front Side Impact Sensor in a Pontiac?

- Prior to any repair work, it is crucial to disconnect the vehicle's battery and wait for a few minutes to discharge any residual power to avoid accidental airbag deployment.

8. How long does it typically take to repair the Right Front Side Impact Sensor issue triggering the OBDII code B0086 in a Pontiac?

- The repair time can vary depending on the extent of the issue, but replacing the sensor or repairing wiring connections usually takes a few hours to complete.

9. Can a mechanic help me reset the OBDII code B0086 in my Pontiac after repairing the Right Front Side Impact Sensor issue?

- Yes, a mechanic with the necessary diagnostic tools can reset the OBDII code B0086 after successfully repairing the Right Front Side Impact Sensor problem.

10. Is it advisable to seek professional help for diagnosing and repairing the OBDII code B0086 related to the Right Front Side Impact Sensor in a Pontiac?

- Due to the complexity of the airbag system and safety concerns, it is recommended to consult a qualified mechanic or dealership for accurate diagnosis and proper repair of the issue.