AutoCodes – Saturn – B0086 Saturn

B0086 Saturn 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 Saturn 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 1,512

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0086 Saturn?

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 Saturn?

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 Saturn 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 Saturn code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0086 Saturn 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 Saturn Code

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

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and a potential loss of functionality in the right front side impact airbag system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0086 Saturn (Right Front Side Impact Sensor)?

- The code B0086 typically indicates a malfunction or failure in the right front side impact sensor, which could be caused by wiring issues, sensor damage, or a faulty connection.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0086 Saturn (Right Front Side Impact Sensor)?

- Diagnosing this code usually involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific error code, inspecting the wiring and connections of the right front side impact sensor, and testing the sensor's functionality.

4. Can I still drive my Saturn with the OBDII code B0086 (Right Front Side Impact Sensor)?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with an illuminated airbag warning light, as it indicates a potential issue with the airbag system's functionality. It is advisable to address the problem promptly to ensure safety.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B0086 Saturn (Right Front Side Impact Sensor)?

- Repairing this code typically involves replacing the right front side impact sensor if it is found to be faulty. Additionally, checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connections may be necessary.

6. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code B0086 Saturn (Right Front Side Impact Sensor) and ignore the issue?

- It is not recommended to reset the code and ignore the issue, as it could compromise the effectiveness of the right front side impact airbag system in the event of a collision. It is crucial to address the problem to ensure safety.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B0086 Saturn (Right Front Side Impact Sensor)?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and replace the right front side impact sensor themselves, it is recommended to have the issue addressed by a professional mechanic to ensure proper repair and safety.

8. Are there any recalls related to OBDII code B0086 Saturn (Right Front Side Impact Sensor)?

- It is advisable to check with Saturn or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for any recalls related to the right front side impact sensor or the OBDII code B0086 to see if your vehicle may be affected.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B0086 Saturn (Right Front Side Impact Sensor)?

- The cost of repairing the OBDII code B0086 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, the labor rates of the repair shop, and the cost of the replacement parts needed, such as the right front side impact sensor.

10. Can a faulty right front side impact sensor trigger other OBDII codes in a Saturn vehicle?

- A faulty right front side impact sensor in a Saturn vehicle may trigger other related OBDII codes, such as codes related to the airbag system or impact sensors. It is important to address all relevant codes to ensure the proper functioning of the safety systems.