B0091:3A Code - Center Front 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 Center Front Impact Sensor, Center Front Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted, Center Front 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
- B0091:3A indicates Center Front Impact Sensor Incorrect Component Installed.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Center Front Impact Sensor, Center Front Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted, Center Front 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.
Code B0091:3A Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0091:3A?
- Faulty Center Front Impact Sensor
- Center Front Impact Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Center Front Impact Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)
How to Fix the DTC B0091:3A?
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
B0091:02 Center Front Impact Sensor Short to Ground
B0091:05 Center Front Impact Sensor Short to Battery or Open
B0091:0F Center Front Impact Sensor Erratic
B0091:39 Center Front Impact Sensor Internal Electronic Failure
B0091:3A Center Front Impact Sensor Incorrect Component Installed
B0091:71 Center Front Impact Sensor Invalid Serial Data Received
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the B0091:3A 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.
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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.
Frequently Asked Questions about B0091:3A Code
1. What does the OBDII code B0091:3A mean?
This code indicates that the center front impact sensor has been replaced with an incorrect or incompatible component.
2. What are the symptoms of a B0091:3A code?
Common symptoms include an illuminated airbag warning light, potential deactivation of the airbag system, and possible fault messages on the dashboard.
3. What causes the B0091:3A code to appear?
The code is triggered when the vehicle’s control module detects a mismatch or incompatibility with the installed center front impact sensor, often due to using the wrong part.
4. Can driving with a B0091:3A code be dangerous?
Yes, because this fault may impair the functionality of the airbag system, which is critical for passenger safety in the event of a collision.
5. How is the B0091:3A code diagnosed?
A technician will inspect the center front impact sensor, confirm its part number and compatibility, and use a scan tool to verify the specific fault data.
6. How can I fix the B0091:3A code?
Replace the incorrect sensor with a manufacturer-approved part that matches the vehicle’s specifications, then clear the code with a scan tool.
7. What should I check before replacing the sensor for B0091:3A?
Ensure the replacement sensor is compatible with your vehicle’s make, model, and year, and verify the part number with the manufacturer’s specifications.
8. Can a B0091:3A code be caused by wiring issues?
While uncommon, damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion in the sensor’s circuit can sometimes cause compatibility errors and should be inspected.
9. Will clearing the B0091:3A code fix the issue?
Clearing the code without addressing the incorrect component will not resolve the issue and the code will likely return.
10. Do I need to recalibrate the system after fixing the B0091:3A code?
Yes, after replacing the sensor, the airbag system may need to be recalibrated using a diagnostic tool to ensure proper functionality.
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