AutoCodes – Buick – B0103 Buick

B0103 Buick Code - Passenger-Side EFS Valid Identification Not Received

Quick Answer

Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS), also known as a front end sensor, uses a unidirectional 2-wire circuit. Common causes include Faulty Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS), Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS) harness is open or shorted, Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS) 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: B0103 Buick indicates Passenger-Side EFS Valid Identification Not Received.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS), Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS) harness is open or shorted, Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS) 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 1,972

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0103 Buick Description

Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS), also known as a front end sensor, uses a unidirectional 2-wire circuit. EFS sensor modulates current on the interface to send identification, State Of Health (SOH) and deployment commands to Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). The SDM serves as a power source and ground for EFS. When ignition is turned on and EFS detects power from SDM, EFS responds by performing internal diagnostics and sending identification to SDM. SDM considers identification message to be valid if received within 5 seconds of EFS powering up. EFS continually communicates a status message to SDM. When fault is detected, SDM will attempt to reset EFS twice by removing and applying power. If fault is still present, SDM will set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code B0103 Buick - Passenger-Side EFS Valid Identification Not Received - AutoCodes.com — B0103 Buick Code - Passenger-Side EFS Valid Identification Not Received

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0103 Buick?

Faulty Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS)
Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS) harness is open or shorted
Passenger-Side Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS) circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0103 Buick?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0103 Buick 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 B0103 Buick code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0103 Buick code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0103 Buick 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 B0103 Buick Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0103 in a Buick related to the Passenger-Side EFS Valid Identification Not Received?

- The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential non-deployment of the passenger-side airbag during a collision.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0103 in a Buick?

- The code B0103 in a Buick is typically caused by a malfunction in the passenger-side electronic front sensor (EFS) module or a communication issue between the EFS module and the airbag control system.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0103 in my Buick?

- Diagnosis of the code B0103 involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the passenger-side EFS module for damage or loose connections, and testing the communication between the EFS module and the airbag control system.

4. Is it safe to drive my Buick with the OBDII code B0103 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the OBDII code B0103 active, as it indicates a potential issue with the passenger-side airbag system, which could compromise occupant safety in the event of a collision.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B0103 in a Buick related to the Passenger-Side EFS Valid Identification Not Received?

- Repairing the code B0103 may involve replacing the faulty passenger-side EFS module, repairing any damaged wiring or connections, and resetting the airbag system to clear the fault code.

6. Are there any DIY tips for addressing the OBDII code B0103 in my Buick?

- DIY tips for addressing the code B0103 include checking and securing the connections to the passenger-side EFS module, ensuring the module is properly seated, and following the manufacturer's repair procedures.

7. Can resetting the airbag system clear the OBDII code B0103 in a Buick?

- Resetting the airbag system may clear the OBDII code B0103 temporarily, but if the underlying issue with the passenger-side EFS module or communication persists, the code is likely to return.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0103 in a Buick at a dealership or repair shop?

- The cost of repairing the OBDII code B0103 in a Buick can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from $200 to $500 for parts and labor at a dealership or repair shop.

9. Can OBDII code B0103 in a Buick be related to other airbag system faults?

- Yes, the OBDII code B0103 in a Buick may be related to other airbag system faults, such as issues with the passenger-side airbag deployment system or the airbag control module.

10. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code B0103 in Buick vehicles?

- It is recommended to check with the Buick dealership or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to the OBDII code B0103 in Buick vehicles.