AutoCodes – Saturn – B0104 Saturn

B0104 Saturn Code - Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay Message

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: B0104 Saturn indicates Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay Message.
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 1,376

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 Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0104 Saturn 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 B0104 Saturn - Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay Message - AutoCodes.com — B0104 Saturn Code - Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay Message

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0104 Saturn?

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 B0104 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0104 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 B0104 Saturn code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0104 Saturn code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0104 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 B0104 Saturn Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0104 Saturn (Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay Message)?

- The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and a message indicating "Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay."

2. What does the OBDII code B0104 Saturn indicate?

- This code indicates a problem with the passenger-side airbag system, specifically the Electronic Front Sensor (EFS).

3. What are some possible causes of the Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay message in a Saturn vehicle?

- Possible causes include a faulty Electronic Front Sensor (EFS), damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, or a problem with the airbag control module.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of the B0104 OBDII code in my Saturn vehicle?

- Diagnosing the issue may require using a scan tool to retrieve the specific trouble code, inspecting the wiring and connectors in the airbag system, and testing the Electronic Front Sensor (EFS) for proper functionality.

5. Can I repair the Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay message in my Saturn at home?

- While simple fixes like checking and reconnecting loose wiring may be possible at home, diagnosing and repairing more complex issues related to the airbag system may require professional help to ensure safety and proper functionality.

6. Is it safe to drive my Saturn with the B0104 OBDII code present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the airbag warning light on and the Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay message displayed, as it indicates a potential issue with the passenger-side airbag system, which could affect occupant safety in the event of a collision.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the B0104 OBDII code in a Saturn vehicle?

- The cost of repairing the B0104 code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. Costs may include parts replacement, labor charges, and diagnostic fees, so it's best to consult a professional for an accurate estimate.

8. Can resetting the OBDII code B0104 in my Saturn make the problem go away?

- Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing the Passenger-Side EFS Not Okay message. It's important to diagnose and address the root cause of the problem to ensure proper airbag system function.

9. Are there any recalls or service bulletins related to the B0104 OBDII code in Saturn vehicles?

- It's recommended to check with a Saturn dealership or online resources for any recalls or service bulletins related to the B0104 code to see if your vehicle may be eligible for free repairs or assistance.

10. How can I prevent the B0104 OBDII code from occurring in my Saturn in the future?

- Regular maintenance and inspections of the airbag system, including checking wiring connections and sensors, can help prevent issues like the B0104 code from occurring. If you notice any warning signs, address them promptly to avoid more significant problems.