AutoCodesGeneric – B0117

B0117 Code - Short To Ground In Left-Side Air Bag Module Squib Circuit

Quick Answer

The side air bag module squib circuit consists of the air bag sensor assembly and side air bag module. Common causes include Faulty Left-Side Air Bag Module, Left-Side Air Bag Module harness is open or shorted, Left-Side Air Bag Module 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
B0117 indicates Short To Ground In Left-Side Air Bag Module Squib Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Left-Side Air Bag Module, Left-Side Air Bag Module harness is open or shorted, Left-Side Air Bag Module 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 2,956
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code B0117 Description

The side air bag module squib circuit consists of the air bag sensor assembly and side air bag module. The squib circuit causes the side air bag to deploy when deployment conditions are satisfied. The Air Bag Control Module monitors the Left-Side Air Bag Module. The Air Bag Control Module sets the OBDII code when the Left-Side Air Bag Module is not to factory specifications.
OBDII Code B0117 - Short To Ground In Left-Side Air Bag Module Squib Circuit - AutoCodes.com
B0117 Code - Short To Ground In Left-Side Air Bag Module Squib Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0117?

  • Faulty Left-Side Air Bag Module
  • Left-Side Air Bag Module harness is open or shorted
  • Left-Side Air Bag Module circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Air Bag Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B0117?

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 B0117 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 B0117 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0117 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0117 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

  • B0117 Lexus — Short To Ground In Left-Side Air Bag Module Squib Circuit
  • B0117 Scion — Short To Ground In Left-Side Air Bag Module Squib Circuit
  • B0117 Toyota — Short To Ground In Left-Side Air Bag Module Squib Circuit

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 B0117 Code

1. What does the OBDII code B0117 mean?

B0117 indicates a short to ground in the left-side airbag module squib circuit, which disrupts proper airbag deployment.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B0117?

Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating and the airbag system being disabled.

3. What causes code B0117 to appear?

This code is typically caused by damaged wiring, a short to ground in the squib circuit, a faulty airbag module, or a bad clock spring.

4. Is it safe to drive with the B0117 code active?

No, it is not safe because the airbag system may not function properly in the event of an accident.

5. How can I diagnose the B0117 code?

You can diagnose it by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the airbag module circuit, and using a scan tool to confirm the fault.

6. What tools are needed to fix the B0117 code?

You’ll need a multimeter, an OBDII scan tool, and possibly a service manual for your specific vehicle.

7. Can a faulty clock spring cause the B0117 code?

Yes, a faulty clock spring can cause a short in the squib circuit, leading to this error code.

8. How do I repair the B0117 code?

Repairs may involve replacing damaged wiring, fixing connectors, replacing the clock spring, or replacing the airbag module.

9. Will clearing the code fix the problem?

No, simply clearing the code will not fix the underlying issue; the short to ground must be repaired.

10. Should a professional handle repairs for the B0117 code?

Yes, airbag systems are safety-critical and require specialized knowledge to repair safely, so professional assistance is recommended.

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