B0138 Code - Short To Battery Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit
Quick Answer
The left seat belt pretensioner squib circuit consists of the air bag center sensor and right seat belt pretensioner. Common causes include Faulty Left Seat Belt Pretensioner, Left Seat Belt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted, Left Seat Belt Pretensioner 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
- B0138 indicates Short To Battery Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Left Seat Belt Pretensioner, Left Seat Belt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted, Left Seat Belt Pretensioner 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 B0138 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0138?
- Faulty Left Seat Belt Pretensioner
- Left Seat Belt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted
- Left Seat Belt Pretensioner circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Air Bag Control Module
How to Fix the DTC B0138?
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 B0138 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 B0138 code?
Need more information on how to fix the B0138 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the B0138 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- B0138 Lexus — Short To Battery Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit
- B0138 Scion — Short To Battery Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit
- B0138 Toyota — Short To Battery Left Seat Belt Pretensioner 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about B0138 Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0138?
- The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, the seat belt pretensioner system not functioning properly, and potential issues with the left seat belt operation.
2. What does the OBDII code B0138 "Short To Battery Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit" mean?
- This code indicates a short circuit to the battery in the left seat belt pretensioner squib circuit, which is a component of the safety system responsible for tightening the seat belt in the event of a collision.
3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0138?
- The code can be triggered by damaged wiring or connectors in the seat belt pretensioner circuit, a faulty seat belt pretensioner squib, or issues with the airbag control module.
4. How can I diagnose the source of OBDII code B0138?
- To diagnose the issue, it is recommended to perform a thorough visual inspection of the wiring and connectors in the left seat belt pretensioner circuit, check for any visible damage, and use a multimeter to test for continuity and shorts.
5. Can I continue to drive my vehicle with OBDII code B0138?
- It is not advisable to continue driving the vehicle with this code present, as it indicates a potential safety issue with the seat belt pretensioner system, which could affect the proper operation of the safety restraints in the event of a collision.
6. How can I repair OBDII code B0138?
- The repair process typically involves repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors in the left seat belt pretensioner circuit, replacing a faulty seat belt pretensioner squib, or addressing any issues with the airbag control module.
7. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code B0138 without addressing the underlying issue?
- It is not recommended to simply reset the code without addressing the underlying problem, as it could compromise the safety of the seat belt pretensioner system and potentially put you at risk in the event of an accident.
8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B0138 at home?
- While some individuals with experience in automotive repair may be able to address the issue at home, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic to ensure the proper diagnosis and repair of the seat belt pretensioner circuit.
9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0138 at a repair shop?
- The cost of repairing OBDII code B0138 can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific components that need to be replaced, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars at a repair shop.
10. Can OBDII code B0138 be prevented in the future?
- While some causes of the code may be unavoidable, regular maintenance and inspections of the seat belt pretensioner system, as well as prompt attention to any warning lights or unusual symptoms, can help prevent issues that trigger OBDII code B0138.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B0138 OBDII Code
Code B0138 comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
