AutoCodes – GMC – B0012 2016 GMC Sierra

B0012 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1

Quick Answer

During a frontal crash of sufficient force, the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will allow current to flow through the deployment loop in order to deploy the steering wheel air bag. Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag, Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag Coil, Steering Wheel Air Bag harness is open or shorted. 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: B0012 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag, Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag Coil, Steering Wheel Air Bag harness is open or shorted.
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 390

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 Oct 05, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0012 2016 GMC Sierra Description

During a frontal crash of sufficient force, the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will allow current to flow through the deployment loop in order to deploy the steering wheel air bag. The SDM performs continuous diagnostic tests on the deployment loops to check for proper circuit continuity and for shorts to ground or voltage. There are two shorting bars used within the steering wheel air bag coil connector which will short together both steering wheel air bag stage 1 high control circuit and steering wheel air bag stage 1 low control circuit and both steering wheel air bag stage 2 high control circuit and steering wheel air bag stage 2 low control circuit when the connector is disconnected. This will help to prevent unwanted deployment of the steering wheel air bag during servicing.

OBDII Code B0012 2016 GMC Sierra - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1 - AutoCodes.com — B0012 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0012 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag
Faulty Steering Wheel Air Bag Coil
Steering Wheel Air Bag harness is open or shorted
Steering Wheel Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0012 2016 GMC Sierra?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B0012:01 Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 1 Short to Battery
B0012:02 Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 1 Short to Ground
B0012:04 Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 1 Open Circuit
B0012:0D Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 1 High Resistance
B0012:0E Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 1 Low Resistance

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0012 2016 GMC Sierra 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 B0012 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0012 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0012 2016 GMC Sierra 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 B0012 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does OBDII code B0012 for a 2016 GMC Sierra indicate?

The code B0012 specifically refers to the Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stageâ€‰1 issue in a 2016 GMC Sierra.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0012 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and a potential non-deployment of the driver's steering wheel airbag during a collision.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0012 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty wiring harness, a malfunctioning clock spring in the steering wheel, or a problem with the airbag control module.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0012 issue in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific error code, followed by a thorough inspection of the airbag system components such as the wiring, clock spring, and control module.

5. Can I still drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the OBDII code B0012 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an active airbag fault code as it may compromise the safety of the driver in the event of a collision. It is advised to have the issue diagnosed and repaired promptly.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code B0012 in a 2016 GMC Sierra without fixing the underlying problem?

While you can clear the code temporarily, it will likely reappear until the root cause of the issue is addressed and resolved.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code B0012 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate diagnosis and cost estimate.

8. Can I fix the OBDII code B0012 issue in my 2016 GMC Sierra myself?

Repairing airbag-related issues can be complex and potentially dangerous if not done correctly. It is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician to ensure the problem is addressed safely and effectively.

9. Are there any safety precautions I should take if the OBDII code B0012 is present in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

If the airbag warning light is on, it is crucial to drive with caution and be aware that the airbag system may not deploy properly in the event of an accident. Promptly addressing the issue is essential for your safety.

10. How long does it typically take to repair the OBDII code B0012 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the problem and the availability of parts. It is best to consult with a professional technician for an accurate estimate of the repair duration.