AutoCodesChevrolet – B0012 Chevrolet

B0012 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 38,026
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 05, 2022
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code B0012 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1 - AutoCodes.com
B0012 Chevrolet Code - Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0012 Chevrolet?

  • 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 Chevrolet?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0012 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0012 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

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 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0012 in a Chevrolet related to the Driver Steering Wheel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 1?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and a potential message indicating an issue with the airbag system.

2. What could be the possible causes of OBDII code B0012 in a Chevrolet?

Possible causes of this code include a faulty steering wheel airbag deployment loop, damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, or a malfunctioning airbag control module.

3. How serious is OBDII code B0012 in a Chevrolet?

This code indicates a problem with the driver's steering wheel airbag deployment loop, which is a critical safety feature. It is important to address this issue promptly to ensure the airbag system functions correctly in the event of a collision.

4. Can I continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code B0012 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code active, as it indicates a potential issue with the driver's airbag system. Continuing to drive the vehicle with a faulty airbag system can compromise passenger safety in the event of a collision.

5. How can I diagnose OBDII code B0012 in my Chevrolet?

Diagnosing this code typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific fault codes, inspecting the wiring and connectors in the airbag system, and testing the components for proper functionality.

6. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code B0012 in a Chevrolet?

Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, replacing the faulty driver steering wheel airbag deployment loop, or resetting the airbag control module after resolving the issue.

7. Is it safe to attempt DIY repairs for OBDII code B0012 in a Chevrolet?

Due to the critical nature of the airbag system, it is recommended to seek professional assistance for diagnosing and repairing OBDII code B0012 to ensure the safety features of the vehicle are properly restored.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0012 in a Chevrolet?

The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, the extent of the required repairs, and the labor rates of the service provider. It is advisable to obtain a few quotes from reputable automotive shops for an accurate estimate.

9. Can OBDII code B0012 in a Chevrolet be intermittent?

Yes, intermittent issues with the driver steering wheel airbag deployment loop can sometimes trigger the OBDII code B0012. It is important to address intermittent faults promptly to ensure the airbag system's reliability.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code B0012 from recurring in my Chevrolet?

Regular maintenance and inspection of the airbag system, prompt repair of any detected issues, and cautious handling of the steering wheel and airbag components can help prevent the recurrence of OBDII code B0012 in your Chevrolet.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B0012 Chevrolet OBDII Code

Code B0012 Chevrolet comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play