AutoCodes – Generic – B0016

B0016 Code - Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1

Quick Answer

During a side or 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 an inflatable restraint module. Common causes include Faulty Left Roof Rail Module, Left Roof Rail Module harness is open or shorted, Left Roof Rail 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: B0016 indicates Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Left Roof Rail Module, Left Roof Rail Module harness is open or shorted, Left Roof Rail 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 12,597

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 B0016 Description

During a side or 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 an inflatable restraint module. There are 2 shorting bars used within the module connector which will short together both high and low circuits, when the connector is disconnected. This will help to prevent unwanted deployment of the inflator module during servicing.

OBDII Code B0016 - Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1 - AutoCodes.com — B0016 Code - Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0016?

Faulty Left Roof Rail Module
Left Roof Rail Module harness is open or shorted
Left Roof Rail Module circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0016?

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

B0016:01 Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1 Short to Battery
B0016:02 Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1 Short to Ground
B0016:04 Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1 Open
B0016:0D Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1 High Resistance
B0016:0E Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1 Low Resistance

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0016 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 B0016 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0016 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0016 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B0016 Buick — Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1
B0016 Cadillac — Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1
B0016 Chevrolet — Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1
B0016 GMC — Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1
B0016 Pontiac — Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1
B0016 Saturn — Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1

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 B0016 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0016 (Left Roof Rail Deployment Loop Stage 1)?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential issues with the left roof airbag deployment system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0016?

Possible causes of code B0016 may include a faulty left roof airbag deployment loop, a malfunctioning airbag control module, wiring issues, or a poor connection in the airbag system.

3. How serious is OBDII code B0016?

Code B0016 indicates a problem with the left roof airbag deployment loop stage 1, which is a critical safety feature. It is important to address this issue promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the airbag system in the event of a collision.

4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code B0016 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an active B0016 code, as it indicates a potential issue with the left roof airbag deployment system. Driving with a malfunctioning airbag system can compromise your safety in the event of an accident.

5. How can I diagnose and repair OBDII code B0016?

Diagnosing and repairing code B0016 typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific fault codes, inspecting the left roof airbag deployment loop and related components for damage or defects, and addressing any identified issues through repairs or replacements.

6. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code B0016 without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the B0016 code without addressing the root cause is not recommended, as the problem will likely persist and potentially compromise the functionality of the left roof airbag deployment system.

7. Are there any DIY repair tips for OBDII code B0016?

DIY repair for code B0016 may be challenging due to the safety-critical nature of the airbag system. It is advisable to consult a professional mechanic or authorized service center for proper diagnosis and repair of the issue.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0016?

The cost of repairing OBDII code B0016 can vary depending on the underlying cause of the issue, the extent of the damage, and labor costs. It is recommended to obtain estimates from reputable auto repair shops or dealerships.

9. Can extreme weather conditions trigger OBDII code B0016?

Extreme weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, can potentially impact the functioning of the airbag system and trigger fault codes like B0016. It is essential to ensure that the vehicle is properly maintained to prevent weather-related issues.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code B0016 from occurring in the future?

Regular maintenance and inspections of the airbag system, including the left roof airbag deployment loop, can help prevent issues like code B0016. Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule and addressing any warning lights promptly can aid in preventing future occurrences.