AutoCodesGMC – B0021 2016 GMC Sierra

B0021 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop

Quick Answer

A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be stored in non-volatile memory if a malfunction is detected. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seat Side Air Bag, Passenger Seat Side Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seat Side Air Bag 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
B0021 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seat Side Air Bag, Passenger Seat Side Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seat Side Air Bag 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 337
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 09, 2022
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Code B0021 2016 GMC Sierra Description

A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be stored in non-volatile memory if a malfunction is detected. 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 the passenger seat side 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. A shorting bar is used within the passenger seat side air bag connector which will short together both high and low circuits when the connector is disconnected. This will help to prevent unwanted deployment of the air bag during servicing.
OBDII Code B0021 2016 GMC Sierra - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop - AutoCodes.com
B0021 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0021 2016 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Passenger Seat Side Air Bag
  • Passenger Seat Side Air Bag harness is open or shorted
  • Passenger Seat Side Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0021 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0021 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 B0021 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0021 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0021 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 B0021 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does OBDII code B0021 for a 2016 GMC Sierra indicate?

The B0021 code specifically refers to a fault in the Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0021 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the airbag warning light on the dashboard staying illuminated and potential non-deployment of the passenger side airbag during a collision.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0021 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The code may be triggered by issues such as a faulty airbag deployment loop, damaged wiring, loose connections, or a problem with the airbag control module.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B0021 in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosing the issue typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific fault codes, conducting a visual inspection of the airbag system components, and testing the wiring and connections for continuity.

5. Can I still drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with OBDII code B0021?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the airbag warning light illuminated, as it indicates a potential safety risk in case of an accident.

6. How can I repair OBDII code B0021 in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairing the issue may involve replacing the faulty deployment loop, repairing damaged wiring, securing loose connections, or resetting the airbag control module after the problem has been fixed.

7. Are there any safety concerns associated with OBDII code B0021 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Yes, unresolved airbag system issues can compromise passenger safety in the event of a collision, as the airbag may not deploy as intended.

8. Can I reset the OBDII code B0021 in my 2016 GMC Sierra without repairing the issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the underlying problem will likely result in the code reappearing once the system detects the fault again.

9. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code B0021 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost of fixing the B0021 code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may involve parts and labor expenses for diagnosis, repair, and potential component replacements.

10. Can I prevent OBDII code B0021 from recurring in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Regular maintenance checks, prompt repairs of any airbag system issues, and careful handling of the vehicle can help prevent the recurrence of the B0021 code.

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