AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B0021 Chevrolet

B0021 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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 35,575

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 09, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0021 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop - AutoCodes.com — B0021 Chevrolet Code - Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0021 Chevrolet?

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 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.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B0021:01 Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Short to Battery
B0021:02 Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Short to Ground
B0021:04 Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Open
B0021:0D Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop High Resistance
B0021:0E Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop Low Resistance

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0021 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 B0021 Chevrolet code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0021 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

B0021 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop
B0021 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop
B0021 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop
B0021 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop
B0021 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Passenger Seat Side Air Bag Deployment Loop

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 Chevrolet Code

1. What is OBDII code B0021 for a Chevrolet passenger seat side airbag deployment loop?

This code indicates a problem with the passenger seat side airbag deployment loop circuit.

2. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0021 in a Chevrolet?

Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and a potential loss of functionality in the passenger seat side airbag.

3. What are possible causes of OBDII code B0021 in a Chevrolet?

Causes may include a faulty passenger seat side airbag deployment loop, damaged wiring or connectors, or a problem with the airbag control module.

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code B0021 in my Chevrolet?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to read the fault codes, inspecting the wiring and connectors related to the passenger seat side airbag, and performing circuit tests as outlined in the service manual.

5. Can I drive my Chevrolet with OBDII code B0021 present?

It is not recommended to drive with an active airbag fault code, as the passenger seat side airbag may not deploy in the event of a collision.

6. How can I repair OBDII code B0021 in my Chevrolet?

Repair options may include replacing the passenger seat side airbag deployment loop, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the airbag control module.

7. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code B0021 in my Chevrolet without fixing the issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the underlying problem is not recommended, as it may lead to safety issues in the event of an accident.

8. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code B0021 in a Chevrolet?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, the labor rates in your area, and whether any parts need to be replaced.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B0021 in a Chevrolet?

DIY repair may be possible for those with the necessary tools, knowledge, and experience working on automotive electrical systems. However, it is recommended to consult a professional if unsure.

10. How often does OBDII code B0021 occur in Chevrolet vehicles?

While the frequency of this specific code can vary, issues related to the passenger seat side airbag deployment loop are relatively common in Chevrolet vehicles equipped with this safety feature.