AutoCodes – Generic – B0038

B0038 Code - Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control

Quick Answer

When the ignition switch is turned to RUN position, Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) performs tests to diagnose critical internal malfunctions. Common causes include Faulty Second Row Right Frontal Air Bag, Second Row Right Frontal Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Second Row Right Frontal 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: B0038 indicates Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Second Row Right Frontal Air Bag, Second Row Right Frontal Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Second Row Right Frontal 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 13,873

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 Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code B0038 Description

When the ignition switch is turned to RUN position, Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) performs tests to diagnose critical internal malfunctions. SDM then performs deployment loop voltage out of range test and deployment loop resistance measurement test. If voltage out of range test detects a short to voltage condition, the resistance measurement test will not be performed.

OBDII Code B0038 - Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control - AutoCodes.com — B0038 Code - Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0038?

Faulty Second Row Right Frontal Air Bag
Second Row Right Frontal Air Bag harness is open or shorted
Second Row Right Frontal Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0038?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0038 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 B0038 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0038 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0038 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B0038 Buick — Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control
B0038 Cadillac — Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control
B0038 Chevrolet — Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control
B0038 GMC — Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control

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.