AutoCodes – Generic – B0043

B0043 Code - Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage Out of Range

Quick Answer

The driver deployment loop consists of the following components: - A dual-stage inflatable restraint steering wheel module - The inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil - The steering wheel module high circuits for both stages 1 and 2 - The steering wheel module low circuits for both stages 1 and 2 There are 2 shorting bars used within the steering wheel module coil connector. Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Module Coil, Steering Wheel Module Coil harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel Module Coil 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: B0043 indicates Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage Out of Range.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Module Coil, Steering Wheel Module Coil harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel Module Coil 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 4,818

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 Mar 10, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0043 Description

The driver deployment loop consists of the following components:
- A dual-stage inflatable restraint steering wheel module
- The inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil
- The steering wheel module high circuits for both stages 1 and 2
- The steering wheel module low circuits for both stages 1 and 2
There are 2 shorting bars used within the steering wheel module coil connector. These shorting bars short together both stages of the steering wheel module high circuit and the steering wheel module low circuit when the connector is disconnected. This helps prevent unwanted deployment of the inflator module during servicing. During a frontal crash of sufficient force the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will allow current to flow through the deployment loop. This flow of current will deploy the steering wheel module. The SDM performs continuous diagnostic tests on the deployment loops to check for proper circuit continuity and for shorts to ground or voltage. If a malfunction is detected, a DTC will be stored in memory.

OBDII Code B0043 - Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage Out of Range - AutoCodes.com — B0043 Code - Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage Out of Range

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0043?

Faulty Steering Wheel Module Coil
Steering Wheel Module Coil harness is open or shorted
Steering Wheel Module Coil circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Steering Wheel Module

How to Fix the DTC B0043?

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 B0043 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 B0043 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0043 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0043 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B0043 Buick — Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage Out of Range
B0043 Cadillac — Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage Out of Range
B0043 Chevrolet — Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage Out of Range
B0043 GMC — Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage Out of Range

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 B0043 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0043?

- Common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential issues with the driver frontal airbag deployment system.

2. What does the OBDII code B0043 indicate?

- OBDII code B0043 indicates that the Driver Frontal Deployment Loop Stage 2 Voltage is out of range, suggesting a potential problem with the airbag system.

3. What are possible causes of OBDII code B0043?

- Possible causes of B0043 can include faulty wiring, a malfunctioning airbag control module, a defective clock spring, or issues with the airbag deployment loop.

4. How can I diagnose the source of OBDII code B0043?

- To diagnose B0043, a professional diagnostic scan tool is typically required to read the fault codes stored in the airbag system and identify the specific issue causing the voltage out of range.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code B0043 present?

- It is not recommended to drive with OBDII code B0043 present, as it indicates a potential problem with the driver frontal airbag system, which may affect its functionality in the event of a collision.

6. How can OBDII code B0043 be repaired?

- Repairing B0043 may involve inspecting and repairing or replacing damaged wiring, resetting the airbag system, reprogramming the airbag control module, or replacing faulty components such as the clock spring.

7. Can I reset OBDII code B0043 myself?

- While you may be able to clear the fault code temporarily by disconnecting the car battery, it is recommended to have a professional diagnose and repair the underlying issue to prevent the code from reoccurring.

8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code B0043?

- The cost to fix OBDII code B0043 can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, the extent of repairs needed, and labor costs. It is advisable to obtain quotes from reputable auto repair shops.

9. Are there any safety concerns associated with OBDII code B0043?

- Yes, there are safety concerns associated with B0043, as it pertains to the functionality of the driver frontal airbag system, which is crucial for occupant protection in the event of a collision.

10. Can I prevent OBDII code B0043 from appearing in the future?

- Regular maintenance and inspections of the airbag system, prompt attention to any airbag warning lights, and addressing any issues related to the airbag system promptly can help prevent the recurrence of OBDII code B0043.