AutoCodes – Generic – B0053

B0053 Code - Deployment Commanded

Quick Answer

The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) contains sensing devices that converts vehicle velocity changes to electrical signals. Common causes include Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM), Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) harness is open or shorted, Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) 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: B0053 indicates Deployment Commanded.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM), Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) harness is open or shorted, Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) 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 5,074

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 B0053 Description

The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) contains sensing devices that converts vehicle velocity changes to electrical signals. The SDM processes the generated electrical signals and compares them to values stored in memory. When the generated signals exceed the stored values, the SDM performs additional signal processing and compares the generated signals to signals stored in memory. When 2 of the generated signals exceed the stored values, the SDM will cause current to flow through the inflator modules, deploying the inflator modules, and causing DTC B0053 to set.

OBDII Code B0053 - Deployment Commanded - AutoCodes.com — B0053 Code - Deployment Commanded

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0053?

Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)
Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) harness is open or shorted
Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B0053?

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 B0053 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 B0053 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0053 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0053 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B0053 Buick — Deployment Commanded
B0053 Cadillac — Deployment Commanded
B0053 Chevrolet — Deployment Commanded
B0053 GMC — Deployment Commanded

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.