AutoCodes – GMC – B0071 GMC

B0071 GMC Code - Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit

Quick Answer

The seat belt tension sensor is a sensor mounted on the passenger seat belt retractor and provides input to the Passenger Presence Module. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seat Belt Retractor (Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor), Passenger Seat Belt Retractor harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seat Belt Retractor 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: B0071 GMC indicates Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger Seat Belt Retractor (Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor), Passenger Seat Belt Retractor harness is open or shorted, Passenger Seat Belt Retractor 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 6,783

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 17, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0071 GMC Description

The seat belt tension sensor is a sensor mounted on the passenger seat belt retractor and provides input to the Passenger Presence Module. When an infant car seat is properly restrained on the front passenger seat, the seat belt is tightly secured through the car seat. The seat belt pulls on the tension sensor and changes the voltage signal to the Passenger Presence Module. The Passenger Presence Module monitors the belt tension sensor signal circuit and if a fault is detected, the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set. When the Passenger Presence Module detects this DTC, it will send out a serial data message, and the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will notify the customer of the enable/disable status by illuminating the OFF indicator on the PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators. The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will then suppress the deployment of the passenger instrument panel air bag and illuminate the AIR BAG indicator.

OBDII Code B0071 GMC - Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B0071 GMC Code - Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0071 GMC?

Faulty Passenger Seat Belt Retractor (Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor)
Passenger Seat Belt Retractor harness is open or shorted
Passenger Seat Belt Retractor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Passenger Presence Module

How to Fix the DTC B0071 GMC?

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

B0071:03 Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit Voltage Below Threshold
B0071:04 Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit Open
B0071:07 Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit Voltage Above Threshold
B0071:08 Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit Voltage Performance Signal Invalid

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0071 GMC 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 B0071 GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0071 GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0071 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific GMC Models

B0071 2014 GMC Sierra — Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit
B0071 2015 GMC Sierra — Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit
B0071 2016 GMC Sierra — Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit
B0071 2017 GMC Sierra — Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit
B0071 2018 GMC Sierra — Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit

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 B0071 GMC Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0071 GMC related to the Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard, the passenger airbag being disabled, and potential issues with the seat belt tension system.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0071 GMC?

Possible causes of this code include a faulty passenger seat belt tension sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunction in the airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0071 GMC for the Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit?

Diagnosis typically involves using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the seat belt tension sensor and related wiring for damage, and testing the sensor's resistance and voltage.

4. Can I continue to drive my vehicle with OBDII code B0071 GMC triggered?

It is not recommended to drive with this code active as it may affect the proper functioning of the passenger airbag system, potentially compromising safety in the event of a collision.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B0071 GMC related to the Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit?

Repair options may include replacing the faulty passenger seat belt tension sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, resetting the airbag control module, or seeking professional assistance for a comprehensive fix.

6. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code B0071 GMC at home?

While basic inspections like checking for loose connections or damaged wiring can be done at home, diagnosing and repairing this code may require specialized tools and expertise, so it's advisable to consult a professional.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code B0071 GMC without fixing the underlying issue?

Simply resetting the code without addressing the root cause, such as a faulty sensor or wiring problem, is not recommended as the issue will likely persist and trigger the code again.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0071 GMC for the Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, the parts needed for replacement, and labor charges. It's best to consult with a mechanic for an accurate estimate.

9. Can extreme temperatures or humidity affect the triggering of OBDII code B0071 GMC?

Extreme temperatures or humidity levels can potentially impact the sensors and wiring in the seat belt tension system, leading to false triggers of this OBDII code. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent such issues.

10. Is it necessary to have the OBDII code B0071 GMC cleared after repairing the Passenger Seat Belt Tension Sensor Circuit issue?

After repairing the underlying problem causing the code, it's recommended to have the code cleared using an OBDII scanner to ensure the issue has been resolved and to reset the system for accurate monitoring of future faults.