AutoCodes – Cadillac – B0078 Cadillac

B0078 Cadillac Code - Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance

Quick Answer

The Inflatable Restraint Side Impact Sensor (SIS) utilizes a unidirectional 2-wire circuit. Common causes include Faulty Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS), Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) harness is open or shorted, Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) 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: B0078 Cadillac indicates Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS), Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) harness is open or shorted, Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) 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 1,568

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
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0078 Cadillac Description

The Inflatable Restraint Side Impact Sensor (SIS) utilizes a unidirectional 2-wire circuit. The SIS modulates current on the interface to send ID, State of Health, and deployment commands to the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). The SDM serves as a power source and a ground for the SIS. When the ignition is turned on and input power from the SDM is first detected, the SIS responds by performing internal diagnostics and sending an ID to the SDM. The SDM considers the ID to be valid if the response time is less than 5 seconds. The SIS continually communicates status messages to the SDM, which determines if a fault is present in the SIS circuit. When a fault is detected, the SDM resets the SIS twice by removing and reapplying power. If the fault is still present, the SDM will set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code B0078 Cadillac - Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance - AutoCodes.com — B0078 Cadillac Code - Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0078 Cadillac?

Faulty Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS)
Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) harness is open or shorted
Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor (SIS) circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0078 Cadillac?

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 B0078 Cadillac 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 B0078 Cadillac code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0078 Cadillac code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0078 Cadillac code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 B0078 Cadillac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0078 Cadillac related to the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor?

- The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential issues with the airbag system's deployment.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0078 Cadillac indicating Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance issues?

- The code can be triggered by a malfunction in the right front/passenger side impact sensor, wiring issues, or a problem with the airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the source of OBDII code B0078 Cadillac for the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor?

- To diagnose the issue, a professional diagnostic scan tool is needed to read the code, inspect the impact sensor and its wiring, and test the airbag system components.

4. Can driving with OBDII code B0078 Cadillac present any risks?

- Driving with this code may compromise the proper functioning of the airbag system, potentially increasing the risk of injury in the event of a collision.

5. Are there any DIY repair tips for resolving OBDII code B0078 Cadillac related to the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor?

- DIY repair is not recommended for this issue due to the safety implications associated with the airbag system. It's best to have a qualified mechanic address the problem.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0078 Cadillac for the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve sensor replacement, wiring repairs, or airbag control module reprogramming, potentially ranging from $200 to $800.

7. Can resetting the OBDII code B0078 Cadillac clear the issue with the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor?

- Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying problem causing the code to trigger. Professional diagnosis and repair are necessary.

8. How urgent is it to address OBDII code B0078 Cadillac for the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor?

- It is crucial to address this code promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the airbag system in the event of a collision. Delaying repairs can compromise safety.

9. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code B0078 Cadillac and the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor?

- It's recommended to check with a Cadillac dealership or online databases for any relevant recalls or technical service bulletins addressing this specific OBDII code and sensor issue.

10. What steps should I take if OBDII code B0078 Cadillac persists after repairs have been made to the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor?

- If the code persists after repairs, further diagnostic testing may be needed to identify any underlying issues that were not initially addressed. Consulting with a professional is advised.