AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B0078 Chevrolet

B0078 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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 6,378

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0078 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet 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.

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

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Get the B0078 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0078 in a Chevrolet indicating Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance issue?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard and a potential message indicating a problem with the right front/passenger side impact sensor.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B0078 in a Chevrolet related to the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance?

Possible causes include a faulty right front/passenger side impact sensor, damaged wiring or connectors leading to the sensor, or a problem with the airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code B0078 in my Chevrolet?

Diagnosing the issue involves using a diagnostic scanner to read the code, followed by inspecting the right front/passenger side impact sensor, its wiring, and connectors for any visible damage or loose connections.

4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code B0078 related to Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance in a Chevrolet?

While some basic troubleshooting like checking connections and wiring can be done by DIY enthusiasts, it is recommended to have a professional mechanic address the issue due to the critical safety nature of airbag systems.

5. Is it safe to continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code B0078 indicating Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance problem?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this issue as the right front/passenger side impact sensor plays a crucial role in deploying the airbag during a collision, and its malfunction can compromise safety.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0078 in a Chevrolet due to Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance issue?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the problem, but it may involve replacing the impact sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or addressing issues with the airbag control module. Costs can range from a couple of hundred to over a thousand dollars.

7. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code B0078 in Chevrolet vehicles for Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance?

It is advisable to check with the nearest Chevrolet dealership or refer to the manufacturer's website for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to this specific OBDII code and issue with the impact sensor.

8. Can a disconnected or faulty battery trigger OBDII code B0078 in a Chevrolet indicating Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance issue?

Yes, a disconnected or faulty battery can sometimes trigger this code due to the disruption in power supply to the airbag system, causing the system to log a fault related to the impact sensor.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code B0078 in a Chevrolet caused by Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance issue?

The repair time can vary based on the exact cause of the problem and the availability of parts. In general, a skilled mechanic can diagnose and repair the issue within a few hours to a day.

10. Can resetting the OBDII system clear the B0078 code related to the Right Front/Passenger Side Impact Sensor Performance in a Chevrolet?

Resetting the OBDII system may clear the code temporarily, but if the underlying issue with the impact sensor or related components is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear. It is crucial to diagnose and fix the root cause of the problem.