AutoCodesPontiac – B0079 Pontiac

B0079 Pontiac Code - Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit

Quick Answer

The seat position sensor is used to determine the proximity of the front driver or passenger seat position with respect to the front air bag. Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Position Sensor, Driver Seat Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Driver Seat Position Sensor 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
B0079 Pontiac indicates Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Driver Seat Position Sensor, Driver Seat Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Driver Seat Position Sensor 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 1,304
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 17, 2022
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Code B0079 Pontiac Description

The seat position sensor is used to determine the proximity of the front driver or passenger seat position with respect to the front air bag. There are two states of seat position, forward and rearward. The seat position sensor interfaces with the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) and allows the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module to disable stage 2 of the air bag for a front seat that is forward of the forward/rearward point in seat track. The seat position sensor provides two current ranges, one range for the forward seat position and one for the rearward seat position. When the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module receives input from a seat position sensor that the seat is rearward, and the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module will not disable stage 2 deployment. When the seat is forward, the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will disable stage 2 deployment. The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module monitors the seat position sensor circuit and if a fault is detected, the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will set Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B0079 and disable stage 2 frontal deployment.
OBDII Code B0079 Pontiac - Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit - AutoCodes.com
B0079 Pontiac Code - Driver Seat Position Sensor Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0079 Pontiac?

  • Faulty Driver Seat Position Sensor
  • Driver Seat Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Driver Seat Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0079 Pontiac?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0079 Pontiac 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 B0079 Pontiac code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0079 Pontiac code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 B0079 Pontiac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0079 in a Pontiac related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

The common symptoms include issues with the power seat functions, such as the seat not moving properly or the seat position not being adjustable.

2. What can cause the OBDII code B0079 in a Pontiac related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

The code B0079 is typically triggered by a faulty driver seat position sensor, damaged wiring in the sensor circuit, or a malfunction in the seat control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0079 in my Pontiac related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

Diagnosing the B0079 code involves using a diagnostic scan tool to retrieve the specific error code, testing the driver seat position sensor and related wiring for continuity and proper operation, and inspecting the seat control module for any signs of damage.

4. What are some repair tips for fixing the OBDII code B0079 in a Pontiac related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

Repair tips include checking and repairing any damaged wiring in the sensor circuit, replacing the driver seat position sensor if faulty, and resetting the error code with a diagnostic scan tool after making repairs.

5. Can I drive my Pontiac with the OBDII code B0079 related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

It is not recommended to drive your Pontiac with the B0079 code active, as it can affect the proper functioning of the driver seat, potentially compromising safety and comfort while driving.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code B0079 in a Pontiac related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

7. Are there any safety considerations to keep in mind when dealing with the OBDII code B0079 in a Pontiac related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

Safety is important when working on the driver seat position sensor circuit, so be sure to disconnect the car battery before starting any repairs to avoid electrical hazards.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code B0079 in a Pontiac related to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to diagnose and repair the issue, it is recommended to consult with a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and proper repair of the driver seat position sensor circuit.

9. Will the OBDII code B0079 in a Pontiac reset itself after repairs are made to the driver seat position sensor circuit?

After the necessary repairs are made and the error code is cleared with a diagnostic scan tool, the B0079 code should reset itself if the issue has been successfully resolved.

10. How can I prevent the OBDII code B0079 from appearing in my Pontiac related to the driver seat position sensor circuit in the future?

Regularly inspecting and maintaining the driver seat position sensor and related components, as well as addressing any issues promptly, can help prevent the recurrence of the B0079 code in the future.

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