AutoCodes – GMC – B0081 GMC

B0081 GMC Code - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction

Quick Answer

When the ignition is turned ON, the Passenger Presence Module and the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module perform tests to diagnose critical malfunctions within itself. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Presence Module, Passenger Presence Module harness is open or shorted, Passenger Presence Module 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: B0081 GMC indicates Passenger Presence Module Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger Presence Module, Passenger Presence Module harness is open or shorted, Passenger Presence Module 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 7,156

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 18, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0081 GMC Description

When the ignition is turned ON, the Passenger Presence Module and the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module perform tests to diagnose critical malfunctions within itself. When the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module has completed the power-up mode, the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will establish communication with the Passenger Presence Module. The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will also request the instrument panel cluster to illuminate both of the PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators for 5 seconds. If the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module detect that the Passenger Presence Module has set a current Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will then disable the passenger instrument panel air bag deployment loop, set DTC B0081, and illuminate the AIR BAG indicator. The DTC will be set when the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module has a general fault present.

OBDII Code B0081 GMC - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — B0081 GMC Code - Passenger Presence Module Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0081 GMC?

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

How to Fix the DTC B0081 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

B0081:00 Passenger Presence Module Malfunction (sets in the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module)
B0081:11 Passenger Presence Module Above Threshold (Build Check Failure) (sets in the Passenger Presence Module)
B0081:3A Passenger Presence Module Incorrect Component Installed (sets in the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module)
B0081:4B Passenger Presence Module Calibration Not Learned (sets in the Passenger Presence Module)
B0081:5A Passenger Presence Module Plausibility Failure (sets in the Passenger Presence Module)
B0081:71 Passenger Presence Module Invalid Serial Data Received (sets in Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module)

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0081 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 B0081 GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0081 GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0081 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific GMC Models

B0081 2014 GMC Sierra — Passenger Presence Module Malfunction
B0081 2015 GMC Sierra — Passenger Presence Module Malfunction
B0081 2016 GMC Sierra — Passenger Presence Module Malfunction
B0081 2017 GMC Sierra — Passenger Presence Module Malfunction
B0081 2018 GMC Sierra — Passenger Presence Module Malfunction

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 B0081 GMC Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0081 GMC (Passenger Presence Module Malfunction)?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, a message indicating a passenger airbag fault, and potential deactivation of the passenger airbag.

2. What can cause the OBDII code B0081 GMC to trigger?

The code B0081 GMC is typically triggered by a malfunction in the passenger presence module, which may be caused by a faulty sensor, wiring issues, or a problem with the module itself.

3. How serious is the OBDII code B0081 GMC (Passenger Presence Module Malfunction)?

This code is considered serious as it relates to the passenger airbag system. If left unresolved, it can result in the passenger airbag not deploying properly in the event of a crash, potentially increasing the risk of injury to the passenger.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0081 GMC?

Diagnosing this code usually involves using a professional diagnostic scanner to read the fault codes and pinpoint the issue with the passenger presence module. It may also require checking the wiring and sensor connections.

5. Can I repair the OBDII code B0081 GMC issue myself?

While some DIY enthusiasts may attempt to address this issue themselves, it is recommended to seek professional help for diagnosing and repairing the passenger presence module malfunction to ensure the airbag system is properly restored.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0081 GMC?

The cost of repairing the B0081 code can vary depending on the underlying cause of the issue, labor rates, and the price of any replacement parts needed. It's best to consult with a mechanic for an accurate estimate.

7. Is it safe to drive with the OBDII code B0081 GMC active?

It is not recommended to drive with the B0081 code active, as it indicates a malfunction in the passenger airbag system. This can compromise the safety of the passenger in the event of a collision.

8. Can resetting the OBDII code B0081 GMC make the issue go away?

Simply resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying problem causing the passenger presence module malfunction. It's important to address the root cause of the issue.

9. How long does it take to repair the OBDII code B0081 GMC?

The repair time for the B0081 code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of accessing and replacing the passenger presence module. It's best to consult with a mechanic for a more accurate timeline.

10. Will the OBDII code B0081 GMC affect the vehicle's overall performance?

The B0081 code is specifically related to the passenger airbag system and is unlikely to impact the overall performance of the vehicle. However, it is crucial for safety reasons to address this issue promptly.