AutoCodesGeneric – B0136

B0136 Code - Open Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit

Quick Answer

The left seat belt pretensioner squib circuit consists of the air bag center sensor and right seat belt pretensioner. Common causes include Faulty Left Seat Belt Pretensioner, Left Seat Belt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted, Left Seat Belt Pretensioner 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
B0136 indicates Open Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Left Seat Belt Pretensioner, Left Seat Belt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted, Left Seat Belt Pretensioner 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 2,753
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 10, 2021
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Code B0136 Description

The left seat belt pretensioner squib circuit consists of the air bag center sensor and right seat belt pretensioner. The squib circuit causes the left seat belt pretensioner to deploy when deployment conditions are satisfied. The Air Bag Control Module monitors the Left Seat Belt Pretensioner. The Air Bag Control Module sets the OBDII code when the Left Seat Belt Pretensioner is not to factory specifications.
OBDII Code B0136 - Open Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit - AutoCodes.com
B0136 Code - Open Left Seat Belt Pretensioner Squib Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0136?

  • Faulty Left Seat Belt Pretensioner
  • Left Seat Belt Pretensioner harness is open or shorted
  • Left Seat Belt Pretensioner circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Air Bag Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B0136?

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 B0136 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 B0136 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0136 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0136 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

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 B0136 Code

1. What does the OBDII code B0136 mean?

The B0136 code indicates an open circuit in the left seat belt pretensioner squib, which is part of the vehicle's airbag system.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B0136?

Symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and possible failure of the seat belt pretensioner to deploy in an accident.

3. What causes the B0136 code to appear?

Common causes include damaged wiring, a disconnected or loose connector, a faulty seat belt pretensioner, or a malfunctioning airbag control module.

4. Can I still drive safely with the B0136 code?

While the vehicle is drivable, the airbag system may not function properly in an accident, posing a safety risk.

5. How is the B0136 code diagnosed?

A technician will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the seat belt pretensioner wiring and connectors, and test the pretensioner circuit for continuity.

6. How do you fix the B0136 code?

Repairs may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, reconnecting loose connectors, or replacing the faulty seat belt pretensioner.

7. How much does it cost to fix the B0136 code?

Repair costs vary but can range from $100 to $500 depending on whether it's a wiring issue or if the pretensioner needs replacement.

8. Can I reset the B0136 code without fixing the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the issue will cause it to reappear, and the airbag system will remain compromised.

9. What should I do if the B0136 code comes back after repairs?

If the code reappears, recheck the wiring, connectors, and pretensioner for missed issues, or have the airbag control module inspected.

10. Is it possible for the B0136 code to trigger accidentally?

Yes, the code can be triggered by accidental disconnection of the pretensioner wiring during maintenance or by a weak electrical connection.

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