Airbags

B0049 — Third Row Right Frontal Airbag Stage 1 Deployment Control Circuit Fault

Severity: medium Safe to drive

What B0049 means

The SRS control module continuously tests the airbag igniter (squib) circuits. B0049 means it found a subfault in the stage 1 deployment control circuit for the third row right frontal airbag, such as an open, a short, out of range resistance or a driver fault inside the module. Exact wording varies by manufacturer, so confirm the airbag location with the wiring diagram for your model.

Symptoms

  • SRS or AIRBAG warning light is on or flashing
  • Code B0049 stored in the SRS module
  • Third row right airbag may be disabled and not deploy in a crash
  • No drivability or engine problems

Possible causes

  1. Damaged wiring harness or poor connection in the third row right airbag circuit
  2. Corroded terminals or a connector that is not fully seated
  3. Faulty SRS control module (stage 1 output driver)
  4. Defective airbag squib or inflator

How to diagnose

  1. Scan the SRS module with a capable scan tool, record all codes, clear them and see if B0049 returns
  2. Inspect the harness and connectors under the third row seats and trim, looking for pinched or chafed wires
  3. Ask whether the interior was recently worked on or seats removed, and confirm all SRS connectors are plugged in
  4. Check connectors for corrosion, moisture and a secure lock
  5. With the battery disconnected and the wait time from the service manual observed, test the circuit for opens, shorts to ground and shorts to voltage, and check resistance against specifications
  6. Check battery voltage and the power supply to the SRS module
  7. If the wiring is good, test or replace the SRS module or airbag following the manufacturer's procedure

Common fixes

  • Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors in the SRS circuit
  • Clean corroded terminals and secure the connectors
  • Replace the SRS control module and program it to the vehicle VIN
  • Replace the faulty airbag module or igniter

Questions and answers

Can I drive with code B0049?

Yes, the car will drive normally. The third row right airbag may not deploy in a crash though, so get it diagnosed as soon as you can.

Can I just clear B0049 myself?

You can clear it, but if the fault is real the code and warning light will come back. Find the cause first, most often a connector or wiring. Always disconnect the battery before working on SRS components.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.