Airbags

B0098 — Right Side Restraint Sensor 3 Circuit Fault

Severity: high Drive with care, to a shop

What B0098 means

The SRS control module continuously monitors side-impact sensors and checks that their circuits are intact. B0098 means it found an open, short or out-of-range resistance in the right-side sensor 3 circuit, or the sensor is not responding. The module stores the code and turns on the airbag warning light.

Symptoms

  • Airbag or SRS warning light is on
  • B0098 stored in the SRS module
  • Right-side airbag may be disabled
  • Side airbag may not deploy in a side impact
  • Warning light may come and go with a poor connection

Possible causes

  1. Open or short in the sensor 3 circuit
  2. Corroded or loose connector
  3. Faulty side-impact sensor
  4. Wiring damaged during seat, door or trim work or after a collision
  5. SRS control module fault or software issue

How to diagnose

  1. Scan with a tool that reads SRS codes and note all related codes
  2. Inspect the sensor connector and harness for corrosion, damage and a secure fit
  3. Ask whether recent work was done near the right pillar, door or seat
  4. Disconnect the battery and wait as the manufacturer specifies, then measure circuit resistance against specs
  5. Test the circuit for shorts to ground and to power
  6. Compare with a known-good sensor or check the sensor's live data
  7. Clear the code and confirm it does not return

Common fixes

  • Repair the wiring harness or replace the damaged connector
  • Clean the terminals and secure the connector
  • Replace right-side impact sensor 3
  • Reflash or replace the SRS module if it is confirmed faulty

Questions and answers

Can I drive with code B0098?

Yes, but the right side airbag may not deploy in a crash. Have it diagnosed as soon as you can.

Why is the SRS light on with B0098?

The SRS module found a problem in a side sensor circuit and is warning you that part of the system may not work.

Can I just clear the code?

If the cause isn't fixed, the code will return. Clearing it leaves the airbag impaired even if the light goes out for a while.

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.