Airbags

B00D1 — Passenger Seatbelt Indicator Circuit Fault

Severity: medium Safe to drive

What B00D1 means

The airbag (SRS) or body control module has detected a problem in the passenger seatbelt indicator circuit, which includes the indicator itself, the buckle sensor and the related wiring. Normally the buckle switch tells the module whether the belt is fastened, and the module turns the warning light on or off accordingly. When the signal is missing or implausible, the module stores this code.

Symptoms

  • Passenger seatbelt warning light is on or flashing
  • Airbag (SRS) light may also be on
  • Light stays on with the belt buckled, or stays off when unbuckled
  • No chime for an unbuckled passenger
  • Fault comes and goes when the seat is moved or bumped

Possible causes

  1. Faulty seatbelt buckle sensor or switch on the passenger side
  2. Open, shorted or corroded wiring under the passenger seat
  3. Poor connection at the seat or buckle connector
  4. Harness damaged by seat movement or items stored under the seat
  5. Body control or airbag module fault (unlikely)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan all modules, including SRS, and record the code and freeze data to see whether the fault is current
  2. Make sure nothing is stuck in the buckle or on the seat, then latch and unlatch the belt several times
  3. Inspect the connectors and harness under the passenger seat for damage, moisture and corrosion
  4. Disconnect the battery and wait as the manufacturer specifies before unplugging any SRS connector
  5. Test the buckle sensor circuit for continuity and resistance using the wiring diagram
  6. Watch the belt status in the scan tool while buckling and unbuckling
  7. Clear the code and road test to see if it returns

Common fixes

  • Replace the passenger seatbelt buckle or sensor
  • Repair the wiring and connectors under the seat and clean the contacts
  • Replace a damaged seat harness
  • Update software or replace the SRS or body control module only if the fault is confirmed

Questions and answers

Can I drive with code B00D1?

Yes, the car will drive normally. The passenger safety system may not behave correctly though, so get it diagnosed soon.

Why is the passenger belt light on when the belt is buckled?

Most often the buckle sensor or a connector under the seat is at fault. A damaged wiring harness can cause it too.

Can I fix B00D1 myself?

You can check the buckle and inspect the connectors yourself. Work on SRS components requires disconnecting the battery and extra care, so see a shop if you are unsure.

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.