OBD-II Code B0108: Passenger Airbag Circuit Short to Power

What Does B0108 Mean?

Trouble code B0108 signifies the airbag control module detected a short circuit to battery positive voltage (B+) in the passenger-side airbag deployment circuit. This electrical fault deactivates the passenger airbag and triggers a failsafe that disables the entire Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). No airbags will deploy during an accident.

Technical definition: The SAE/ISO definition for B0108 is "Short to B+ in Front Passenger Side Squib Circuit". 'B+' refers to the vehicle's positive battery voltage (typically 12V). This indicates the wiring or the squib (the airbag igniter) has an improper, dangerous connection to a live power source.

Can I Drive With B0108?

No — Do Not Drive. This code means the passenger airbag system has a critical electrical fault and is disabled. As a failsafe measure, when any part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) has a fault, the entire system—including the driver's airbag and seatbelt pretensioners—shuts down. Driving with this code active guarantees NO airbags will deploy in a crash. Do not drive the vehicle until it is repaired.

Common Causes

• Damaged or Corroded Wiring/Connectors (Very Common) — The yellow-sheathed SRS wiring harness under the passenger seat or behind the glove box is highly susceptible to damage. Wires get pinched by seat tracks, frayed by vibration, or corroded by moisture, creating a direct short to a 12V power wire.
• Faulty Passenger Airbag Assembly (Squib) (Common) — The squib (igniter element) inside the airbag module fails internally. This creates a short circuit within the airbag assembly itself, requiring total replacement of the unit.
• Aftermarket Accessory Installation Damage (Common) — Screws or brackets accidentally driven through the SRS wiring harness during interior repairs (e.g., stereo, alarm, or center console installation) cause direct short circuits.
• Faulty Clockspring (Common) — Though typically associated with the driver's side, a shorted clockspring (the coiled ribbon cable in the steering column) disrupts the entire SRS 5V reference circuit, triggering B0108. This is almost always accompanied by a dead horn or failing steering wheel controls.
• Faulty Airbag Control Module (SRS/RCM) (Less Common) — The central SRS computer fails due to internal electronic faults or water intrusion. Located under the center console or front seats, spilled liquids or heater core leaks cause severe corrosion and internal shorts.
• Faulty Front Impact Sensor (Less Common) — Particularly on GM models, a faulty front-end impact sensor near the radiator sends erroneous voltage back to the main module. Road salt and water spray destroy these sensors over time.
• Low Battery Voltage (Rare) — A failing battery causes extreme voltage drops during engine cranking, forcing the SRS module to log false short-circuit codes.

Symptoms

• Airbag Warning Light is On — The red airbag/SRS warning light remains permanently illuminated on the dashboard after startup.
• "Service Airbag" Message — The driver information center displays 'Service Airbag System' or 'Service Restraint System'.
• Passenger Airbag Off Light is On — The passenger airbag status light remains stuck on 'OFF', regardless of seat occupancy.
• Horn and Steering Wheel Controls Fail — If a faulty clockspring causes the short, the horn, radio controls, and cruise control buttons stop working simultaneously.
• Total Airbag System Failure — The entire SRS system deactivates. Zero airbags will deploy in a collision.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this code.

Common Fixes & Costs

• Repairing Damaged Wiring or Connectors — Parts: $10-$50, Labor: $150-$300, ~1.5 hr book time (Intermediate)
• Replacing the Passenger Airbag Assembly — Parts: $600-$1,800+, Labor: $200-$400, ~2.5 hr book time (Professional)
• Replacing the Airbag Clockspring — Parts: $150-$450, Labor: $120-$250, ~1.5 hr book time (Intermediate)
• Replacing the Airbag Control Module (SRS/RCM) — Parts: $300-$900, Labor: $150-$300 (plus programming), ~1.5 hr book time (Professional)
• Replacing a Faulty Front Impact Sensor — Parts: $70-$250, Labor: $100-$200, ~1.2 hr book time (Intermediate)

DIY vs Professional

• Repairing Damaged Wiring — Beginner: No
  Tools: Multimeter, wiring diagrams, depinning tools, high-quality solder seal connectors or OEM-spec crimpers.
• Replacing the Passenger Airbag Assembly — Beginner: No
  Tools: Trim removal tools, socket set.
• Replacing the Airbag Clockspring — Beginner: Yes, with caution.
  Tools: Steering wheel puller, socket set, torque wrench, trim removal tools, snap ring pliers.
• Replacing the Airbag Control Module (SRS/RCM) — Beginner: No
  Tools: Socket set, trim removal tools.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide

When a used part is worth it: New OEM from a dealer is safest. A used OEM part from a certified recycler is an acceptable alternative if on a budget. For the control module, having your original module reset by a specialist service is better than buying a used one, which contains crash data or requires costly dealer programming.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 100000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

Donor quality checklist:

• Must be purchased from a Certified Automotive Recycler (ARA) following strict handling protocols.
• Verify the part has never deployed and comes from a vehicle with no flood or fire damage.
• Part number must be an exact match to the original. VIN matching is required.
• Avoid uncertified online sellers; the risk of counterfeit parts is high.

Decision logic:

• If The part is an airbag assembly → New OEM from a dealer is safest. A used OEM part from a certified recycler is an acceptable alternative if on a budget.
• If The part is the Airbag Control Module → New OEM is best. Sending your original module for a professional reset is the second-best option. A used module is a last resort.
• If The part is a clockspring or sensor → New OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts are required, as these parts have internal wear components.

Warranty tradeoff: Used airbags from certified sellers offer a 30-90 day warranty. New OEM parts carry a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty. Aftermarket parts vary from 1 year to lifetime.

Worst-case if a used part fails: $1000-2500 if a faulty used airbag is installed. This includes repeat labor and sourcing a new part. The ultimate cost is failure to deploy in an accident.

What Happens If You Wait — Timeline

1. Immediate (0-1 week): Code B0108 sets, and the airbag warning light illuminates. The entire SRS system is disabled as a failsafe. There are no driveability symptoms. (MPG impact: 0%% · Added cost: $0)
2. 1 week - 3 months: The safety risk remains the primary concern. The short-to-power fault creates a minor parasitic battery drain, making the vehicle harder to start after sitting. (MPG impact: 0%% · Added cost: $0-$50 (potential for battery trickle charging))
3. 3 - 12 months: The parasitic drain worsens, leading to a dead battery and a no-start situation. Ongoing electrical stress increases the risk of heat damage to the wiring harness connector pins. (MPG impact: 0%% · Added cost: $150-$300 (for a new battery) + potential cost of a new wiring pigtail ($50))
4. 12+ months: The persistent short circuit generates enough heat to melt the wiring harness connector or damage the driver circuit inside the Airbag Control Module, requiring complex module and harness replacement. (MPG impact: 0%% · Added cost: $800-$2000+ (for module replacement, harness repair, and programming))

Cost of Not Fixing It

• Immediate: The entire Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is disabled. This creates an extreme safety risk of severe injury or death in a collision. (Added cost: N/A)
• 1-6 months: The short to power causes a parasitic battery drain, leading to a dead battery and a no-start condition. (Added cost: $150-$300 (for a new battery if drained completely))
• 6+ months: The persistent electrical short generates heat, melting the wiring harness or destroying the Airbag Control Module, turning a $150 repair into a $1,500 nightmare. (Added cost: $500-$1500+ (for module and/or harness replacement))

Diagnosis Steps

1. Confirm the Code with an SRS-Capable Scanner
   Use an OBD-II scanner that reads Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) codes to verify B0108 is active. Basic engine code readers cannot see 'B' codes. Note all other active or pending codes.
   Tools: SRS-capable OBD-II Scanner (Beginner)
2. Visual Inspection of Key Areas
   Inspect the easily accessible wiring. Look under the passenger seat and behind the glove compartment for pinched or frayed yellow wiring looms, loose connectors, or water damage.
   Tools: Flashlight, Trim removal tools (Beginner)
3. CRITICAL SAFETY STEP: Disable the SRS System
   Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait exactly 15 minutes before working on any SRS components. This allows the system's backup power capacitor to fully discharge, preventing lethal accidental deployment.
   Tools: Wrench set (Intermediate)
4. Inspect and Reseat Connectors
   With the system disabled, disconnect the main connectors for the passenger airbag (behind the glove box) and the SRS control module (under the center console). Look for green or white corrosion, bent pins, or loose terminals. Re-seat them firmly until they click.
   Tools: Trim removal tools, Pick set (Intermediate)
5. Isolate the Fault with a Resistor Simulator
   Disconnect the passenger airbag connector. Plug a 2.0-3.5 ohm airbag simulator resistor into the VEHICLE HARNESS side of the connector. Reconnect the battery, turn the ignition on, and clear the B0108 code. If the code stays clear, the airbag assembly is faulty. If it returns instantly, the fault is in the wiring or SRS module.
   Tools: Airbag simulator resistor (2.0-3.5 ohm) (Advanced)
6. Test for a Short to Power
   With the battery reconnected BUT the airbag and SRS module disconnected, turn the ignition ON. Use a multimeter to measure voltage between the P+ (positive squib) wire terminal at the module connector and a known good chassis ground. Any reading above 1V confirms a short to power in the wiring harness. A healthy, isolated circuit reads 0V.
   Tools: Multimeter, Vehicle-specific wiring diagram (Advanced)
7. Check Clockspring Live Data (If Applicable)
   If a clockspring fault is suspected, use an advanced scan tool to monitor the live data PID for 'Driver Airbag Resistance'. Slowly turn the steering wheel lock to lock. If you see large, erratic jumps in resistance or the value goes to 'FAIL', the clockspring requires replacement.
   Tools: Advanced SRS-capable Scan Tool (Advanced)
8. Check Battery and System Voltage
   Use a multimeter to verify the battery has at least 12.4 volts with the engine off and produces stable voltage (13.2-14.5 volts) when running. Unstable voltage causes phantom codes.
   Tools: Multimeter (Intermediate)
9. Test the Squib Resistance (Optional - Advanced)
   With the airbag assembly disconnected, measure the resistance across its two pins. A healthy squib reads between 1.5 and 3.5 ohms. Many connectors have a shorting bar that must be carefully bypassed with a small pick. A reading outside this range indicates a faulty airbag. Only use a modern, high-impedance multimeter.
   Tools: High-impedance multimeter, Non-conductive pick (Professional)

When This Code Triggers (Freeze-Frame Conditions)

• Ignition Status: ON (The code sets during the initial key-on self-test.)
• System Voltage: 11.5V - 14.5V (The SRS module logs the fault during a self-check when voltage is in the normal operating range.)
• Time Since Key On: < 10 seconds (The fault is detected and logged within seconds of turning the vehicle on.)
• Vehicle Speed: 0 mph (The vehicle is stationary during the startup diagnostic routine.)

Related Codes

• B0107 — Indicates a 'Short to Ground' in the same passenger airbag igniter circuit. B0108 is a short to power, while B0107 is a short to ground. Diagnosis involves checking for continuity to chassis ground instead of voltage.
• B0109 — Another code indicating a 'Short to Ground' in the front passenger airbag igniter circuit, functionally identical to B0107.
• B0103 — Points to a fault in the right front (passenger) impact sensor circuit, not the airbag squib circuit. Diagnosis focuses on the sensor near the radiator support.
• B00A0 — Common on Ford vehicles, indicating a fault with the Occupant Classification System (OCS). The OCS uses a sensor in the passenger seat to determine occupant weight. A B00A0 fault occurs alongside B0108, complicating diagnosis.

Climate & Environmental Factors

• High Humidity / Water Intrusion: Water leaking into the cabin corrodes the airbag control module, located on the floor under the center console. Humidity accelerates corrosion on connector pins, leading to shorts.
• Road Salt (Cold Climates): In regions using road salt, front impact sensors near the radiator are highly susceptible to corrosion. This destroys the sensor's internal circuitry, triggering various SRS codes.
• Temperature Fluctuations: Extreme shifts in temperature cause intermittent electrical connections. A failing clockspring acts up when it's very hot or very cold due to thermal expansion of its internal ribbon cables.

How to Talk to a Mechanic About This Code

Say this: "I have an airbag light on and my scanner shows code B0108, 'Passenger Airbag Circuit Short to Power'. I'd like to schedule a diagnostic to determine if the fault is in the wiring harness, the clockspring, or the airbag module itself. Please perform a full circuit test before recommending a part replacement."

This signals you understand it's a specific electrical fault and prevents a shop from immediately quoting an expensive airbag replacement. It directs them to test the circuit first, identifying cheaper wiring problems.

Avoid saying:

• 'My airbag light is on, can you just reset it?'
• 'Just fix whatever's wrong with the airbag.'
• 'I think I need a new airbag.'

Questions to ask before authorizing the repair:

• Did you use a resistor simulator to isolate the fault between the wiring and the airbag module?
• Can you show me the damaged wiring or the voltage reading that confirms the short?
• If the module needs replacement, does the new one require VIN programming?
• What is the warranty on this specific repair and the part?

Where to Take It: Dealer vs Independent vs Chain

• Dealer: A safe but expensive option. Necessary if the vehicle is under warranty or if the airbag control module requires replacement and proprietary programming.
  Best for: Vehicles under warranty or with a potential recall/TSB., Complex repairs requiring module programming., When you want a guaranteed OEM part and manufacturer-certified technician.
  Downsides: Highest labor rates and part costs., Less willing to perform simpler wiring repairs vs. full harness replacement. (Typical cost: +50% vs. baseline)
• Independent Shop: Best fit for most out-of-warranty vehicles, provided you choose a reputable shop. Verify they are comfortable with SRS diagnostics and electrical testing.
  Best for: Out-of-warranty vehicles where cost is a factor., Diagnosing common electrical faults., Owners who have a trusted relationship with a local mechanic.
  Downsides: Shop must have an SRS-capable scan tool and technicians experienced with airbag systems., Quality and expertise vary widely. (Typical cost: +0% vs. baseline)
• Chain Shop: AVOID. Airbag system repair is a safety-critical task requiring specialized tools and expertise not found at chain shops.
  Best for: Simple, routine maintenance like oil changes or tires.
  Downsides: Technicians lack specialized training for SRS systems., High risk of misdiagnosis, leading to unnecessary part replacements., Improper handling of airbag components is a significant safety risk. (Typical cost: -10% vs. baseline)

When to Walk Away From the Repair

If the estimated repair cost for the B0108 code exceeds 40-50% of your car's current private-party value, consider selling or trading it in rather than repairing it.

• Car worth $4000, fix is $1800: Walk away. The repair cost is 45% of the vehicle's value, which is too high for a car of this worth, especially given the safety-critical nature of the fault.
• Car worth $12000, fix is $450: Fix it. A $450 repair for a wiring or clockspring issue is well below the threshold and restores a critical safety feature.
• Car worth $2500, fix is $1500: Walk away. The repair cost is 60% of the car's value. It is not economically viable to perform this repair.

What Scan Tool You Need for This Code

Minimum: A scanner that reads and clears SRS (Airbag) 'B' codes. Standard engine-only code readers will not work.

A cheap, generic OBD-II reader only checks for engine codes ('P' codes) and shows 'No Codes Found' even when your airbag light is on. You need a tool that communicates with the SRS control module.

Budget: FOXWELL NT604 Elite / Autel AutoLink AL619 (~$90) — Reads and clears codes from the Engine, ABS, and SRS (Airbag) modules. This is the minimum required to pull the B0108 code and reset the light after a repair.

Mid-range: BlueDriver Pro / FOXWELL NT630 Plus (~$120) — Provides SRS code reading/clearing plus live data streaming. Useful for diagnosing a faulty clockspring by graphing its resistance values while turning the steering wheel.

Professional: Autel MaxiCOM MK808 / Foxwell NT809 (~$500-800) — Offers full bidirectional control to test components, perform module programming, and access manufacturer-specific data, essential for complex diagnostics or module replacement.

Rent vs buy: Free 'loaner tool' programs at auto parts stores only offer basic engine code readers that CANNOT read SRS codes. For a B0108 code, you must buy a capable scanner or pay a shop for the diagnosis.

How to Clear the Code After You Fix It

1. Ensure the physical fault is fully repaired.
2. With the ignition OFF, reconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal.
3. Use an SRS-capable OBD-II scan tool to access the Supplemental Restraint System module.
4. Select the option to 'Clear Codes' or 'Erase DTCs'.
5. Cycle the ignition OFF, then ON, and observe the airbag warning light. It should illuminate for about 6 seconds and then turn off.

Drive cycle: No specific drive cycle is required for the SRS system. The system performs a self-test upon every key-on event. If the fault is corrected, the code clears and does not return.

Readiness monitors affected: None. Readiness monitors relate to the vehicle's emissions system, not the SRS system.

Watch out for:

• Attempting to clear the code without fixing the short circuit causes the code to return immediately.
• Using a basic engine code reader that cannot communicate with the SRS module.
• Disconnecting the battery will NOT clear a hard SRS fault code; it requires a capable scan tool.

Will This Fail Emissions / State Inspection?

No — by itself this code doesn't fail OBD inspection (but it can keep readiness monitors from setting, which causes a separate fail).

• California: An airbag light will NOT cause a failure of the California Smog Check, as the SRS system is not part of the emissions test.
• New York: An illuminated airbag warning light is cause for an immediate safety inspection failure.
• Texas: An airbag warning light will NOT cause a failure of the Texas state safety inspection. The SRS system is not an inspected item.

Most Commonly Affected Vehicles

• Toyota Corolla, Tacoma (2003-2005, 2020-2022) — Frequently reported for this code, caused by an internal failure of the passenger airbag squib circuit. A recall in Jan 2024 for 2020-2022 models addresses a faulty OCS sensor causing a short.
• Chevrolet / GMC Tahoe, Yukon, Silverado, Sierra, Malibu (2003-2007, 2014-2015) — On trucks/SUVs, this is caused by corroded front impact sensors near the radiator. For 2014-15 Malibu models, GM issued TSB 16-NA-018 for a pinched SRS harness under the passenger seat frame.
• Ford F-150, Fusion, Edge (2006-2014, 2023) — Traced to a faulty clockspring, which also causes the horn and steering wheel controls to fail. Recall 23V-847 covers some 2023 F-150s for a bad clockspring weld.
• Honda Accord, Civic, Pilot, Odyssey (2001-2012) — A common cause is the failure of the 'Passenger Airbag Off' indicator light assembly. A burnt-out bulb or bad solder joint in this switch creates a fault in the SRS circuit.
• Fiat 500 (2012-2017) — Caused by a poor connection in the large yellow electrical connector under either the driver's or passenger's seat. Disconnecting and firmly reconnecting it resolves the issue.
• Hyundai Tucson, Accent (2016-2019) — Hyundai issued a warranty extension (TSB 24-BE-014H) for the Airbag Control Unit (ACU) to 15 years/unlimited miles. A failing ACU stores various DTCs, including B0108.
• Nissan Altima, Sentra, Rogue, Versa (2013-2024) — Subject to TSB NTB19-071D for issues with the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor mat in the passenger seat. A fault in the OCS system triggers related SRS codes.
• Subaru Legacy, Outback (2007-2009) — Involves cracked solder joints on the overhead console's LED circuit board for the passenger airbag status indicator. The SRS module interprets this as a restraint system problem.

Manufacturer-Specific Notes

• Toyota: Toyota service manuals refer to the passenger-side airbag igniter circuit as the "P squib circuit." Diagnostic procedures require a special service tool (SST 09843-18040), which is a jumper/resistor used to test module response.
• General Motors (GM): On GM trucks and SUVs, airbag codes are frequently caused by corrosion of the front impact sensors located on the radiator core support. TSB 16-NA-018 exists for 2014-15 Malibus due to a pinched SRS harness.
• Honda: For 2000s models, the airbag light is triggered by a failure within the 'Passenger Airbag Off' indicator light assembly. A burnt-out LED bulb creates a fault the SRS module cannot distinguish from an airbag failure.
• Fiat/Chrysler: The Fiat 500 sets airbag codes due to poor pin tension in the large electrical connectors under the front seats. Disconnect, inspect, and firmly reconnect these connectors as a first step.
• Hyundai: Hyundai extended the warranty on the Airbag Control Unit (ACU) to 15 years for certain 2018-19 Accent and 2016-17 Tucson models under TSB 24-BE-014H. A dealer replaces the module for free.

Real Owner Stories

2004 Toyota Tacoma TRD PreRunner

Airbag light came on. A local dealer pulled codes B0108 and B1100 (Airbag Sensor Assembly Malfunction) and quoted a new airbag assembly.

What they tried:

1. A local mechanic replaced the clockspring, but the light returned quickly.
2. The mechanic suggested sending the SRS module for an out-of-state rebuild for $100.

Outcome: The owner was left deciding between a costly new airbag assembly or a module rebuild.

Lesson: When multiple SRS codes are present, replacing parts like the clockspring without a full circuit diagnosis wastes money. Module repair is a cost-effective option.

2003 Toyota Corolla with 170k miles

Bought the car with the airbag light on. A scan revealed code B0108.

What they tried:

1. The mechanic checked all related electrical connections for tightness and corrosion.

Outcome: The mechanic stated that since the connections were good, the problem was an internal failure of the passenger airbag assembly, requiring replacement.

Lesson: For a high-mileage vehicle with a B0108 code, an internal failure of the airbag squib is a common cause. Always perform the free check of all accessible connectors first.

2018 Chevrolet Malibu

The airbag light illuminated, causing safety concerns.

What they tried:

1. The owner took the vehicle to a dealership for diagnosis.

Outcome: The dealership diagnosed a B0108 code caused by a manufacturing defect in the airbag module. The module was replaced under warranty, saving $800.

Lesson: Check for active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle's make and model. A known manufacturing defect results in a free repair at the dealership.

How to Prevent This Code From Triggering

• Apply dielectric grease to vulnerable connectors (During any related service) — Applying non-conductive dielectric grease to the seals of SRS connectors creates a barrier that repels moisture and prevents pin corrosion.
• Secure loose items in the cabin (Daily habit) — Items rolling under the front seats snag and damage the sensitive SRS wiring and connectors, leading to shorts.
• Address water leaks promptly (As needed) — Fixing windshield or sunroof leaks prevents water from reaching the floor-mounted Airbag Control Module, avoiding catastrophic corrosion.
• Use caution when installing aftermarket accessories (During installation) — Instruct installers to never tap into or run wiring near the yellow-sheathed SRS harness. Piercing this harness with a screw causes shorts that trigger B0108.
• Perform regular battery and charging system checks (Annually) — A weak battery causes low system voltage, confusing sensitive electronics like the SRS module and causing false error codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 'squib' and can I replace just that part?

A squib is the small pyrotechnic igniter device inside the airbag module that fires to inflate the bag. It is an integral part of the airbag assembly and cannot be purchased or replaced separately. If the squib is faulty, the entire airbag module requires replacement.

What does 'Short to B+' mean?

'B+' is a standard automotive term for the battery's positive terminal voltage (typically +12V). A 'Short to B+' means a wire in the airbag circuit has an unwanted connection to a 12V power source.

Can I reset the airbag light myself to fix B0108?

You can clear the code with an SRS-capable scanner, but it returns instantly if the short circuit remains. Resetting the light does not fix the problem and provides a false sense of security. You must diagnose and correct the root electrical fault.

What are the most common misdiagnoses for B0108?

The most common mistake is immediately replacing the expensive passenger airbag assembly without testing the circuit. The fault is often a much cheaper wiring or connector issue. Using an airbag simulator resistor prevents this misdiagnosis.

My car's floor got wet. Could that cause the airbag light?

Absolutely. The Airbag Control Module (SRS module) is located on the floor under the center console or seats. Water intrusion soaks the module, corroding its internal circuits and triggering codes like B0108.

Is this code related to the Takata airbag recall?

No. The Takata recall concerned the chemical propellant in the inflator degrading due to heat and humidity. Code B0108 is a distinct electrical circuit fault, though an electrical issue is sometimes discovered during a recall inspection.

Why is it unsafe to drive with the B0108 code?

When the airbag warning light is on, the vehicle's computer disables the entire Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) as a failsafe. NONE of the airbags or seatbelt pretensioners will activate in a crash, significantly increasing the risk of severe injury.

Key Takeaways

• Code B0108 indicates a short to power in the passenger airbag circuit, instantly disabling the entire Supplemental Restraint System (SRS).
• Driving with an active B0108 code guarantees zero airbag deployment during a collision, creating an extreme safety risk.
• Inspect the yellow SRS wiring harness under the passenger seat and behind the glovebox first, as pinched or corroded wires cause the majority of these faults.
• Plug a 2.0-3.5 ohm airbag simulator resistor into the harness to definitively isolate whether the fault lies in the $800 airbag assembly or the $50 wiring.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait exactly 15 minutes before touching any SRS components to prevent lethal accidental deployment.
• On 2001-2012 Hondas and 2007-2009 Subarus, a burnt-out 'Passenger Airbag Off' dashboard bulb frequently triggers this exact code.