Code
B06A3
Generic
B — Body
Occupant Classification System Fault
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Damaged or shorted occupant detection mat (seat sensor pad)
- Open or short in sensor wiring or poor connector contact (moisture/corrosion)
- Faulty OCS control module or seat control unit
- Loss of power or ground to the OCS module
- CAN bus or LIN communication fault between OCS and airbag/SRS module
- Incorrect module software or calibration needed after seat replacement
Symptoms
- SRS / airbag warning light illuminated on dash
- Passenger airbag indicator incorrectly showing disabled/enabled
- Passenger airbag not arming when occupied (or arming incorrectly)
- DTC stored in OCS or SRS module with possible related communication codes
- Intermittent or persistent fault after seat movement
What to check
- Scan SRS and OCS modules with a capable scan tool; read and record all codes and freeze frame data
- Verify battery voltage is within normal range (11–14.5 V) with key on
- Visually inspect seat area for signs of liquid, corrosion, or physical damage
- Check connectors under the seat are fully seated and locking tabs intact
- Wiggle test wiring harness while watching live data for changes
- Check for related bus communication codes (U-codes) that indicate network issues
Signal parameters
- OCS mat element resistance or impedance (manufacturer-specific ohms range)
- Seat occupancy voltage or sensor voltage range (0–5 V typical for some systems)
- OCS module supply voltage (B+ with ignition on)
- Ground integrity (low resistance to chassis ground)
- OCS status bits on CAN: occupant present/absent, weight classification, self-test status
- Short-to-ground or short-to-voltage indications on sensor channels
Diagnostic algorithm
- Safety first: follow vehicle manufacturer SRS service procedures — disable SRS system or disconnect battery as required before disconnecting connectors or performing repairs.
- Scan and record all stored codes from SRS and OCS modules. Note freeze frame or PID values showing sensor readings at time of fault.
- Visually inspect the seat and occupant sensor mat for damage, stains, or foreign objects. Inspect wiring routing under the seat and seat track areas for pinched/damaged wires.
- Verify power and ground to the OCS module: measure B+ at the module with ignition on and check ground resistance to chassis.
- With a scan tool capable of OCS diagnostics, view live sensor data and run any built-in self-tests or sensor resistive checks. Wiggle harness/connectors while monitoring for changes.
- If a specific sensor channel shows open/short or out-of-range resistance, disconnect the mat and measure continuity/resistance of the mat per service data. Replace mat if out of spec.
- If wiring is suspected, test continuity between mat connector and OCS module connector, checking for shorts to chassis or battery voltage.
- If communication errors are present, check CAN/LIN bus voltages, termination, and related module communications. Repair any bus faults before replacing OCS module.
- If module or mat is replaced, perform required calibration/learn procedure for the OCS per manufacturer instructions and then clear codes. Re-check for reappearance of B06A3.
- If fault persists after wiring and sensor checks, consider replacement of the OCS control module and repeat calibration; retest thoroughly.
Likely causes
- Poor connector contacts or damaged wiring under the seat (most common)
- Faulty or degraded occupant detection mat/sensor pad
- Module fault or intermittent communication on vehicle bus
- Recent seat removal or service without OCS recalibration
Fault status
Status
Occupant Classification System fault — SRS warning lamp may be illuminated; passenger airbag enable/disable may be incorrect. Diagnostic trouble code B06A3 stored in OCS/SRS module.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1-3 hours
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