B14C1

Code

Generic B — Body

Side Airbag Sensor Circuit Fault

Brand: Generic

Type: B — Body

Views: UK: 13 EN: 17 RU: 13

AI status

Completed

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Page language: EN

Causes

Broken or damaged wiring harness between sensor and SRS module
Corroded or loose connector or terminal at sensor or module
Short to battery or ground on sensor signal or supply circuit
Faulty side impact/airbag sensor
Faulty SRS control module or internal module connector
Aftermarket repairs or collision damage not corrected properly

Symptoms

SRS/Airbag warning lamp illuminated on the dash
Possible inability to clear the DTC with a scanner
Stored related crash data or other SRS codes present
In some vehicles, deactivation of side airbag deployment or related safety features

What to check

Follow SRS safety procedure: disconnect battery negative and wait manufacturer-specified time before handling SRS components
Scan SRS control module for all stored codes and freeze-frame data; record readings
Visually inspect wiring and connectors at the indicated side sensor and SRS module for damage, corrosion, or disconnection
Check harness routing for chafing, pinched spots, or signs of previous repairs/collision damage
Backprobe connector pins (after following safety steps) to verify reference voltage, ground, and signal
Use a chassis wiring diagram to identify pinout and measure continuity and resistance between sensor and module

Signal parameters

Reference supply: typically ~5 V (some designs use module reference; consult vehicle wiring diagram)
Sensor idle output: typically ~half reference (~2.5 V) for analog accelerometer sensors; may vary by model
Open circuit: infinite resistance between sensor signal pin and module
Short to ground: near 0 V at signal pin
Short to battery: near battery voltage (~12 V) at signal pin
Digital sensors may report status over CAN/LIN — expect valid message present on bus when healthy

Diagnostic algorithm

Safety: Disable SRS per manufacturer procedure (disconnect battery negative, wait specified time). Use appropriate PPE.
Read and record SRS codes and live data with a capable scan tool. Note which side (left/right) the code references, if provided.
Visually inspect sensor(s), mounting, and harness along route to the module. Look for corrosion, water ingress, impact damage, or aftermarket splices.
Reconnect battery (if required to power sensors) and with the scanner monitoring live data, backprobe sensor connector: verify reference voltage, signal voltage, and ground. Compare to expected values.
If signal is out-of-range, disconnect the sensor and check for continuity/shorts from the sensor harness pins to battery and ground. Repair any short or open.
Wiggle test harness and connectors while watching live data and code status to find intermittent faults.
If harness and connectors are good but signal abnormal, remove and bench-test or replace the sensor. Some sensors require specific orientation/calibration procedures.
After repair or replacement, clear codes and perform specific SRS system checks/calibrations per manufacturer (some vehicles require module reprogramming or sensor calibration).
Verify the SRS lamp extinguishes and perform a final road test if required by service information.
Document repairs and retest to ensure no new SRS faults are present.

Likely causes

Connector corrosion or loose pin at the side impact sensor
Open or shorted signal/supply wire in seat/door area where sensors are commonly mounted
Failed sensor from impact, age, or moisture intrusion
Module communication fault or internal module fault after previous repairs

Fault status

⚠️ Status

SRS control module reports a fault in the side airbag/side impact sensor circuit (open, short, or out-of-range signal). Airbag warning lamp illuminated. Repair required following SRS safety procedures.

🔴 Repair difficulty: Hard

⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0-3.0 hours