Home / DTC / B29C5 — Airbag System: Occupant Classification Sensor Communication Fault

B29C5 — Airbag System: Occupant Classification Sensor Communication Fault

Detailed page for trouble code B29C5.

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Code

B29C5

Generic B — Body

Airbag System: Occupant Classification Sensor Communication Fault

Brand: Generic
Type: B — Body
AI status
Completed
ready
Completed 100%
Page language: EN

Causes

  • Broken/open or shorted wiring between occupant classification sensor and SRS control unit
  • Corroded, loose or damaged connector at the seat sensor/module
  • Failed occupant classification sensor (seat pad module)
  • Faulty SRS control module or intermediate gateway module
  • Software/configuration mismatch or missing calibration after repair
  • Water intrusion or mechanical damage to seat sensor or harness

Symptoms

  • SRS/airbag warning lamp ON (steady)
  • Passenger airbag disable/enable indicator may be incorrect or not operate
  • Possible loss of passenger-side airbag decision logic (passenger airbag may be disabled)
  • Stored DTC(s) related to seat/occupant sensor communication
  • In some vehicles, seatbelt reminder or other safety subsystems may show faults

What to check

  • Connect a capable OBD scan tool; read DTCs and freeze-frame data
  • Check for additional SRS and network (U-code) faults that indicate bus problems
  • Visually inspect seat area, covers and connectors for moisture, damage or loose clips
  • With ignition ON (follow OEM SRS safety procedures), verify sensor connector pins for bent/corroded terminals
  • Check for proper power and ground at the sensor connector per factory data
  • Perform wiggle test of seat wiring while observing live data/communication status

Signal parameters

  • Sensor supply voltage — typically 5 V reference (verify with OEM spec)
  • Ground continuity between sensor and vehicle chassis ground
  • Signal/communication: CAN bus idle ~2.5 V per line (differential communication) or LIN/serial per OEM (verify protocol)
  • Expected presence of periodic CAN/LIN messages from occupant sensor when ignition ON
  • Open/short to battery or ground will show 0 V or battery voltage on signal lines (consult factory values)
  • Typical communication error codes/timeouts as reported by SRS module (see service manual)

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Safety first: follow manufacturer SRS procedures (disable SRS power if required) before servicing seat or connectors
  2. Read and record all stored DTCs and freeze-frame data with a bidirectional scan tool. Note if fault is permanent or pending.
  3. Clear codes and attempt to reproduce. If B29C5 returns, continue diagnostics.
  4. Visually inspect seat, occupant-sensor area, connector(s) and harness routing for physical damage or contamination.
  5. With connector disconnected, inspect terminals for corrosion, deformation or contamination. Repair or replace connector as needed.
  6. With ignition ON and using appropriate safety procedures, verify supply voltage and ground at the sensor connector against OEM values.
  7. Check communication lines (CAN/LIN) for correct idle voltage and signals using a multimeter or oscilloscope. Look for missing messages or noise.
  8. Perform continuity/resistance checks between the sensor connector and SRS module; repair any open/short circuits.
  9. If wiring and connectors test good, attempt substitution with a known-good occupant classification sensor or module if available.
  10. Check for required software updates or calibrations; perform sensor/seat calibration per factory procedure after replacement/repair.
  11. After repair, clear codes, re-enable SRS, and verify normal operation and that the SRS warning lamp stays off.
  12. If at any point airbag system repairs are performed, follow all safety and disposal rules for pyrotechnic devices and modules.

Likely causes

  • Seat wiring harness chafed or pinched under the seat
  • Connector terminals pushed out, bent or corroded (often at seat track area)
  • Occupant classification sensor electronics failed from moisture/impact
  • Aftermarket seat/heated seat retrofit changed wiring or connectors
  • Control module lost configuration after battery disconnect or replacement

Fault status

⚠️ Status
SRS control unit reports no/invalid communication from occupant classification sensor/module — passenger-seat classification unavailable.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0-2.5 hours

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