B002C - Airbag Sensor Malfunction on Popular Models Like 2013-2017 Ford Fusion and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado

Quick Answer

B002C means: B002C indicates a problem with the passenger airbag sensor or its circuit.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B002C? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure passenger safety.

Common Questions

What does B002C mean and how does it affect my car?

DTC B002C indicates a malfunction in the passenger airbag system, specifically related to the sensor or its circuit. This affects the airbag's ability to deploy properly in the event of a crash, posing a significant safety risk. If you see this code, it's crucial to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to ensure the safety systems are operational.

What are the most common causes of B002C and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of B002C include a faulty passenger airbag sensor, wiring issues, and corrosion in connectors. Repair costs can range from $100 to $600 depending on the specific issue, with sensor replacements typically costing between $150 and $300.

Can I drive my car with B002C or should I stop immediately?

Driving with DTC B002C is not recommended as it indicates a potential failure of the airbag system. If the airbag does not deploy in an accident, passengers are at a higher risk of injury. It's advisable to address this issue promptly.

How can I diagnose B002C myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose B002C using the GeekOBD APP, connect the app to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Use the app to scan for trouble codes and review freeze frame data to understand the context of the error. This will help you identify the specific issue and guide you in making repairs.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B002C?

B002C is frequently reported in models like the 2013-2017 Ford Fusion and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado. If you own one of these vehicles, it’s essential to be aware of this code and monitor for any symptoms.

How can I prevent B002C from happening again?

To prevent B002C from recurring, ensure regular maintenance checks of the airbag system, including inspecting wiring and connectors for corrosion or damage. Avoid modifying the vehicle's electrical systems, and consider professional inspections if you've been involved in any accidents.

What is B002C?

DTC B002C is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a malfunction in the airbag system related to the passenger side. Specifically, it points to a problem with the passenger airbag sensor or its circuit, which can prevent the airbag from deploying correctly in the event of a collision. This code commonly appears in vehicles like the 2013-2017 Ford Fusion and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado. The airbag system is critical for passenger safety, and when this code is triggered, it means that the system may not function as intended. This can lead to serious safety risks, as the airbag may not deploy during an accident, increasing the likelihood of injury. Furthermore, the check airbag light will likely remain illuminated, indicating to the driver that the system requires attention. Ignoring this code can lead to costly repairs down the line, as unresolved issues can damage other components of the vehicle's safety systems. Therefore, it's essential to address the issue promptly to ensure the safety of all passengers.

System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B002C is present:

  • The airbag warning light stays illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a malfunction within the airbag system.
  • The passenger airbag may not deploy in the event of an accident, which poses a significant safety risk.
  • You may notice intermittent issues with the seatbelt sensor system, leading to incorrect readings during operation.
  • In some cases, you might experience electrical issues, such as flickering dashboard lights or malfunctioning interior electronics.
  • Frequent vehicle electrical system resets may occur, causing the system to lose power temporarily.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B002C (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of DTC B002C is a faulty passenger airbag sensor, which accounts for approximately 60% of cases. This could be due to wear and tear or physical damage from an accident.
  2. Another common cause is a short circuit in the wiring harness connected to the airbag sensor. This could occur from exposure to moisture or damage during maintenance, leading to a malfunction.
  3. Corrosion in electrical connectors can also lead to this code being triggered. Regular maintenance can help prevent this issue by checking connections and cleaning them as necessary.
  4. Less common but serious causes include a faulty airbag control module, which is critical for the airbag system's operation and can lead to complete failure if not addressed.
  5. A rare cause could be a software glitch in the vehicle's onboard computer, requiring a software update or reprogramming to resolve.

B002C Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Passenger Airbag Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty passenger airbag sensor is a common solution for DTC B002C.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 85%
Wiring Harness Repair

Repairing damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 90%
Airbag Control Module Replacement

In some cases, replacing the airbag control module may be necessary, especially if other repairs do not resolve the issue.

  • Total: $300 - $600
  • Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for B002C
  • Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
  • Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
  • Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
  • Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
  • Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage

Diagnostic Steps

Professional B002C Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B002C. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the airbag sensor, wiring, and connectors for any visible damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the airbag sensor, wiring, and connectors for any visible damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve all existing codes and freeze frame data, providing context for the issue (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve all existing codes and freeze frame data, providing context for the issue (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Test the passenger airbag sensor and the associated wiring using a multimeter or specialized automotive diagnostic tools (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Test the passenger airbag sensor and the associated wiring using a multimeter or specialized automotive diagnostic tools (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: Perform a system function test to ensure that all components are working correctly after any repairs are made, and clear the error codes (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: Perform a system function test to ensure that all components are working correctly after any repairs are made, and clear the error codes (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Conduct a road test to verify that the airbag system is functioning properly under various driving conditions (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Conduct a road test to verify that the airbag system is functioning properly under various driving conditions (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

Important Notes

  • Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
  • Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
  • Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence

Real Repair Case Studies

Case Study 1: Passenger Airbag Sensor Replacement on 2015 Ford Fusion

Vehicle: 2015 Ford Fusion, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported airbag light illuminated and received a B002C code.

Diagnosis: After running diagnostics with the GeekOBD APP, the airbag sensor was found to be faulty.

Solution: Replaced the passenger airbag sensor and performed a system reset.

Cost: $250 (parts $150, labor $100)

Result: Airbag system operated correctly after repair, and warning light was cleared.

Case Study 2: Wiring Harness Repair on 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Silverado, 70,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced intermittent airbag warning light and DTC B002C.

Diagnosis: Visual inspection revealed a damaged wiring harness connected to the airbag sensor.

Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and reconnected the sensors properly.

Cost: $180 (parts $50, labor $130)

Result: The issue was resolved, and airbag functionality was restored.

Diagnose B002C

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

  • Real-time data monitoring
  • Advanced diagnostic features
  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B002C
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes