Quick Answer
B0079 means: B0079 indicates an airbag system malfunction related to the seat belt buckle sensor.
Can I drive with B0079? Immediate action is advised to ensure safety and system functionality.
Common Questions
What does B0079 mean and how does it affect my car?
The B0079 code indicates a malfunction in your car's airbag system, specifically related to the seat belt buckle sensor. This means that the system may not function properly in the event of an accident, potentially leaving you unprotected. It’s critical to address this issue promptly to ensure that your car's safety features are operational.
What are the most common causes of B0079 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common cause of the B0079 code is a faulty seat belt buckle sensor, which typically costs between $150 and $300 to replace. Other causes include damaged wiring and malfunctioning airbag control modules, which can vary in repair costs from $100 to $800 depending on the complexity of the issue.
Can I drive my car with B0079 or should I stop immediately?
It is not safe to drive a vehicle with the B0079 code present. The airbag system may not deploy in the event of an accident, increasing the risk of injury. It’s recommended to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose B0079 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose the B0079 error using the GeekOBD APP, connect the app to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Access the diagnostics feature to read the trouble codes and any freeze frame data. This will help you understand the context of the fault and assist in pinpointing the problem area.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0079?
The B0079 code is frequently found in vehicles like the 2012-2018 Honda Accord, Toyota Camry (2012-2017), and Ford Fusion (2013-2018). Always check for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to airbag systems in these models.
How can I prevent B0079 from happening again?
To prevent the B0079 code from recurring, regularly inspect your vehicle’s seat belt components and wiring for damage. Ensure that any repairs are performed correctly and keep your vehicle's software updated through manufacturer service intervals.
What is B0079?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B0079 indicates a malfunction related to the airbag system, specifically pointing to an issue with a seat belt buckle sensor. This code is commonly found in vehicles like the 2012-2018 Honda Accord, but it can also appear in various other makes and models. When this code is triggered, it signals that the airbag system has detected a fault that could impair its functionality. As a result, the airbag warning light may remain illuminated on your dashboard. This is a serious issue, as it means that in the event of a collision, the airbags may not deploy correctly, increasing the risk of injury. Real-world implications of this code involve not just potential safety hazards but also the need for immediate attention to ensure that all safety features in your vehicle are operational. Addressing the B0079 code typically requires professional diagnostics to pinpoint the exact cause which may involve inspecting the seat belt buckle, wiring, and the airbag control module. Ignoring this code could lead to costly repairs down the line and compromises your safety on the road.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B0079 is present:
- The airbag warning light remains illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a fault in the airbag system.
- You may notice that the seat belt warning chime sounds even when the seatbelt is buckled, suggesting a malfunction in the buckle sensor.
- In some cases, the vehicle's safety features, such as airbags, may fail to deploy during a collision, posing a significant risk.
- Drivers might experience difficulty in resetting the airbag light after repairs, which could indicate ongoing issues.
- The car may emit warning messages related to the airbag system on the dashboard display, alerting the driver to the fault.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B0079 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a faulty seat belt buckle sensor, which is responsible for detecting whether the seat belt is engaged, occurring in approximately 60% of cases.
- Another possible cause could be damaged wiring or connectors related to the airbag system, potentially due to wear and tear or corrosion over time.
- A malfunctioning airbag control module, while less common, can also trigger the B0079 code; it is crucial to ensure that this component is properly functioning to avoid future issues.
- Less frequently, issues could arise from software errors in the vehicle's onboard systems that may require a software update to resolve.
- Rarely, a complete failure of the airbag system itself can occur, necessitating a thorough inspection and possible replacement of airbag components.
B0079 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Seat Belt Buckle Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty seat belt buckle sensor that triggers the B0079 code.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repairs
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 75%
Airbag Control Module Replacement
Replacing a faulty airbag control module if diagnosed as the root cause.
- Total: $400 - $800
- Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for B0079
- 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 B0079 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0079. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the seat belt buckle and airbag components (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the seat belt buckle and airbag components (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context and history (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context and history (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the seat belt buckle sensor and inspect wiring for continuity and damage (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the seat belt buckle sensor and inspect wiring for continuity and damage (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the airbag system after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the airbag system after repairs and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the airbag system is functioning correctly and the warning light remains off (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the airbag system is functioning correctly and the warning light remains off (15-20 minutes).
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: Seat Belt Buckle Replacement on 2015 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2015 Honda Accord, Mileage: 70,000
Problem: Customer reported airbag warning light on and seat belt chime sounding intermittently.
Diagnosis: Performed OBD2 scan and retrieved B0079 code. Visual inspection revealed a faulty seat belt buckle sensor.
Solution: Replaced the seat belt buckle sensor and cleared the diagnostic codes.
Cost: $220 (sensor cost: $150, labor: $70)
Result: Airbag warning light turned off, and the system performed correctly during a follow-up test drive.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2016 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2016 Toyota Camry, Mileage: 50,000
Problem: Customer noticed airbag light was on and seat belt warning chime was malfunctioning.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis indicated a B0079 code with additional wiring issues found during inspection.
Solution: Repaired damaged wiring and connectors associated with the airbag system.
Cost: $180 (wiring repair: $100, labor: $80)
Result: After repairs, the airbag system was fully operational, and the warning light did not return.