B0117 - Airbag Sensor Fault in Honda, Ford, and Toyota Vehicles

Quick Answer

B0117 means: B0117 indicates a fault in the airbag sensor circuit related to the driver's side airbag.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $400 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B0117? Immediate attention is required to ensure safety.

Common Questions

What does B0117 mean and how does it affect my car?

The B0117 code refers to an issue with the airbag sensor circuit, particularly concerning the driver's side. If this code appears, it means that your airbag system may not function correctly in the event of an accident, which could increase your risk of injury. Ignoring this code can lead to serious safety concerns, making it essential to diagnose and repair it promptly.

What are the most common causes of B0117 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of B0117 include a faulty airbag sensor, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning airbag control module. Repair costs vary based on the issue, typically ranging from $100 to $800, depending on whether you need a simple wiring repair or a full sensor replacement.

Can I drive my car with B0117 or should I stop immediately?

It's not safe to drive a vehicle with the B0117 code. The airbag may not deploy during an accident, putting you and your passengers at risk. It’s crucial to have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

How can I diagnose B0117 myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose B0117 using the GeekOBD APP, first connect the OBD2 scanner to your vehicle's port. Then, open the app and select the option to read codes. Once you retrieve the B0117 code, examine the freeze frame data to understand the conditions under which the code was triggered, and follow the diagnostic steps to pinpoint the issue.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0117?

The B0117 code frequently affects vehicles such as the 2000-2015 Honda Accord, 2001-2010 Ford Escape, and 2003-2011 Toyota Camry. If you own one of these models, it's advisable to stay vigilant for airbag system warnings.

How can I prevent B0117 from happening again?

Regular maintenance is key to preventing B0117. Ensure that your airbag system is inspected during routine service, keep the connectors clean and dry, and avoid modifications that might affect the airbag system's wiring.

What is B0117?

The B0117 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a malfunction in the airbag sensor circuit, specifically related to the driver's side airbag. This code is common in many vehicles, including popular makes like Honda, Ford, and Toyota, especially models produced between 2000 and 2015. When the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system detects a problem with the airbag sensor's functionality, it triggers the B0117 code and illuminates the airbag warning light on the dashboard. This could mean that the airbag may not deploy in the event of a collision, posing a serious safety risk. The airbag system relies on several components, including the airbag control module, wiring, and the airbag itself. A fault in any of these areas can lead to this code. Real-world implications include potential failure of the airbag to deploy, which can result in severe injuries during an accident. Therefore, it's crucial to address the B0117 code promptly to ensure the safety features of your vehicle are functioning correctly. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent this issue, but if the code appears, immediate diagnostics and repairs are recommended.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0117 is present:

  • The airbag warning light is illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a malfunction in the airbag system.
  • You might experience an unusual delay in airbag deployment, which can be critical in an accident.
  • There may be a noticeable decrease in overall vehicle safety features, as the system may shut down other safety features when a fault is detected.
  • The vehicle may exhibit no other performance issues, but the airbag system will remain inactive until the fault is fixed.
  • In some cases, you may hear a clicking or buzzing sound from the airbag control module, indicating a possible electrical issue.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0117 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of the B0117 code is a faulty airbag sensor, accounting for approximately 60% of cases. This often results from wear and tear or exposure to moisture.
  2. Another frequent cause is damaged wiring or poor connections in the airbag circuit, which can occur due to age or incorrect installations.
  3. A third cause is a malfunctioning airbag control module, which is the brain of the airbag system. Keeping it dry and protected can prevent this issue.
  4. Less commonly, a defective airbag itself can trigger this code, although this is rare and often requires replacement of the entire airbag assembly.
  5. In rare instances, software issues in the vehicle's control systems can lead to the B0117 code, requiring a software update or reprogramming to resolve.

B0117 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Airbag Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty airbag sensor with a new, OEM-quality part.

  • Total: $150 - $400
  • Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring in the airbag circuit.

  • Total: $100 - $250
  • Success rate: 85%
Airbag Control Module Replacement

Replacing a defective control module that manages airbag deployment.

  • Total: $300 - $800
  • Success rate: 95%
Money-Saving Tips for B0117
  • 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 B0117 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0117. 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 airbag sensor and its connectors (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the airbag sensor and its connectors (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: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the GeekOBD 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 GeekOBD APP to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context and history (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: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the airbag sensor and check for continuity in the wiring (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the airbag sensor and check for continuity in the wiring (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: System function test - After making repairs, verify proper operation by using the GeekOBD APP to check for any remaining codes and confirm that the airbag light turns off (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - After making repairs, verify proper operation by using the GeekOBD APP to check for any remaining codes and confirm that the airbag light turns off (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: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure that the airbag system functions properly during normal operation (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure that the airbag system functions properly during normal operation (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: Airbag Sensor Replacement on 2010 Honda Accord

Vehicle: 2010 Honda Accord, 85,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported an illuminated airbag warning light and received a B0117 code.

Diagnosis: After performing a visual inspection and using the GeekOBD APP, it was determined that the driver's side airbag sensor was faulty.

Solution: Replaced the airbag sensor and cleared the code. The airbag light was reset successfully.

Cost: $250 (sensor: $200, labor: $50)

Result: The airbag system functioned correctly post-repair, and the warning light remained off.

Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2008 Ford Escape

Vehicle: 2008 Ford Escape, 110,000 miles

Problem: Customer complained of the airbag warning light being on intermittently, with a B0117 code present.

Diagnosis: Inspection revealed damaged wiring leading to the airbag sensor due to corrosion.

Solution: Repaired the frayed wiring and secured it with electrical tape to prevent future issues.

Cost: $150 (labor: $100, materials: $50)

Result: The airbag warning light turned off, and the system was verified to be operational.

Diagnose B0117

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B0117
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes