B0137 - Airbag Sensor Circuit High Voltage - Common in 2011-2016 Ford F-150 and 2013-2018 Dodge Ram 1500

Quick Answer

B0137 means: B0137 indicates a high voltage in the airbag sensor circuit, which can prevent airbag deployment.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $100 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B0137? Immediate attention is required to ensure passenger safety.

Common Questions

What does B0137 mean and how does it affect my car?

B0137 indicates a high voltage issue in the airbag sensor circuit, which compromises the airbag system's functionality. If this code appears, it means your airbag may not deploy in an accident, putting you and your passengers at risk. Addressing this issue immediately is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety.

What are the most common causes of B0137 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of B0137 include damaged wiring (40%), faulty airbag sensors (30%), and corrosion (20%). Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $900 for control module replacement, depending on the issue's complexity.

Can I drive my car with B0137 or should I stop immediately?

It's unsafe to drive with the B0137 code active. The airbag system may not work during an accident, which poses a significant safety risk. It's best to address this issue as soon as possible.

How can I diagnose B0137 myself using GeekOBD APP?

With the GeekOBD APP, you can check for the B0137 code by scanning the OBD2 system. The app will provide you with detailed diagnostic trouble codes and freeze frame data to help pinpoint the issue.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0137?

B0137 is frequently reported in models like the 2011-2016 Ford F-150 and the 2013-2018 Dodge Ram 1500. Always check for any recalls or service bulletins related to the airbag system.

How can I prevent B0137 from happening again?

Regular maintenance of your vehicle's electrical system can prevent issues like B0137. Ensure connectors are clean, check for signs of wear on wiring, and consider having your airbag system inspected during routine service intervals.

What is B0137?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B0137 indicates a problem with the airbag system, specifically related to the passenger side airbag sensor. This code typically means that the airbag sensor circuit is registering a high voltage. In practical terms, this could mean that the airbag system might not deploy in the event of a crash, posing a serious safety risk. The airbag system plays a critical role in protecting occupants during a collision, and if the sensors are faulty, the entire system could fail. This issue can arise from various factors, including damaged wiring, corrosion, or a malfunctioning airbag module. If you're experiencing this code, it's essential to address it promptly. Ignoring it could not only lead to safety hazards but can also result in failing a vehicle inspection. Moreover, many insurance policies could be affected if the airbag system isn't functioning correctly, leading to potential liability and increased personal risk. Always consult with a qualified technician to evaluate and repair the airbag system if you encounter DTC B0137.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0137 is present:

  • The airbag warning light is illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a malfunction in the airbag system.
  • When the ignition is turned on, you may hear a warning chime related to the airbag system.
  • Additional warning lights may appear, such as the seatbelt indicator, signaling potential safety issues.
  • Inconsistent airbag deployment during tests, which might be noticed during inspections or diagnostics.
  • The vehicle may have difficulty passing safety inspections due to the airbag system's fault.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0137 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of DTC B0137 is damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, with a likelihood of around 40%. This can happen from wear and tear over time or due to an accident.
  2. A faulty airbag sensor itself could be the second most common cause, accounting for about 30%. This can result from manufacturing defects or exposure to moisture and heat.
  3. Corrosion in connectors or the airbag module is another potential cause, making up about 20%. Regular inspections can help prevent this by identifying issues before they escalate.
  4. Less common causes include a malfunctioning airbag control module, which can lead to complex issues in the airbag system.
  5. In rare cases, a software glitch in the vehicle's computer system may result in false readings, leading to the B0137 code.

B0137 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Repair

Replacing damaged wiring and connectors in the airbag system.

  • Total: $100 - $300
  • Success rate: 80%
Sensor Replacement

Replacing a faulty airbag sensor that has triggered the B0137 code.

  • Total: $150 - $450
  • Success rate: 85%
Control Module Replacement

Replacing the airbag control module if it is found to be faulty.

  • Total: $300 - $900
  • Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for B0137
  • 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 B0137 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0137. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for any visible damage to the airbag wiring, connectors, or the airbag module itself

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for any visible damage to the airbag wiring, connectors, or the airbag module itself. Look for signs of corrosion or fraying (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 app to retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context better (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context better (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 voltage and resistance of the airbag sensor and the associated wiring (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the voltage and resistance of the airbag sensor and the associated 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 potential repairs, verify the airbag system's operation and clear the codes to see if they return (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - After potential repairs, verify the airbag system's operation and clear the codes to see if they return (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 - Conduct a road test under various conditions to ensure the airbag system is functioning correctly and no warning lights reappear (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Conduct a road test under various conditions to ensure the airbag system is functioning correctly and no warning lights reappear (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: 2008 Ford F-150 Airbag Sensor Replacement

Vehicle: 2008 Ford F-150, 120,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported airbag warning light was on and failed inspection.

Diagnosis: OBD2 scan revealed code B0137, and visual inspection showed damaged sensor wiring.

Solution: Replaced the damaged wiring and the airbag sensor.

Cost: $350 (including labor and parts)

Result: The warning light was cleared, and the vehicle passed inspection successfully.

Case Study 2: 2015 Dodge Ram 1500 Airbag Control Module Issue

Vehicle: 2015 Dodge Ram 1500, 80,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced intermittent airbag light and safety concerns.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis pointed to B0137, with testing revealing a faulty control module.

Solution: Replaced the airbag control module and performed a system reset.

Cost: $650 (specific cost breakdown included parts and labor)

Result: The airbag system was restored to full functionality, ensuring safety.

Diagnose B0137

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B0137
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes