B0184 - DTC B0184 - Airbag Passenger Side Deployment Circuit Fault (Common in 2010-2015 Ford F-150 and 2011-2015 Chevrolet Silverado)

Quick Answer

B0184 means: B0184 indicates a fault in the passenger airbag deployment circuit, which may prevent the airbag from functioning properly.

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

Can I drive with B0184? Immediate attention is advised to ensure passenger safety.

Common Questions

What does B0184 mean and how does it affect my car?

B0184 indicates a fault in the passenger airbag deployment circuit, which may prevent the airbag from deploying in an accident. This could expose passengers to greater risk during collisions. It's crucial to diagnose and repair this issue promptly to ensure the safety of all vehicle occupants.

What are the most common causes of B0184 and how much does it cost to fix?

The most frequent causes of B0184 include a faulty passenger airbag sensor, damaged wiring, or loose connections. Repair costs can range from $100 to over $1,200, depending on whether you need to replace a sensor, repair wiring, or replace the airbag module.

Can I drive my car with B0184 or should I stop immediately?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the B0184 code present. The airbag may not deploy in the event of an accident, posing a significant safety risk. It's best to have your vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

How can I diagnose B0184 myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose B0184 using the GeekOBD APP, connect the device to your vehicle's OBD2 port. Retrieve the DTCs and freeze frame data, which will help you understand the context of the fault. You can also check for related codes that may provide further insights into the issue.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0184?

Common vehicles affected by DTC B0184 include the 2010-2015 Ford F-150 and the 2011-2015 Chevrolet Silverado. These models have known issues with the passenger airbag deployment circuit, so it's advisable to check for any recalls or technical service bulletins that may apply.

How can I prevent B0184 from happening again?

To prevent B0184 from recurring, routinely inspect the airbag system during maintenance checks. Ensure all wiring is intact and connections are secure. Additionally, avoid aftermarket modifications that could interfere with the airbag system, and consider regular software updates if applicable.

What is B0184?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B0184 indicates an issue with the passenger airbag deployment circuit. This code typically means that there is a malfunction in the wiring or components related to the passenger airbag system, which can prevent it from deploying correctly in the event of a collision. This can be a serious safety concern because it means that the airbag may not function as intended, leaving passengers vulnerable during an accident. The specific components that may be at fault include the wiring harness, the airbag module, or the airbag itself. Sometimes, the problem may stem from loose connections or corroded terminals, particularly in older vehicles. If you encounter this code, it's vital to address it promptly. Ignoring it could lead to increased risk in an accident, making this a high-severity issue that should be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. Additionally, some models may have specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to this code, so checking for those could provide further insights and potential fixes.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0184 is present:

The airbag warning light on the dashboard remains illuminated, indicating a malfunction in the airbag system.
You may notice that the passenger airbag does not deploy during a crash simulation, which could be tested by a professional.
Increased risk of injury during a collision due to the airbag system not functioning correctly.
Diagnostic tools may show other related codes, indicating further issues in the airbag system.
Unusual noises when turning the ignition on could suggest electrical faults in the airbag circuit.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0184 (ordered by frequency):

{'cause': 'Faulty passenger airbag sensor - 40% likelihood. This can occur due to wear and tear over time, especially in older vehicles.', 'details': 'The sensor detects whether a passenger is present and if the airbag should deploy.'}
{'cause': 'Damaged wiring harness - 30% likelihood. Exposed or corroded wires can disrupt the circuit and cause malfunctions.', 'details': 'Inspecting the wiring for damage is crucial, especially if the vehicle has been in an accident.'}
{'cause': 'Loose connections at the airbag module - 20% likelihood. Vibration and movement can cause connectors to come loose.', 'details': 'Making sure all connections are secure can prevent this issue.'}
{'cause': 'Defective airbag module - 5% likelihood. While rare, a malfunctioning module can cause failure in the deployment circuit.', 'details': 'Replacing the module can be costly but necessary for safety.'}
{'cause': "Software issues - 5% likelihood. Occasionally, the vehicle's onboard computer may have bugs that affect airbag functionality.", 'details': 'In such cases, a software update may resolve the issue.'}

B0184 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Sensor Replacement

Replacing a faulty passenger airbag sensor is often necessary to resolve DTC B0184.

Total: $150 - $400
Success rate: 85%

Wiring Repair

Repairing damaged wiring or connections can restore functionality to the airbag system.

Total: $100 - $300
Success rate: 90%

Airbag Module Replacement

In cases of module failure, replacing the airbag module is essential for safety.

Total: $500 - $1,200
Success rate: 95%

Money-Saving Tips for B0184

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 B0184 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0184. 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 (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).