B0255 - Understanding DTC B0255: Common in 2015-2018 Honda Accord and Toyota Camry

Quick Answer

B0255 means: B0255 indicates a malfunction in the seat belt pretensioner circuit, affecting your vehicle's safety system.

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

Can I drive with B0255? Address this issue immediately to ensure the safety features of your vehicle are operational.

Common Questions

What does B0255 mean and how does it affect my car?

B0255 signifies a fault in the seat belt pretensioner circuit. This issue can prevent the pretensioners from working correctly, compromising your safety. If this code appears, it’s crucial to address it promptly to ensure your airbags and seat belts function properly in the event of a collision.

What are the most common causes of B0255 and how much does it cost to fix?

The primary causes of B0255 include damaged wiring (50% chance), a faulty pretensioner (30%), and communication issues with the airbag module. Repair costs can range from $50 for wiring repairs to $400 for pretensioner replacement, depending on the specific issue.

Can I drive my car with B0255 or should I stop immediately?

Driving with a B0255 code is not recommended as it indicates a potential failure in your airbag system. You should have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible to avoid compromising your safety.

How can I diagnose B0255 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan your vehicle's OBD2 system to retrieve the B0255 code. The app will also provide freeze frame data, helping you understand the context of the error. Follow up with visual inspections and component testing as needed.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0255?

DTC B0255 is frequently seen in models like the 2015-2018 Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. If you own one of these vehicles, it's wise to be vigilant about any warning lights related to the seat belt or airbag systems.

How can I prevent B0255 from happening again?

Regular maintenance and inspections of your vehicle's safety systems can help prevent B0255. Ensure that wiring is intact and free from corrosion, and promptly address any warning lights that appear on your dashboard.

What is B0255?

DTC B0255 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a malfunction in the seat belt pretensioner circuit. This code specifically points to a fault in the driver or passenger side seat belt pretensioner, which is a critical component of the vehicle's safety system. When the vehicle detects a collision, the pretensioners tighten the seat belts to secure occupants in their seats, reducing their movement and potentially preventing injuries. If this code is triggered, it can lead to the airbag warning light being illuminated on the dashboard, indicating that the airbag system may not function as intended in an accident. Ignoring this code can compromise the effectiveness of the vehicle's safety features, putting occupants at risk. It’s essential to address this issue promptly, as the failure of the seat belt pretensioner can result in severe consequences during an accident. The underlying causes of B0255 can range from electrical issues, such as damaged wiring or poor connections, to component failures. In vehicles like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, this code is not uncommon, particularly in models manufactured between 2015 and 2018. Therefore, regular inspections of the seat belt system and timely attention to any alerts can help ensure your vehicle remains safe for you and your passengers.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0255 is present:

  • The airbag warning light stays on constantly, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system.
  • Seat belts may not retract properly, causing discomfort and reducing their effectiveness during a collision.
  • You may notice unusual clicking or popping sounds from the seat belt area when engaging or disengaging the seat belt.
  • Inconsistent seat belt tension, where the seat belt does not tighten adequately when pulled.
  • Diagnostic tools may reveal the B0255 code during an OBD2 scan, confirming the issue.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0255 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of B0255 is damaged wiring or connections in the seat belt pretensioner circuit, with a likelihood of about 50%. These can get frayed or disconnected due to wear and tear.
  2. A second cause could be a faulty seat belt pretensioner itself, which may fail due to internal component degradation. This has a likelihood of around 30%.
  3. A third cause may involve the airbag control module failing to communicate correctly with the pretensioners, which can often be prevented with regular diagnostics and maintenance.
  4. Less common but serious causes include a complete failure of the airbag system, which requires immediate professional inspection.
  5. Rarely, a software glitch in the vehicle's onboard computer could trigger the B0255 code without any hardware issues.

B0255 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Seat Belt Pretensioner Replacement

Replacing the faulty seat belt pretensioner could resolve the B0255 code effectively.

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

Repairing damaged wiring or connections in the pretensioner circuit.

  • Total: $50 - $150
  • Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for B0255
  • 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 B0255 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0255. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection - Check for any obvious signs of wear, such as damaged wiring or loose connections around the seat belt pretensioner (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection - Check for any obvious signs of wear, such as damaged wiring or loose connections around the seat belt pretensioner (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 scan the OBD2 system - Retrieve the B0255 code and any other related codes to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to scan the OBD2 system - Retrieve the B0255 code and any other related codes to understand the fault context (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: Conduct component testing - Use a multimeter to measure resistance and continuity in the pretensioner circuit, ensuring that components are functioning correctly (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Conduct component testing - Use a multimeter to measure resistance and continuity in the pretensioner circuit, ensuring that components are functioning correctly (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: Run a system function test - If repairs are made, verify the seat belt pretensioner operation and clear the codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: Run a system function test - If repairs are made, verify the seat belt pretensioner operation and clear the codes using the GeekOBD APP (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 - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the airbag system and seat belt pretensioners are working correctly (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Conduct a road test - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the airbag system and seat belt pretensioners are working correctly (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: 2016 Honda Accord Seat Belt Pretensioner Replacement

Vehicle: 2016 Honda Accord, 72,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported airbag light was illuminated.

Diagnosis: OBD2 scan revealed B0255 code; visual inspection showed damaged wiring.

Solution: Replaced the seat belt pretensioner and repaired wiring.

Cost: $350 (parts: $250, labor: $100)

Result: Airbag light cleared, and seat belt system functions properly.

Case Study 2: 2017 Toyota Camry Wiring Repair

Vehicle: 2017 Toyota Camry, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer noticed intermittent airbag warning light.

Diagnosis: B0255 code confirmed; inspection found loose connections.

Solution: Secured connections and cleaned terminals.

Cost: $100 (labor only)

Result: Warning light resolved, and system tested successfully.

Diagnose B0255

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: B0255
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes