B0357 - Understanding DTC B0357: Common Issues in 2015-2018 Honda Accord and Other Models

Quick Answer

B0357 means: DTC B0357 indicates a fault in the driver's side airbag inflator circuit.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $300 - $800 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B0357? Immediate attention is necessary. Do not ignore the airbag warning light.

Common Questions

What does B0357 mean and how does it affect my car?

DTC B0357 refers to an issue with the driver's side airbag system. It indicates that if an accident occurs, the airbag may not deploy correctly, which can be dangerous. It's essential to have this checked immediately to ensure your safety.

What are the most common causes of B0357 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include a faulty airbag control module, damaged wiring, or poor connections. Repair costs can range from $100 for minor wiring repairs to $800 for module replacement.

Can I drive my car with B0357 or should I stop immediately?

It's advisable to stop driving your vehicle if the B0357 code is present, as this indicates a serious issue with the airbag system that could compromise your safety.

How can I diagnose B0357 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, connect to your vehicle’s OBD2 port, scan for codes, and review any related fault data. This will help you understand the context of the B0357 code.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0357?

Models like the 2015-2018 Honda Accord and several other vehicles that share similar airbag systems are frequently affected by this code.

How can I prevent B0357 from happening again?

Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking airbag system connections and avoiding aftermarket modifications, can help prevent future occurrences of DTC B0357.

What is B0357?

DTC B0357 signifies a malfunction related to the driver's side airbag system, specifically the inflator circuit. This code is triggered when the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system detects a problem with the circuit that controls the airbag deployment for the driver’s side. In practical terms, this means that if an accident occurs, the airbag may not deploy correctly, putting the driver at increased risk of injury. The causes of this code can range from a faulty airbag module to damaged wiring or connectors. It’s essential to address this code promptly. When the B0357 code appears, it typically illuminates the airbag warning light on the dashboard, indicating a potential safety issue. While the vehicle might still run smoothly, the compromised airbag system presents a significant risk during a collision, making it crucial for vehicle owners to understand the implications of this code and seek repairs as soon as possible. Common models that have reported this issue include the 2015 to 2018 Honda Accord, as well as several other vehicles equipped with similar airbag systems. Given the importance of the airbag system for passenger safety, resolving DTC B0357 should be a top priority for any vehicle owner.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0357 is present:

  • The airbag warning light on the dashboard remains illuminated, indicating a problem with the airbag system.
  • The vehicle may display error messages related to the airbag system, which can create confusion and concern for the driver.
  • The driver may experience hesitation or delays in the airbag deploying during a simulated crash, which can be tested using specialized diagnostic tools.
  • In some cases, the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics may trigger other related codes, complicating the situation.
  • Potential issues with the vehicle's electrical system may also arise, affecting other safety features.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0357 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of DTC B0357 is a faulty airbag control module, which accounts for about 40% of cases. This module coordinates the airbag system's operation.
  2. A short circuit or damaged wiring in the driver’s side airbag circuit is another typical cause, often leading to a loss of connectivity and malfunction.
  3. Corroded or loose connections at the airbag module can lead to intermittent faults, which may be prevented with regular vehicle inspections.
  4. Less common causes include software malfunctions in the vehicle’s onboard computer, which can sometimes be resolved with a simple software update.
  5. In rare cases, aftermarket modifications to the vehicle can disrupt the airbag system, leading to DTC B0357.

B0357 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Airbag Control Module Replacement

Replacing the faulty airbag control module to restore functionality.

  • Total: $300 - $800
  • Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors.

  • Total: $100 - $300
  • Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for B0357
  • 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 B0357 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0357. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the driver’s side airbag to check for damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the driver’s side airbag to check for damage or corrosion (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 perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve all diagnostic codes and freeze frame data for context (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve all diagnostic codes and freeze frame data for 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: Test the airbag control module and related circuits with a multimeter to identify specific failures (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Test the airbag control module and related circuits with a multimeter to identify specific failures (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: After repairs, conduct a system function test to ensure that the airbag system operates correctly and clear any stored codes (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: After repairs, conduct a system function test to ensure that the airbag system operates correctly and clear any stored codes (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: Perform a road test under various conditions to confirm that the airbag system is functioning as intended (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Perform a road test under various conditions to confirm that the airbag system is functioning as intended (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: Driver's Side Airbag Module Failure

Vehicle: 2016 Honda Accord, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard.

Diagnosis: Scanned for codes and confirmed B0357. Visual inspection revealed corroded connections at the airbag module.

Solution: Replaced the airbag control module and cleaned the connections.

Cost: $600 (parts: $500 for module, $100 for labor)

Result: Airbag system functioned normally post-repair, and warning light was cleared.

Case Study 2: Wiring Issue in Airbag Circuit

Vehicle: 2017 Honda Civic, 30,000 miles

Problem: Airbag warning light and intermittent deployment issues.

Diagnosis: Found damaged wiring harness leading to the airbag module.

Solution: Repaired the wiring and secured connections.

Cost: $200 (parts: $50 for wiring, $150 for labor)

Result: Resolved the issue, and airbag system functioned correctly.

Diagnose B0357

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

  • Real-time data monitoring
  • Advanced diagnostic features
  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
Download GeekOBD APP Get MOBD Adapter

Code Information

Code: B0357
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes