B094E - Understanding and Fixing the B094E Code in 2015-2018 Honda Accord and Other Models

Quick Answer

B094E means: B094E indicates an issue with the seat belt tensioner circuit, potentially affecting airbag deployment.

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

Can I drive with B094E? Immediate attention is advised to ensure passenger safety.

Common Questions

What does B094E mean and how does it affect my car?

The B094E code indicates an issue with the seat belt tensioner circuit, which can affect airbag deployment in an accident. This can lead to increased risk for passengers, making it critical to address the issue promptly.

What are the most common causes of B094E and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of B094E include damaged wiring (40% likelihood) and faulty seat belt tensioners. Repair costs typically range from $100 for wiring to $500 for a seat belt tensioner replacement.

Can I drive my car with B094E or should I stop immediately?

It's not advisable to drive with the B094E code present, as it indicates potential failure of critical safety systems. Immediate inspection is recommended to ensure passenger safety.

How can I diagnose B094E myself using GeekOBD APP?

To diagnose B094E using GeekOBD APP, connect the app to your vehicle's OBD2 port, run a scan to pull codes, and review the freeze frame data for context. Look for any wiring issues or component faults indicated in the scan.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B094E?

B094E is commonly found in 2015-2018 Honda Accord, but it can also affect other models equipped with similar safety features. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent this issue.

How can I prevent B094E from happening again?

To prevent B094E, regularly inspect seat belt components and wiring for wear or damage, and ensure good ground connections. Routine professional inspections can help catch issues early.

What is B094E?

DTC B094E refers to a fault in the vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM), specifically indicating 'Seat Belt Tensioner Circuit Open.' This diagnostic trouble code typically appears in vehicles equipped with advanced safety features, including 2015-2018 Honda Accord and similar models. When the BCM detects an issue with the seat belt tensioner circuit, it can trigger the airbag warning light and disable certain safety features. This code often indicates that the tensioner may not deploy correctly in the event of a collision, jeopardizing passenger safety. Drivers might notice symptoms like the seat belt light illuminating on the dashboard or the airbag light remaining on. Addressing this code is crucial not only for compliance with safety regulations but also for ensuring that your vehicle's safety systems function correctly. Ignoring B094E could lead to costly safety issues in the event of an accident. It's recommended to have the vehicle diagnosed by a professional technician familiar with the specific vehicle make and model to determine the exact nature of the problem and necessary repairs.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B094E is present:

  • The airbag warning light stays on constantly, indicating a malfunction in the safety system.
  • You may experience a warning chime when starting the vehicle, alerting you to a safety issue.
  • The seat belt light illuminates, suggesting that the tensioner may not be functioning properly.
  • Check engine light may also appear as the vehicle's onboard diagnostics monitor the safety systems.
  • Increased resistance felt when pulling the seat belt, indicating a possible failure of the tensioning mechanism.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B094E (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of B094E is a damaged or corroded wiring harness leading to the seat belt tensioner, with a likelihood of 40%. Inspecting and repairing any visible wiring issues may resolve the code.
  2. A second potential cause is a faulty seat belt tensioner itself, which may fail to provide the necessary tension during a crash. This can happen due to wear and tear or manufacturing defects.
  3. Thirdly, a poor ground connection within the BCM can lead to erroneous readings, increasing the chance of a false code. Ensure all ground points are clean and secure.
  4. Less commonly, a malfunctioning BCM can trigger this code. This is a serious issue that may require replacement of the entire module.
  5. Rarely, an electrical short in the vehicle's wiring can affect multiple systems, including the seat belt tensioner circuit, leading to this code.

B094E Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wiring Repair

Repair or replace damaged wiring harness related to the seat belt tensioner.

  • Total: $100 - $300
  • Success rate: 80%
Seat Belt Tensioner Replacement

Replace the faulty seat belt tensioner assembly.

  • Total: $200 - $500
  • Success rate: 90%
BCM Replacement

In cases where the BCM is defective, replacing the module may be necessary.

  • Total: $400 - $800
  • Success rate: 95%
Money-Saving Tips for B094E
  • 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 B094E Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B094E. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection to identify obvious signs of wiring damage, loose connectors, or corrosion, which should take about 5-10 minutes

Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection to identify obvious signs of wiring damage, loose connectors, or corrosion, which should take about 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 and retrieve all existing codes along with freeze frame data to understand the context of the fault

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan and retrieve all existing codes along with freeze frame data to understand the context of the fault. This step can take about 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: Proceed to component testing using a multimeter to check voltage and resistance at the seat belt tensioner

Step 3: Proceed to component testing using a multimeter to check voltage and resistance at the seat belt tensioner. This step typically requires 20-30 minutes depending on findings.

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 verify the proper operation of the seat belt tensioner and clear any stored codes, which takes roughly 10-15 minutes

Step 4: After repairs, conduct a system function test to verify the proper operation of the seat belt tensioner and clear any stored codes, which takes roughly 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: Finally, perform a road test to ensure that all systems are functioning correctly under various driving conditions

Step 5: Finally, perform a road test to ensure that all systems are functioning correctly under various driving conditions. This may take 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: Honda Accord B094E Repair Case Study

Vehicle: 2017 Honda Accord, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported airbag light and seat belt warning light illuminated.

Diagnosis: Using the GeekOBD APP, the technician retrieved a B094E code. A visual inspection revealed damaged wiring in the tensioner circuit.

Solution: Wiring was repaired, and the seat belt tensioner was tested for proper operation.

Cost: $150 for wiring repair

Result: Lights cleared and system function was restored. Customer satisfied with the timely repair.

Case Study 2: Seat Belt Tensioner Replacement on a 2016 Honda Civic

Vehicle: 2016 Honda Civic, 60,000 miles

Problem: Customer complained of persistent B094E code and airbag warning light.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic steps confirmed the seat belt tensioner was faulty and required replacement.

Solution: Replaced the seat belt tensioner assembly with a new OEM part.

Cost: $400 (part and labor)

Result: System restored to normal operation with no warning lights present post-repair.

Diagnose B094E

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

  • Real-time data monitoring
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  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B094E
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes