B0017 and B0018 Codes: Right Front or Passenger Frontal Deployment Loop

These codes indicate a problem with the passenger frontal airbag deployment loop, which is part of the supplemental restraint system (SRS) or airbag system.

If you have a GMC, Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac, or Saturn vehicle, you may encounter the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B0017 and B0018. In this article, we will explain what these codes mean, what causes them, what symptoms they may produce, and how to fix them.

What are B0017 and B0018 Codes?

The passenger frontal airbag deployment loop consists of a dual stage inflatable restraint instrument panel (I/P) module, which is the airbag itself, and two control circuits for each stage: I/P module high control and I/P module low control. These circuits connect the I/P module to the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM), which is the main computer of the SRS. The SDM monitors the deployment loop for proper circuit continuity and for shorts to ground or voltage. If a malfunction is detected, the SDM will store a DTC in its memory and turn on the airbag warning light on the instrument cluster.

• The code B0017 means that the passenger frontal deployment loop is open, which means that there is a break or a disconnect in the circuit.
• The code B0018 means that the passenger frontal deployment loop voltage is out of range, which means that there is a short to ground or voltage in the circuit.

Both codes are for the single stage or stage 1 of the dual stage I/P module, which is the first stage of airbag inflation.

What Causes B0017 and B0018 Codes?

There are several possible causes for these codes, but they are usually related to one or more of the following components:

• Faulty inflatable restraint instrument panel (I/P) module
• Inflatable restraint instrument panel (I/P) module harness is open or shorted
• Inflatable restraint instrument panel (I/P) module circuit poor electrical connection
• Faulty sensing and diagnostic module (SDM)

Some of these causes may be due to physical damage, corrosion, wear and tear, or improper installation of the components. It is also possible that there may be other causes that are not listed here.

What Symptoms May B0017 and B0018 Codes Produce?

The most obvious symptom of these codes is the airbag warning light being illuminated on the instrument cluster. This means that the SRS is not functioning properly and that the passenger frontal airbag may not deploy in the event of a crash. This can pose a serious safety risk for the passenger and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Another possible symptom is that the SDM may disable other SRS components, such as seat belt pretensioners or side airbags, to prevent further damage or injury. This can also compromise the safety of the occupants in case of an accident.

In some cases, there may be no noticeable symptoms other than the stored codes and the warning light. However, this does not mean that the problem should be ignored, as it can worsen over time and cause more serious issues.

How to Fix B0017 and B0018 Codes?

To fix these codes, you will need to perform some diagnostic steps to identify and isolate the faulty component. You will also need some tools, such as a scan tool, a multimeter, and a wiring diagram of the SRS. Here are some general steps that you can follow:

1. Scan your vehicle with a scan tool and retrieve the stored codes and freeze frame data. Note down any other codes that may be related to the SRS system.
2. Clear the codes and test drive your vehicle to see if they come back. If they do not come back, it may indicate an intermittent problem that needs further investigation.
3. If they do come back, locate the inflatable restraint instrument panel (I/P) module and its connector under the dashboard on the passenger side. Inspect the connector for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose pins. Disconnect the connector and check for any shorting bars inside it. These are metal tabs that short together the control circuits when the connector is disconnected to prevent unwanted deployment of the airbag during servicing. If any of these shorting bars are missing or damaged, replace the connector.
4. Check the resistance of each control circuit between the I/P module connector and the SDM connector using a multimeter. Refer to your wiring diagram for the correct pin locations and specifications. The resistance should be within a specified range depending on your vehicle model and year. If it is too high or too low, it indicates an open or a short in the circuit. Trace and repair any wiring issues as needed.
5. Check for any voltage or ground on each control circuit using a multimeter with the ignition ON. There should be no voltage or ground present on these circuits. If there is, it indicates a short to voltage or ground in the circuit. Trace and repair any wiring issues as needed.
6. Check the resistance of the I/P module itself using a multimeter. Refer to your wiring diagram for the correct pin locations and specifications. The resistance should be within a specified range depending on your vehicle model and year. If it is too high or too low, it indicates a faulty I/P module. Replace the I/P module as needed.
7. Check the SDM for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose pins. If any of these are present, replace the SDM as needed.
8. Reconnect all the connectors and clear the codes. Test drive your vehicle and scan it again to see if the codes are gone. If they are, you have successfully fixed the problem. If they are not, you may need to perform further diagnosis or seek professional help.

Conclusion

B0017 and B0018 codes are common codes that can affect many GM vehicles with dual stage passenger frontal airbags. They indicate a problem with the deployment loop of the first stage of the airbag, which can compromise the safety of the passenger in case of a crash. To fix these codes, you need to diagnose and isolate the faulty component, which can be the I/P module, the wiring harness, the connector, or the SDM. You also need some tools and a wiring diagram to perform the tests. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to fix these codes yourself and restore the proper function of your SRS system. However, if you are not confident or experienced in working with airbag systems, you should always consult a qualified technician for assistance.

Don’t forget to share it