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DTC codes / B00xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B0038

B0038Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control

B0038 indicates that the airbag control module has detected a fault in the deployment circuit for the second row right side airbag, which is the inflator or side airbag mounted on the passenger side of the rear seat. The module monitors the circuit resistance and continuity and sets this code when the readings fall outside the expected range, meaning the airbag may not deploy correctly in a crash.

SystemBody
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyProfessional
AreaAirbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems

Symptoms you may notice

  • Airbag warning light illuminated on the instrument cluster
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with no change in vehicle drivability
  • Passenger-side rear airbag may be disabled by the system as a protective measure
  • In some vehicles, a message on the driver information center stating the rear airbag system needs service
  • No other electrical or performance issues noticed by the driver

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Damaged or disconnected wiring harness at the second row right side airbag connector
  2. Faulty side airbag inflator module with an open or shorted squib
  3. Corroded or loose electrical connector pins at the airbag or control module
  4. Water intrusion or physical damage to the airbag circuit from a spill or seat movement
  5. Failed airbag control module (less common but possible)
  6. Aftermarket accessories or seat covers that interfere with the airbag wiring

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Inspect the second row right side airbag connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose pins
  2. Disconnect the battery and wait the recommended time, then check circuit resistance at the airbag connector with a multimeter
  3. Check for continuity and shorts to ground or power on the wiring between the airbag and the control module
  4. If the wiring checks out, substitute a known-good airbag inflator or use a simulator to see if the code clears
  5. Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors, then clear the code and verify it does not return
  6. If the fault persists after wiring and airbag checks, diagnose or replace the airbag control module
  7. Perform a full system scan to ensure no other airbag codes are present and confirm proper operation

Before you replace the rear airbag

  • A common mistake is replacing the airbag when the real problem is a chafed wire under the rear seat or a connector that was disturbed during cleaning.
  • The code can be set by a momentary loss of connection, so always check for intermittent faults by wiggling the harness while monitoring resistance.
  • After any airbag repair, the system must be cleared with a scan tool; simply disconnecting the battery will not turn off the light on most vehicles.
  • Seat covers or cargo that presses on the rear seat can damage the airbag wiring and set this code, so inspect for aftermarket accessories.
  • Never use a standard ohmmeter to probe an airbag squib directly; use the proper tester or simulate the circuit to avoid accidental deployment.

Can I keep driving with B0038?

The vehicle is safe to drive because the airbag system is designed to disable the affected circuit, but the second row right side airbag may not deploy in a collision. Have the fault diagnosed promptly and avoid carrying passengers in that seat until repaired.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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