Faulty passenger seat recline position sensor (internal wear or open circuit); Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat, often from seat movement or cargo; Loose or corroded electrical connector at the sensor or under the seat; Seat recline mechanism mechanical binding or damage causing the sensor to read out of range; Failed occupant classification system module or restraint control module (less common); Aftermarket seat covers or objects interfering with seat movement and sensor linkage

DTC codes / B00xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B00C6

B00C6Passenger Seat Recline Position Restraints Sensor

Q: What does code B00C6 mean?

Passenger Seat Recline Position Restraints Sensor. B00C6 indicates that the Occupant Classification System (OCS) or restraint control module has detected an implausible or out-of-range signal from the passenger seat recline position sensor, which is used to determine the seat back angle for airbag deployment logic. The computer compares the sensor voltage against expected values for the current seat position and sets this code when the signal falls outside the valid range or fails a rationality check.

B00C6 indicates that the Occupant Classification System (OCS) or restraint control module has detected an implausible or out-of-range signal from the passenger seat recline position sensor, which is used to determine the seat back angle for airbag deployment logic. The computer compares the sensor voltage against expected values for the current seat position and sets this code when the signal falls outside the valid range or fails a rationality check.

SystemBody

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaAirbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems

Symptoms you may notice

Airbag warning light illuminated on the instrument cluster
Passenger airbag status indicator may show 'off' or 'disabled' even with an occupant present
Seat recline function may operate normally or feel stiff/jumpy if the sensor is mechanically bound
Intermittent warning light that appears when the seat back is moved through certain angles
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with no noticeable change in seat operation

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty passenger seat recline position sensor (internal wear or open circuit)
Damaged or chafed wiring harness under the seat, often from seat movement or cargo
Loose or corroded electrical connector at the sensor or under the seat
Seat recline mechanism mechanical binding or damage causing the sensor to read out of range
Failed occupant classification system module or restraint control module (less common)
Aftermarket seat covers or objects interfering with seat movement and sensor linkage

How to diagnose and fix it

Inspect the under-seat wiring and connectors for the passenger seat recline sensor for damage, corrosion, or loose pins; repair as needed.
Check the sensor linkage and seat recline mechanism for binding, debris, or mechanical damage that could force the sensor out of its normal range.
Use a scan tool to view live data from the passenger seat recline position sensor while slowly moving the seat back through its full range; look for smooth voltage changes without drops or spikes.
Perform a resistance check on the sensor circuit according to the manufacturer's specifications to confirm sensor integrity.
If the sensor signal is erratic or out of specification, replace the passenger seat recline position sensor and clear the code.
After repair, clear the code and perform a seat calibration or occupant detection system reset if required by the vehicle manufacturer.
Verify the repair by cycling the ignition and confirming the code does not return during a test drive that includes moving the seat through its range.

Why seat position sensors set airbag codes

The passenger seat recline position sensor is part of the Occupant Classification System (OCS), which determines airbag deployment force; a faulty reading can cause the airbag to be disabled or deploy with incorrect force.
A common misdiagnosis is replacing the seat sensor when the real problem is a chafed wire under the seat that only loses contact when the seat is moved to a specific position.
After any repair involving the seat or its wiring, the OCS often requires a calibration procedure with a scan tool; skipping this step can leave the code stored even with good components.
Seat covers, cargo, or aftermarket accessories that restrict seat movement can cause the sensor to read out of range and set B00C6 without any electrical fault.
This code can be set by a weak or failing battery if voltage drops during seat movement, so always check battery condition and charging system before condemning the sensor.

Can I keep driving with B00C6?

The vehicle remains safe to drive in most cases, but the passenger airbag may be disabled or deploy with reduced effectiveness, so avoid carrying a passenger in the front seat until the fault is repaired. Do not ignore the warning light, as the restraint system may not function optimally in a collision.

Tools that help

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