01 This Is Why It’s Almost Impossible To Sink A Modern Cruise … • 02 The Consequences of Engaging Reverse Gear While Moving Forw… • 03 The Role of Vacuum Pipes in Engine Functionality: A Compreh… • 04 People Left Horrified After Discovering Why Airbags Sometim… • 05 The Evolution of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR): Reducing … • 06 Tire Bubbles: Understanding the Dangers and How to Address … • 07 When Reconnecting The Battery, Which Terminal is Connected … • 08 Could a Railgun Launch a Satellite into Orbit? • 09 Engine Rattles When Accelerating? Diagnose the Cause Yourse… • 10 Engineering Safety Matters: Promoting a Culture of Safety i… •

DTC codes / B00xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B00F3

B00F3Second Row Center Inflatable Seat Belt Deployment Control

B00F3 indicates that the restraint control module (RCM) has detected a fault in the deployment circuit for the second row center inflatable seat belt, which is a seat belt with a built-in airbag. The module monitors the circuit's resistance and continuity and sets this code when the readings fall outside the expected range, disabling that belt's deployment function.

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

Symptoms you may notice

  • The airbag or supplemental restraint system (SRS) warning light is illuminated on the dashboard.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with the belt functioning normally as a passive restraint.
  • The second row center inflatable seat belt may not deploy in a collision, reducing occupant protection.
  • A stored trouble code may be the only clue, with no noticeable change in vehicle behavior.
  • In some cases, the seat belt buckle or retractor may feel loose or not latch smoothly if the fault involves the connector.
  • Other restraint system codes may be present if the fault affects shared wiring or the RCM.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. A damaged or disconnected electrical connector at the inflatable seat belt module or under the seat.
  2. Corroded or chafed wiring in the seat belt deployment circuit, often due to seat movement or spills.
  3. A failed inflatable seat belt module (the belt's integrated airbag initiator) with an open or shorted circuit.
  4. A faulty restraint control module (RCM) that misreads the circuit resistance.
  5. Water intrusion or physical damage to the seat belt assembly from cargo or child seats.
  6. Improper previous repair or aftermarket accessory installation affecting the circuit.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Inspect the seat belt buckle, retractor, and under-seat connectors for loose pins, corrosion, or damage.
  2. Disconnect the battery and wait for the system to discharge, then check the resistance of the inflatable seat belt circuit with a digital multimeter (DMM).
  3. Perform a wiggle test on the wiring harness while monitoring resistance to identify intermittent faults.
  4. Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) or recall notices specific to the vehicle make and model regarding the inflatable seat belt circuit.
  5. If the circuit tests within specification, substitute a known-good inflatable seat belt module to see if the code clears.
  6. If the module is not the cause, test the RCM and its connectors for proper voltage and ground.
  7. Clear the code and verify the repair with a scan tool, ensuring the SRS light extinguishes and no codes return.

Inflatable seat belt faults often misdiagnosed

  • A common mistake is replacing the inflatable seat belt module without first checking the under-seat connector, which often works loose when the seat is moved or cargo is loaded.
  • The code can be set by a low battery or voltage spike during starting, so always check the battery and charging system before condemning parts.
  • After any repair, the RCM may require a relearn or calibration procedure, and some vehicles need a scan tool to clear the code and reset the SRS light.
  • Inflatable seat belts are part of the SRS and should only be serviced by trained technicians; improper handling can cause accidental deployment.
  • This code does not always mean the belt is defective; wiring harness chafing near seat tracks or door sills is a frequent hidden cause.

Can I keep driving with B00F3?

The vehicle is safe to drive because the seat belt still works as a conventional restraint, but the inflatable function is disabled, so avoid carrying a passenger in the second row center seat until repaired. Have the system diagnosed promptly to restore full crash protection.

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.

Running on fumes Free guides aren't free to make. Top up the tank. Any amount, one time. Fuel the Garage