Driver Frontal Airbag Circuit Resistance Low
What does B0016 mean?
The B0016 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Driver Frontal Airbag Circuit Resistance Low. This is a critical severity code.
Common Symptoms
- Airbag warning light illuminated
- SRS system fault active
- Driver airbag circuit low resistance detected
- Warning chime on startup
- Vehicle safety inspection failure
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Short circuit in driver airbag squib wiring Very High
- Damaged clockspring with shorted wires High
- Defective driver airbag module Moderate
- Pinched wiring in steering column area Moderate
- Water intrusion into airbag connector Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Scan SRS system for all codes
-
Measure driver airbag squib resistance and compare to specifications
-
Inspect clockspring for internal shorts
-
Check all wiring between SRS module and driver airbag for pinching
-
Inspect connectors for moisture or corrosion
Frequently Asked Questions
What does low resistance mean for an airbag circuit?
Low resistance indicates a short circuit in the airbag wiring, which could cause unintended airbag deployment or prevent proper deployment during a crash.
Could the airbag deploy unexpectedly?
While unlikely, a short circuit in the airbag squib circuit could theoretically cause unintended deployment. This is why the code is rated critical and driving is not recommended.
What is the normal resistance for an airbag squib?
Normal squib resistance typically ranges from 2 to 4 ohms, but always refer to your vehicle's service manual for the exact specification.