Passenger Occupant Detection Child Seat Detection Error
The B0233 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Passenger Occupant Detection Child Seat Detection Error. This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $300 - $1200 (parts and labor)
Basic scanners skip body codes entirely. BlueDriver reads airbag, HVAC, lighting, and BCM codes through your phone.
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Common Symptoms
- Passenger occupant sensor reading incorrect
- Airbag deployment mode may be wrong
- SRS warning light on
- Passenger airbag status indicator active
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Faulty passenger occupant sensor mat Very High
- Damaged sensor wiring under passenger seat High
- Occupant classification module failure Moderate
- Seat cushion degradation affecting sensor Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Scan SRS module for passenger occupant data
-
Check passenger seat sensor connector
-
Test sensor mat resistance values
-
Inspect seat cushion for damage
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the occupant detection sensor?
A pressure-sensitive mat in the seat cushion that determines occupant presence and weight for airbag deployment control.
Why is this important?
It ensures airbags deploy at correct force for the occupant size, protecting both adults and children.
Is this covered under recall?
Several manufacturers have recalls for these sensors. Check NHTSA.gov with your VIN.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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