B0079 medium Severity

B0079: Driver Seatbelt Pretensioner "B" Deployment Control (Subfault)

Does not directly affect engine performance but may disable or impair the airbag/safety restraint system functionality.

Overview

DTC B0079 indicates a fault in the driver seatbelt pretensioner B deployment control circuit, typically related to the buckle or associated wiring/sensor in the airbag/SRS system.

Common Symptoms

  • Airbag warning light illuminated
  • Seat belt warning light or chime may activate incorrectly
  • Possible inability of the seatbelt pretensioner to deploy in a crash

Most Common Causes

Faulty driver seatbelt buckle sensor or pretensioner circuit high

This is the most frequently reported root cause across multiple automotive diagnostic sources.

Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors in the pretensioner/SRS harness medium

Electrical issues can interrupt sensor communication with the control module.

Malfunctioning SRS/airbag control module medium

Less common but possible if module fails to interpret sensor data accurately.

Incorrect impact sensor installation low

Some generic databases suggest misinstalled SIS, but this is not widely confirmed.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Connect a professional-grade OBD-II scanner capable of reading body/SRS codes and confirm B0079.
    Expected: Code B0079 present with no additional unrelated codes.
    Interpretation: Confirms the seatbelt pretensioner B circuit fault.
  2. Perform visual inspection of the driver seatbelt buckle sensor and pretensioner harness.
    Expected: No corrosion, loose connectors, or damaged wiring.
    Interpretation: Damage here often causes signal faults.
  3. Measure continuity and resistance of the sensor circuit with a multimeter per manufacturer specs.
    Expected: Circuit continuity within expected range.
    Interpretation: Open or shorted circuits indicate wiring or sensor failure.
  4. If wiring and sensor test good, verify SRS control module communication and perform module diagnostics.
    Expected: Control module correctly interprets sensor status.
    Interpretation: Module faults may require reflash or replacement.

Repair Solutions

Replace faulty driver seatbelt buckle sensor medium
Estimated Cost: $150 - $300

Most common effective fix; ensures proper SRS warning resolution.

Repair or replace damaged wiring/connectors medium
Estimated Cost: $100 - $250

Cost varies with access and extent of damage.

Reprogram or replace SRS/airbag control module hard
Estimated Cost: $400 - $800

Required only when module diagnostics confirm internal fault.

Common Misdiagnoses

Avoid these common diagnostic mistakes:

  • Secondary air injection system faults (incorrect generic results from some non‑specialized sites)
  • Generic engine or powertrain codes unrelated to SRS

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a B0079 diagnostic trouble code signify?

When your OBD-II scanner reads B0079, it means: Driver Seatbelt Pretensioner "B" Deployment Control (Subfault). This code is related to the vehicle's Sensors.

Should I stop driving if I have B0079?

The B0079 code is considered medium severity. Does not directly affect engine performance but may disable or impair the airbag/safety restraint system functionality.

Symptoms associated with DTC B0079

Common symptoms include: Airbag warning light illuminated, Seat belt warning light or chime may activate incorrectly, Possible inability of the seatbelt pretensioner to deploy in a crash. You might also notice the Check Engine Light is on.

Why is my car throwing a B0079 code?

This code is frequently triggered by: Faulty driver seatbelt buckle sensor or pretensioner circuit, Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors in the pretensioner/SRS harness, Malfunctioning SRS/airbag control module.

Repair cost breakdown for B0079

Expect to pay around $250 if the issue is a Repair or replace damaged wiring/connectors, but up to $800 if the Reprogram or replace SRS/airbag control module needs replacement.

What cars are affected by the B0079 code?

The B0079 code is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to almost all makes and models, such as Honda, Toyota, VW, Ford, and Chevy.

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