What Does Engine Code B0022 Mean?

Engine code B0022 could indicate a problem with your car's airbag system, which is a critical issue to address.
Written by Brenna Swanston
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
background
If your car shows engine code B0022, you may be at risk of your airbag deploying when it's unnecessary. This can be extremely dangerous, so make sure to look into and fix this engine code to make sure you stay safe behind the wheel.
If your car is experiencing a malfunction of some kind, a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) can help you identify the problem. Each DTC indicates a different potential issue. When your airbag warning light comes on, an
OBD-II code reader
can help you identify the DTC and start finding a solution.
If you see a DTC of B0022, it's important to get to the root of the problem. Fortunately,
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What does the engine code B0022 mean?

Definition: Driver frontal deployment loop single stage or stage one resistance low
The driver deployment loop helps prevent unwanted inflation of your car's airbag. This mechanism is made up of four components:
  • A two-stage inflatable restraint steering wheel module
  • An inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil
  • Steering wheel module high circuits for stages one and two
  • Steering wheel module low circuits for stages one and two
The steering wheel module coil connector includes two shorting bars that short circuit stages one and two of the steering wheel module high circuit and the steering wheel module low circuit whenever the connector gets disconnected. This process prevents the airbag from deploying unnecessarily.
When your car's inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) permits current to enter the driver deployment loop, it prompts the steering wheel airbag to deploy. This should only happen when you experience a serious enough frontal crash.

How much will it cost to diagnose?

Expect to pay between $75 and $150 to have a mechanic diagnose engine code B0022. This is the typical hourly rate at an auto repair shop, and diagnosing the B0022 DTC usually requires one hour of labor.
Note that diagnosis time and labor rates may vary among shops and depending on your car's make, model, and engine type.

What can cause the B0022 engine code?

This code is usually the result of something malfunctioning in your car's driver frontal deployment loop. Potential issues include:
  • Defective steering wheel module coil
  • Open or shorted steering wheel module coil harness
  • Poor electrical connection in steering wheel module coil harness
  • Faulty steering wheel module

Common symptoms of the B0022 engine code

A B0022 engine code should cause your
airbag indicator light
to illuminate. You may not notice any differences in how your car looks or drives, so if this light comes on, check it out right away.

How serious is the B0022 engine code? 

Even though your car may drive the same while showing a B0022 engine code, this DTC is extremely serious. If any of your airbags deploy at the wrong time while you're driving, you could face serious injuries or even death. 
Make sure to address this code as soon as it's diagnosed.

Can I fix the B0022 engine code myself?

Repairs to the driver deployment loop require a high skill level, so only fix the B0022 engine code if you are very comfortable working on cars. If you do fit this description, take the following steps to solve the problem:
  • Conduct a visual inspection of the connectors and wiring harness.
  • Look for faulty components.
  • Check for connector's pins that appear damaged (i.e., corroded, pushed out, broken, bent).

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