HomeTrouble CodesB0078

B0078 — Third Row Right Seat Belt Pretensioner Deployment Control

Generic OBD-II · all makesBody

Code B0078 signals a fault in the deployment‑control circuit for the third‑row right seat‑belt pretensioner. The restraint control module has detected an abnormal voltage, resistance, or communication error in the circuit that activates the pretensioner during a crash.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed third‑row right pretensioner

The pretensioner’s internal squib or initiator has an open or shorted circuit, causing the control module to flag a deployment‑control fault.

2. Open or shorted wiring / connector in the pretensioner circuit

Damaged harness, corroded pins, or a disconnected connector between the pretensioner and the restraint control module creates an abnormal resistance reading.

3. Faulty restraint control module (RCM) driver for this circuit

The RCM’s output driver that supplies the deployment signal may be damaged, preventing proper voltage delivery to the pretensioner.

4. Corroded or loose connector at the RCM or pretensioner

Oxidation or mechanical looseness adds resistance, leading the RCM to detect a deployment‑control error.

5. Software / calibration issue in the RCM

An outdated or corrupted RCM firmware version can misinterpret normal circuit values as a fault; a reprogram may resolve it.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve all stored codes and freeze‑frame data with a scan tool.
  2. Visually inspect the third‑row right pretensioner wiring, connectors, and harness for damage, corrosion, or disconnection.
  3. Measure the resistance of the pretensioner circuit (typically 1.5‑3 Ω) at the RCM connector; compare to manufacturer specifications.
  4. Check continuity and voltage supply from the RCM to the pretensioner while the system is powered.
  5. Test the RCM output driver for the pretensioner circuit using a known‑good pretensioner or a simulation tool.
  6. If all hardware checks pass, verify RCM software version and apply any available updates or reprogramming.

Code facts & related codes

SystemBody
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Do I need to replace the engine control module (PCM) for this code?

No. B0078 is a restraint‑system code handled by the restraint control module; the PCM is not involved in pretensioner deployment control.

Can a simple connector cleaning fix the problem?

Yes. Corroded or loose connectors are a common cause; cleaning and reseating them often restores proper circuit resistance and clears the code.

Is the pretensioner itself usually the failed component?

The pretensioner is the most likely failure point, but wiring and RCM driver faults occur nearly as often; systematic testing is required before replacement.

Will the airbag warning light turn off automatically after repair?

The light will extinguish once the fault is corrected and the code is cleared with a scan tool; it does not self‑clear on most vehicles.