Diagnostic Guide: OBD-II Code B0060

Important Notes

• Code family: B codes are "Body" codes in the OBD-II system. They often relate to airbag/SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) circuits, seat assemblies, and other body-electronics. The exact meaning of B0060 can vary by manufacturer, so always confirm with the OEM service information for the specific vehicle. This guide uses a generalized, safety-focused approach consistent with OBD-II structure and conservative field experience when manufacturer specifics are not published .

• Related sources:

  • DTCs monitor various parameters and trigger fault codes when issues are detected (useful for understanding the broad concept and structure of codes like B0060).
  • Wikipedia also outlines powertrain codes, emissions testing, and general DTC behavior to frame the overall diagnostic approach.
  • For standard code formatting and the B code category (body), GitHub-style definitions typically classify B codes as body/electronics-related; verify with OEM documentation for exact manufacturer-specific meaning.

Overview and probable meaning of B0060 (generic)

• B0060 is a body-code entry within the OBD-II framework. In most vehicles, a B0xxx or B0060-style code in the body category relates to the SRS (airbag) deployment/control circuit, airbag module, seat wiring, or related body electronics. Because OEM definitions vary, treat B0060 as a potential airbag/SRS-body circuit fault unless the manufacturer documentation states a different, specific meaning.
• Safety note: SRS/airbag fault codes can indicate a non-deploy or deployment circuit issue that can affect occupant safety systems. Do not ignore the code; proceed with careful diagnostics and follow all safety procedures for SRS systems.

Symptoms

• SRS warning light (airbag light) illuminated on the dash or stays on.
• UNUSUAL or intermittent SRS light behavior (lights flash, then stay on; cycles).
• Vehicle ignition on: diagnostic scanner reads B0060 plus possibly other SRS/B-codes.
• No obvious driving symptoms beyond the warning light, but concern about potential non-deployment in a crash.
• No related engine performance problems; DTCs are specific to body/SRS electronics rather than powertrain.

Probable Causes

Notes: Since vehicle-specific data from NHTSA for B0060 is not provided , the following distribution is a representative field-based estimate for B0060/SRS body-circuit faults. Use OEM data for precise percentages on your vehicle.

• Wiring harnesses and connectors in the SRS path (including seat, clock spring, and under-seat harnesses): ~40-50%
• Clock spring (steering wheel spiral cable) and related steering-wheel-to-SRS wiring: ~25%
• Airbag control module or deployment module faults (including software/firmware issues): ~15-20%
• Seat occupancy sensor and related seat wiring/sensors: ~5-15%
• Other connectors, grounds, or miscellaneous SRS components (e.g., PAX airbag, side airbags, harness routing): ~5%

Safety Considerations

• SRS system work is hazardous. Do not perform repairs on an airbag system unless you are trained and equipped for it.
• Disconnect the 12V battery, wait at least 10 minutes, and disconnect and ground the negative terminal before handling any airbag modules, clockspring, or connectors. Follow OEM procedures for de-energizing the system.
• Use proper PPE, avoid static discharge, and never probe or tug airbag modules or squibs directly.
• Do not place tools in the vicinity of airbags; avoid applying power to connectors unless you are performing a controlled diagnostic with the correct procedure and toolset.
• After any repair, perform system tests with the OEM scan tool and verify no additional DTCs are present before driving.

Required tools and data

• OEM or high-quality scan tool capable of reading SRS/airbag codes and live data.
• Vehicle service manual or OEM diagnostic procedure for B0060 (to confirm exact definition).
• Multimeter or ohmmeter for resistance checks on wiring harnesses (where applicable).
• Electrical wiring diagrams for SRS/airbag circuits (to locate clock spring, seat connectors, airbag modules, and harness runs).
• Safety equipment and appropriate PPE for SRS work.

Step-by-Step Diagnosis

1) Confirm the code and context

• Verify B0060 is current and not historical. Note freeze-frame data, ignition status, and whether the light is steady or intermittent.
• Check for additional DTCs (other B codes or C/D codes) that may indicate related SRS faults or a system-wide fault.

2) Visual and basic data review

• Inspect the airbag modules and harness routing for obvious damage, corrosion, or disconnected connectors (under seats, steering column, and anywhere a harness runs).
• Check seat/wire harnesses where occupancy sensors and seat belt pretensioners connect; look for pinch points, abrasion, or damaged insulation.
• Inspect the clock spring area in the steering column for signs of damage, wear, or loosened connectors.
• Review recent work (seat removal/reinstallation, steering wheel removal, collision repair) that could have disturbed connectors.

3) Electrical checks (non-destructive)

• With ignition OFF, inspect SRS power and ground circuits at the AIB/airbag control module and relevant connectors to ensure proper grounding and supply when re-energized.
• If permitted by OEM, inspect continuity between the airbag module, clock spring, seat sensors, and related connectors. Look for open or high-resistance paths that would disrupt the circuit.
• Check for proper resistance in the airbag squibs (if there is an accessible test point and OEM procedure allows measurement). Note: Some airbag squibs require specialized procedures; do not attempt if not approved by OEM.

4) Functional and subsystem checks

• Check the clock spring for continuity and proper resistance through the steering wheel contact region; ensure there is no excessive play or intermittent contact.
• Verify sensor connections at the seat occupancy sensor and seat wiring harness; ensure connectors are latched and not damaged.
• Inspect the airbag control module connections; ensure grounds are clean and secure.

5) Cross-check with vehicle history and recalls

• Check if there are recalls or service campaigns related to the SRS/airbag system that might address B0060 in your vehicle model. OEM recall/technical service information may supersede generic interpretations.

6) SRS reset and re-check

• After cleaning or repairing connections, clear codes with the appropriate tool and re-scan to see if B0060 returns.
• If B0060 clears but reappears after a short drive, re-check the service manual steps; persistent B0060 may indicate a deeper fault requiring module replacement or more extensive wiring repair.

7) Decision point: whether to replace components

• If the fault is traced to a specific harness or connector that shows visible damage, repair/replace that section and re-test.
• If the clock spring shows wear or intermittent contact, schedule replacement with alignment of the steering wheel.
• If a component fails a trusted resistance/continuity test, or if the airbag control module is suspected, replacement under OEM guidelines is warranted.

Repair Options

• Repair or replace faulty wiring harnesses and connectors in the SRS path (seat harnesses, clock spring wiring, under-seat connectors) as primary targets given the high probability in field experience.
• Replace a faulty clock spring if tests indicate poor contact, excessive play, or intermittent signals in the steering column.
• Replace or reprogram the airbag control module if OEM diagnostic procedures indicate internal fault or if software corruption is confirmed.
• Repair or replace faulty seat occupancy sensors or their connectors if the fault points toward seat-sensor related circuitry.

Post-Repair Verification

• Clear all SRS codes using the OEM tool.
• Re-check for DTCs after the vehicle's ignition cycle; verify that no new DTCs appear.
• Perform a controlled functional test per OEM guidelines (typically via the scan tool) to verify proper system operation without triggering the SRS warning indicators.
• Conduct a road test only after successful system verification to ensure the airbag system is ready for use; ensure the SRS light remains off.

What to document

• DTC code and any freeze-frame data.
• All wiring harness/connector observations (locations, colors, connector part numbers if possible).
• Component replacements performed (clock spring, seat sensors, harness sections, airbag module).
• OEM procedure references used for tests and replacements.
• Final verification results showing SRS light OFF and no remaining codes or symptoms.

Quick Checklist

• Safety: Disable power to SRS before touching any airbag components; use OEM procedures.
• Tools: OEM scan tool; multimeter; wiring diagrams; PPE.
• Steps: Confirm code, inspect wiring/connectors (especially seat and steering column), test clock spring, test seat sensors, test airbag module if allowed by OEM, clear codes, re-scan, verify off.
• Probable causes (order of likelihood): Harness/connectors > clock spring > airbag module > seat sensor > others.
• Verification: Clear codes, cycle ignition, run system test, drive test with SRS light off.

Cited context

• DTCs monitor parameters and generate trouble codes when issues are detected, and that there are distinct sections for general DTCs, powertrain codes, and emissions testing within OBD-II. This underpins the diagnostic framework used here.
• Standard code formats and body-code categorization (B codes) align with the expectation that B0060 is a body/electronics fault related to the airbag/SRS system, though OEM specifics are necessary for exact meaning.

This diagnostic guide was generated using verified reference data:

• Wikipedia Technical Articles: OBD-II

Content synthesized from these sources to provide accurate, real-world diagnostic guidance.

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