What does fault code B0013 mean?
The B0013 fault code, applicable to all car manufacturers, means “Passenger Knee Bolster Deployment Control (Subfault)“.
Background Information: Knee airbags are generally located at the bottom of the steering wheel and near the passenger-side glove compartment. Their function is to protect the driver’s and passenger’s knees and legs during a collision. More and more new cars are equipped with driver’s knee airbags, while the use of passenger knee airbags is still not widespread.
Common Causes of B0013
1.Most common causes of B0013 fault:
- Short circuit in the driver’s airbag wiring
- Contaminated or damaged airbag connector
- Faulty clock spring causing circuit contact
- Internal short circuit in the driver’s airbag module
- Incorrect steering wheel or airbag installation
2.Less common causes of B0013 fault:
- Internal SRS module failure
- Moisture intrusion into the steering column wiring
- Modified steering wheel components causing a short circuit
- Corroded wiring shielding or exposed copper wires
- Low battery voltage causing erroneous readings (rare)
Symptoms of B0013 fault:
- Airbag warning light: Continuously illuminated.
- Driver’s airbag disabled: Deployment will be suppressed until the fault is corrected.
- Intermittent airbag light: May change with steering wheel rotation.
- Warning may appear after steering wheel repair: The fault appeared after repair or modification.
- Other SRS codes: Often accompanied by clock spring or connector faults.
B0013 Fault Troubleshooting and Elimination Methods
Tools needed: OBD2 scanner, airbag safety multimeter adapter, wiring diagram, trim tools, Torx bits, and insulated gloves.
B0013 requires careful handling. Never test SRS circuits with a regular multimeter probe unless using an airbag safety adapter.
- Disable the SRS system: Disconnect the battery and wait the recommended time.
- Scan all SRS codes: Confirm B0013 and related codes.
- Check the driver’s airbag connector: Check for contamination, moisture, or bent pins.
- Check the clock spring: Damage here often leads to low-resistance short circuits.
- Measure circuit resistance: Use only airbag safety equipment.
- Check the wiring behind the steering wheel: Check for pinched or exposed wires.
- Wiggle test the wiring harness: Note any resistance drops in the real-time data (SRS safety conditions required).
- Inspect the airbag module: Check for swelling, damage, or moisture.
- Verify the SRS module’s power/ground: Ensure a stable voltage supply.
- Replace damaged components: Then reconnect the system, clear the fault codes, and retest.
Pro tip: If B0013 appears immediately after steering wheel removal or installation, the fault is almost always a connector or clock spring issue, not the airbag module itself.
Error code B0013 in different vehicles:
Buick B0013: Driver’s steering wheel airbag deployment ring, stage 2
Cadillac B0013: Driver’s steering wheel airbag deployment ring, stage 2
Pontiac B0013: Driver’s front deployment ring, stage 2
Saturn B0013: Driver’s front deployment ring, stage 2
GMC B0013: Driver’s steering wheel airbag deployment ring, stage 2
Chevrolet B0013: This error is common in Chevrolet Malibu, Cruze, Equinox, etc. It is usually caused by a problem with the connector under the front seat.
Ford B0013: For Ford Edge, Fusion, and 2014-2018 Ford F-150 models, error B0013 may occur due to poor contact in the knee shock chain or a broken wiring harness.
Opel B0013: In Opel Astra and Insignia models, this usually occurs due to damage after installing a warning system or repairing the dashboard.
Toyota B0013: In Toyota Camry and Corolla, this error may occur if wiring is damaged during center console repair or accessory installation.
BMW B0013: In BMW 3 Series and 5 Series, B0013 error is usually caused by a faulty SRS unit or a poor connection in the connector under the passenger seat.
B0013 Frequently Asked Questions
What to do if I encounter error code B0013?
Error code B0013 is related to the passenger knee airbag control chain. It affects safety and requires immediate diagnosis and troubleshooting.
Can a car with a B0013 fault still be driven?
Physically, the car can be driven, but it’s unsafe. Due to abnormal circuit resistance, the driver’s airbag may not deploy, or it may deploy incorrectly. Many vehicles will disable the entire SRS system until the B0013 problem is resolved. Immediate repair is strongly recommended.
Can I reset OBDII code B0013 without fixing the underlying problem?
It is not recommended to simply reset the code without addressing the underlying issue, as this may affect the proper functioning of the airbag system in the event of an accident.
Are there any safety precautions to take when dealing with OBDII code B0013?
When working on the airbag system related to this specification, always disconnect the vehicle battery and allow the capacitors to discharge to prevent the airbags from deploying unexpectedly.
How much does it cost to diagnose code B0013?
Diagnosing code B0013 typically requires 1 hour of labor. Rates vary depending on location, vehicle, and repair shop. Many shops charge between $80 and $150 per hour; dealerships and metropolitan areas may charge higher rates, while independent auto shops may charge lower rates.
How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0013?
The cost of repairing code B0013 will vary depending on the specific cause of the problem and the scope of repair required. On average, repair parts cost between $200 and $600, while labor costs between $100 and $300. This brings the total estimated cost to approximately $300 to $900. However, it’s important to note that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Can I fix OBDII code B0013 myself?
While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to handle wiring issues, it’s recommended to seek professional help to repair or replace the steering wheel airbag module to ensure safety and proper functioning.
Will installing a new steering wheel cause this fault code?
Yes. Damaged connectors or wiring errors during installation can trigger B0013.
Will disconnecting the battery clear B0013?
No. The SRS module retains the fault code until the fault is repaired and cleared with a scanning tool.
Will error B0013 appear after an accident?
Yes, especially if the knee airbag deploys or the SRS module is damaged.
Related OBD2 Error Codes for B0013:
B0010 – Driver’s Front Deployment Loop 1
B0011 – Passenger’s Front Second Stage Deployment Control
B0012 – Passenger Deployment Loop Line
B0014 – Drive Deployment Loop Resistance High
B0020 – Passenger Deployment Loop Line 1
B1001 – SRS ECU Configuration Error
Do not ignore SRS system errors. Even without obvious symptoms, it is important to repair the fault as soon as possible to ensure passenger safety in the event of an accident.