Passenger Seat Occupant Detection Sensor Circuit Low
Indicates a fault with the passenger seat occupant detection system.
Heads up: this code wasn't in our hand-written library yet, so DiagCoach AI built this page on the fly. Double-check critical specs against service info before condemning parts.
What it means (plain English)
The car has a sensor under the passenger seat that detects if someone is sitting there. If it doesn't work right, the system thinks the seat is empty when it’s not, which can prevent the airbags from deploying properly in an accident.
What the computer is actually seeing
The vehicle’s computer looks for a resistance value between 0.5 to 2.5 ohms from the occupant detection system. If it sees below 0.5 ohms, it triggers this code.
What a healthy reading looks like
Resistance should be between 0.5 to 2.5 ohms when the seat is occupied. If the seat is unoccupied, it could vary higher than 5 ohms or open circuit.
Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way
Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.
- 11. Inspect the wiring and connectors under the passenger seat for any visible damage or disconnections. If damaged, repair or replace as needed. Decision: If wiring is good, proceed to Step 2.
- 22. Check the resistance of the passenger seat occupant detection sensor using a multimeter. Expected resistance is 0.5 to 2.5 ohms with an occupant present. Decision: If resistance is out of range, replace the sensor. If in range, proceed to Step 3.
- 33. Clear the code and road test the vehicle. Monitor for the code to return. Decision: If code returns, consider replacing the seat control module.
Common causes
- Faulty occupant detection sensor
- Disconnected or damaged wiring harness
- Faulty seat control module
- Moisture or dirt interference at the connector
Typical repair cost
$$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
You can drive the vehicle, but the airbag may not deploy correctly in an accident, so it’s best to fix it soon.
Will this code come back after I clear it?
If the underlying issue isn't fixed, yes, the code will likely return.
Why does this code sometimes pair with others?
Multiple codes may indicate issues with related systems; in this case, they're all part of the seat and safety system's wiring or components.
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